William J. Riley: The Visionary Behind New Balance

The story of New Balance begins with William J. Riley, an English immigrant whose innovative approach to footwear design would revolutionize the industry. His observation of chickens in his yard would lead to a groundbreaking insight about balance and support, ultimately creating one of the world's most respected athletic footwear companies.

The Origins of Innovation

In 1906, Riley established the New Balance Arch Support Company in Boston, Massachusetts. His inspiration came from watching chickens in his yard, noting how their three-clawed feet created perfect balance. This observation led to his first product: a flexible arch support with three support points, designed to provide greater balance and comfort for people who spent long hours standing at work.

From Arch Supports to Athletic Footwear

Riley's early focus was on developing supportive footwear solutions for people who needed them most - workers who spent their days on their feet. His arch supports gained popularity among police officers, waiters, and factory workers. The company's reputation for quality and comfort grew steadily, setting the foundation for what would become a global athletic footwear brand.

Innovation and Craftsmanship

What set Riley's approach apart was his commitment to solving real problems through innovative design. He believed that better support and fit could enhance performance and comfort. This philosophy led to the development of different width options in footwear, a revolutionary concept at the time that remains a hallmark of New Balance shoes today.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Riley's influence extended beyond just creating comfortable shoes. His emphasis on solving problems through innovative design established New Balance's reputation for prioritizing function over fashion. This approach would later influence the entire athletic footwear industry, as other manufacturers began to focus more on performance features rather than just aesthetics.

The company's commitment to domestic manufacturing, another of Riley's principles, has become increasingly significant in an era of globalized production. New Balance maintains domestic manufacturing facilities, continuing Riley's tradition of local craftsmanship and quality control.

Enduring Influence and Future

Though William Riley sold the company to his daughter and son-in-law in 1956, his founding principles continue to guide New Balance today. The company's focus on width options, commitment to solving real athletic needs, and dedication to quality manufacturing remain core values.

More than just a businessman, William Riley was a pioneer who understood that successful footwear design must begin with understanding human biomechanics. His legacy lives on through New Balance's continued commitment to innovation, quality, and the perfect balance of form and function. The company's evolution from a small arch support business to a global athletic footwear brand proves that solving real problems with genuine innovation creates lasting success.