New Balance Launches Made in USA 1300JP 2025

The iconic 1300JP returns in 2025 as New Balance celebrating sneaker heritage.

Every five years, New Balance reawakens a legend. For 2025, the brand celebrates both its heritage and its future with the return of the Made in USA 1300JP—a sneaker that stands as a shining example of craftsmanship, innovation, and global sneaker culture. This year’s release, on May 29, coincides with New Balance’s annual “Grey Days” celebration, amplifying the excitement around one of the most coveted silhouettes in the brand’s storied archive.

“The 1300JP is a shoe like no other, an emblem of the soul of New Balance, that is prized by collectors and appreciators around the globe. Even before joining New Balance myself 34 years ago, I was inspired by my father’s work with the brand on the innovative sole design for the original 1300JP. This legacy model has been a constant throughout my career at New Balance, from spending years perfecting the first reissue, to working diligently on each subsequent launch to evolve the style in subtle ways while remaining true to its roots. With 2025’s launch we are excited to continue the 1300JP’s legacy, showcasing the design’s timeless appeal to loyal fans and a new generation,” Shinichi Kubota, Vice President, New Balance Japan, said.

A Five-Year Tradition Born from Japanese Reverence

First launched in 1985, the original 1300 shattered expectations with its blend of technological innovation and premium materials. The shoe’s full-length ENCAP cushioning and luxurious nubuck and mesh construction set a new standard for what a running shoe could be, both in performance and price. While its $130 price tag was unprecedented at the time, the 1300 quickly found a passionate following—particularly in Japan, where sneaker enthusiasts recognized and celebrated its craftsmanship.

It was this cult-like devotion that prompted New Balance to reissue the 1300JP in 1995, exclusively for the Japanese market. Since then, the 1300JP has been released globally every five years, with each drop eagerly anticipated by collectors and style connoisseurs alike.

Meticulous Craftsmanship, Timeless Appeal

The 2025 Made in USA 1300JP is crafted at New Balance’s Skowhegan, Maine facility, where a team of artisans ensures every detail meets the highest standards. The sneaker features premium nubuck overlays, breathable mesh panels, and the iconic full-length ENCAP midsole—delivering both comfort and durability. The beloved Steel Blue colorway returns, complemented by white leather lining and vintage-inspired packaging that nods to the original 1985 release.

This year’s edition is not just a sneaker; it’s a celebration of New Balance’s enduring ethos: quality craftsmanship, timeless design, and fearless independence. As part of Grey Days, the 1300JP release anchors a month-long tribute to the brand’s signature color, with special product drops, events, and storytelling content.

Release Information

• Release Date: May 29, 2025

• Price: $330 USD

• Availability: NewBalance.com, select wholesale partners, and New Balance flagship stores worldwide

• Edition: Extremely limited, released once every five years

A Collector’s Grail and a Cultural Icon

The 1300JP’s legacy is built on more than just rarity. Its story is woven into the fabric of sneaker history, from its groundbreaking debut to its role in shaping global tastes. As Brian Lynn, Global Vice President of Lifestyle, said:

“Whether you’re new to the brand or a longtime loyalist, Grey embodies the promise of everything that sets New Balance apart. The symbolism of Grey has remained central to the brand for decades, and Grey Days 2025 showcases its diverse appeal.”

For those who value authenticity, heritage, and the quiet power of timeless design, the 1300JP remains a benchmark—an icon that continues to inspire, five years at a time.