Since its 2008 debut, the New Balance 993 model has quietly cemented itself as a modern classic, balancing distinctive chunky dad-shoe proportions with a sleek sensibility that keeps it relevant year after year. Now, the Boston-based brand is honoring the silhouette with the aptly-named Heritage Collection, featuring a trio of earth-toned iterations that remind us why this silhouette deserves its cult following.
THE STORIED LEGACY
The 993 holds a pivotal place in New Balance’s iconic 99X family. Introduced as the tenth generation of the series that began with the groundbreaking 990 back in 1982, the 993 took the DNA of its predecessors (particularly the 991 and its predecessor the 992) and streamlined the formula.
Where the original 990 was marketed as “990 out of 1000” to highlight its near-perfect execution, the 993 carried that tradition forward while focusing on a more minimalist approach with maximum comfort. It became particularly emblematic when seen consistently on the feet of tech visionary Steve Jobs, who famously paired them with his signature black turtleneck and jeans uniform.
AMERICAN CRAFTSMANSHIP
What truly separates these kicks from the overcrowded sneaker market is New Balance’s famous “Made in USA” tag, which goes way beyond marketing fluff. New Balance proudly claims that each pair contains 70% or more domestic value, with production happening at their American facilities. The Heritage Collection emphasizes this legacy with understated “USA” branding on the tongue and heel, while “Heritage Collection” appears on the footbed. This Stateside production also explains the premium price tag, but the quality difference is immediately apparent in the hand-selected materials and construction detail.
NEUTRAL TERRITORY
For the Heritage editions of the 993, New Balance has kept things appropriately understated with three colorways that all share gray upper accents and ABZORB midsoles. Leading the pack is “Reflection,” a light gray version closest to the brand’s classic grayscale. Meanwhile, the streetwear-friendly “Incense” variant offers a sophisticated beige alternative but “Covert Green,” my personal favorite here, provides an earthier olive option for those just wanting a splash of color in their wardrobe. Each version gets elevated with premium pigskin suede overlays that create a textural contrast with the breathable mesh base.
TECH UNDER THE HOOD
Like past 993 models, the special edition sneaker is packed with solid performance tech that makes it a genuinely comfortable daily driver. The ABZORB midsole cushioning (fine-tuned specifically for the 993) delivers impressive impact absorption through both cushioning and compression resistance, while the ACTEVA cushioning provides flexible support. On the outsole’s heel area, the N-durance rubber compound improves durability where you’d typically experience the first signs of wear. And yes, those reflective accents are functional too, catching light when you’re out after dark.
SPEC SHEET
Model: New Balance Made in USA 993 Heritage Collection
Uppers: Pig suede overlays with breathable mesh base
Midsole: ABZORB + ACTEVA cushioning technologies
Outsole: Full-length rubber with Ndurance rubber heel
Colorways: Reflection/Gray, Incense/Gray, Covert Green/Gray
Limited Edition: Unspecified
PRICING & AVAILABILITY
The New Balance 993 Heritage Collection is available now directly through New Balance’s website for $200 per pair, just like the regular 993 models. It’s unclear if these are specifically limited editions but given the cult status of the 993, don’t expect them to sit on digital shelves for long.
Recap
New Balance Made in USA 993 Heritage Collection
New Balance honors the cult status of the 993 with a new Heritage Collection edition, featuring three neutral colorways.
