New Balance 996 JP Size US8.5 Only tried on indoors. The tag has been removed, but all accessories are included. Special Made in Japan version The "996," one of New Balance's representative models, was born in 1988 as a road running shoe. This year marks its 35th anniversary. Due to its comfort and design, it has become a staple model that is worn not only in running scenes but also in everyday life, and has been loved for a long time. To commemorate this special 35th anniversary, a special Made in Japan "M996JP" has been created, meticulously finished by hand by craftsmen at the workshop of M.Lab (Mimura Lab), which has a global partnership with New Balance. Manufactured at M.Lab (Mimura Lab, located in Kakogawa City, Hyogo Prefecture), which entered into a global partnership with New Balance in 2018. M.Lab, which has been making performance shoes for renowned athletes, has been responsible for the production of Made in Japan New Balance products, starting with the "M1300JPJ" in 2020, followed by the golf shoes "MG1300JP" in 2021, and the "MS327" in 2022. This "M996JP" is also a special "996" manufactured entirely by hand, utilizing the outstanding craftsmanship of M.Lab (Mimura Lab) craftsmen honed in the production of performance shoes, including cutting and sewing the leather, lasting the leather to fit the last, and bonding the sole and upper. Each part is carefully sewn by the skilled hands of the craftsmen, achieving beauty and delicacy. Furthermore, the three-dimensional effect that can only be achieved by hand, faithful to the last, also contributes to the fit when worn. The upper uses domestically produced pigskin suede with a brushed texture, resulting in a soft and textured finish. The lining inside the shoes uses "COOLMAX," a functional material that evaporates sweat and moisture to the outside of the fabric, providing comfort. A unique Made in Japan 996 has been completed, combining high-quality materials, traditional techniques, and technology.