Compare The New 1300jp With A Pair Of Ogs

There is no denying the pure love that the crew from Up There Store have for New Balance. The leading source of all the latest and greatest NB heat in Melbourne, Up There store will be releasing the retro NB1300 JP when it lands March 28, but with this being such a significant release on release calendar, the UT crew  have scoured to globe on a quest to provide you with the most comprehensive comparison possible of this sneaker ahead of its return. Check out the full breakdown below.

Introduced into New Balance's line in 1984 some 31 years ago, the 1300 set (at the time) a benchmark for not only running performance, but it also set the standards for use of quality materials, and more importantly New Balance's dedication to craftsmanship. It carried a slew of features such as a Vibram sole unit, plastic heel stabiliser and the highest quality suedes and leathers that New Balance could source. Underneath all of this sat one of New Balances most innovative and important technologies, 'ENCAP'. This sole unit was the epitome of shock absorbing technology, combining an EVA foam core with a PVA sole unit to complete the 1300 silhouette and set the bar for its counterparts all these years later. With the 1300 representing not only the peak of footwear performance, but heritage, quality and craftsmanship, the original 1300 silhouette gained a heavy following in Japan and with this, it gained the M1300J/JP moniker that we've come to know and love.

Now fast track 31 years later and here we are, bringing the 1300 back to life with its latest reissue and all of its finite details from yesteryear with the M1300JP2. To ring in this latest reissue, we've scoured near and far for a fresh and unworn pair of original 1300's from their first release back in 1984 to give you a comparative look at the release both now and then – and from all regards it's as close as any true-head could ask for. Keep in mind any 31 year old shoe will show come signs of wear and tear, and most obviously here, the oxidisation of the upper has changed its colour slightly, but in the same vein, what is a pair of shoes without some character.

The M1300JP2 will be hitting shelves Saturday the 28th of March at the Level 1/15 McKillop Street store. Remaining pairs will be available in the online store from 12pm the same day. Sizes US8 through to US13 including half sizes will be available for $350.00 AUD.

- Originally Published March 3rd, 2015.