Quiet Luxury, UK-Built: The New Balance 991v1 “Chocolate Plum”

In the UK, the 991 has always carried weight. A big silhouette for the core NB heads, worn by those who value build quality as well as that NB hype. This Chocolate Plum release leans fully into that reputation. A reminder that Made in UK pairs don’t need loud colours and staple colours like these go the job any season of the year.

Chocolate Plum sits deep and rich across the overlays, paired with warm Caramel Café leather through the base. Each panel carries its own texture, which stops the darker tones from feeling flat. Beige underlays break up the palette just enough, adding separation without stealing focus.

Leather dominates the upper. The tongue and heel window echo the accent tones, while a white leather sockliner brings a clean contrast inside. Underfoot, a white midsole and brown outsole ground the design.

Classic Cushioning, No Gimmicks: Feel Every Step Grounded

While it started as a performance runner, the M991LB1 is strictly intended for lifestyle . Underfoot, the 991v1 remains true to its technical roots. It utilizes the classic ENCAP midsole, a soft core of EVA encapsulated within a tough polyurethane rim paired with visible ABZORB pods in both the heel and forefoot. Don’t expect “cloud-like” mushiness. The ride is firm, stable, and highly supportive and feels great underfoot.

Produced at the Flimby factory in Cumbria, this model keeps its original shape intact. It looks and feels like a shoe made to last. Dropping on February 5th, the New Balance Made in UK M991v1 “Chocolate Plum” is release that will age like a fine wine.