Celebrating 4 decades of innovative technology,  the New Balance 990 is one of the best running shoes to ever exist in the sneaker market. First introduced in 1982, the 990 silhouette was lauded for its practicality, comfort and unique craftsmanship-withstanding core values of the brand that continues to solidify its’ legendary status. Even Though, the fit was billed with a hefty price tag, becoming some of the most expensive running shoes at the time, their commitment to quality was simply unrivalled- selling over 10 times more pairs than the 5,000 expected in the shoe’s debut year.

After many years of innovation, it was 2016 that  marked the release of the 4th generation of the 990’s- introducing the 990v4- as it is most commonly known as today. Idiosyncratic in its seams, the 990v4 model swapped its three part EVA midsole, leather upper and urethane collar for a newly updated ENCAP Midsole, a breathathable upper and a foam collar. This year’s highly anticipated refresh of the 990v4 ‘Grey’ model opts for Jim Davis’ iconic intrinsic design, following a ‘OG’ greyscale colour up. 

The fit arrives in a nostalgic fashion, sailing hues of grey suede on the upper, while airy mesh underlays keeps things breathable. Iconic ‘N’ branding coats the medial side walls in true New Balance fashion with tagged branding indulging the tongue and counter heel. The iconic fit further features crisp white laces for a snug fit that matches the cushioning ENCAP midsole. A foam urethane collar adds comfortability, while the underfoot sits on a black  outsole with combined ABZORB cushioning providing grippy traction to every step.     

Following the release of the newest rendition of the New Balance 990v4 range, we continue our narrative with the House of St. Barnabas. The fourth silhouette of the infamous 990 range showcases practicality, ability and groundbreaking technology. The same integrity and skill that can also be found at House of St. Barnabas. Offering some of the most innovative vocational courses, House of St. Barnabas has played an instrumental part in shaping the future careers of many. 

Enrolling in their first baristerie course, was stay at home mum Jane, we follow her cordial journey into her new found passion for baristerie.  

Footpatrol: Morning Jane, lovely to see you today thanks for having us here today, I just wanted to start off the interview by saying, how are you?

Jane: I am good, very good. 

FP: Could you tell us a little about your role within the House of St Barnabas?

Jane: I came here to study baristerie, so it was more to do with making coffee and cocktails as well. 

FP: Amazing, so how did your journey begin? 

Jane: I have been a stay at home mum for like 5 years and I met a group called Paddington Trust and they introduced me to House of St Barnabas for training and that’s how my journey started. 

FP: How have you found it so far?

Jane: It has been amazing! I mean everybody here has been lovely especially with my fellow colleagues and participants, we were more an less like a family here, we had each other’s back. From the first day we met, we clicked instantly so it’s been amazing. 

FP: What was it like being part of the course? And could you give us a little walkthrough of how it’s done.

Jane: Since being a stay at home mum, coming here gave me the motivation to get back to work and I didn’t know anything about baristerie but since I started it is something that I loved and that I really wanted to learn more about. So from now on, that is what I am going to do after we have graduated, that is more and less what I want to do.

FP: How do you feel now having completed the course?

Jane: It has been sad because it came round so quickly but it has been amazing, I mean I am leaving here with lots of things we can do, they gave us the starting point for us to look for work. When talking with all my fellow participants, everybody is going around looking for jobs, so yeah it has been amazing. 

FP: So glad to hear, it is such a good opportunity for people.

Jane: Yes! 

FP:  If there is one thing you would like to say to people that will further encourage their support, what would it be?

Jane: I keep saying, if there were more places like House of St Barnabas, I don’t think people would stay at home because the warmth they give you when you come here is like if you have doubt in your mind, you feel like you can do it. There are some places where you go somewhere that you feel like you instantly fit in or you don’t, here’s one place where every penny counts. If there were more St Barnabas’ around in London, I think people would go far. 

FP: Thank you so much, just a last question, what advice would you give to people that would start the course?

Jane: That they should just be themselves and enjoy, I mean it is a lovely ride, people here are friendly, just be yourself and open with everybody and you’ll fit right in. 

Launching in-store and online on Friday 14th January (Available online from 08:00AM GMT), priced at £230.