New Balance 480

Are you ready to revolutionise your footwear? Then, explore the exciting New Balance 480 range at JD Sports Australia. We stock the latest releases, available in different sizes and colours, so you can stay on top of your fashion game. What are you waiting for, sneakerhead? Shop now!

The Story of the New Balance 480

The first pairs of New Balance 480s dropped in 1983, aiming to be the next court-changing basketball shoes. Before this pivotal release, the Boston-based brand had stuck to creating running shoes—which they were very good at—but their design team had no intention of being complacent; they were as ambitious as they were innovative.

Fast forward past the development cycle, and we see the NB 480 worn by the likes of James Worthy of the Los Angeles Lakers and M.L. Carr of the Boston Celtics—true NBA celebrities. The original models were available in both Hi and Lo styles, emphasising performance and appearance equally. Unfortunately, the trainer was benched until 2021, one year after the 550 (another basketball shoe, whose design inspiration came from the 480).

Given the decades-long legacy of the 480, we at JD Sports AU think that the line doesn’t get enough attention. These retro-style sneakers continue to provide excellent value across the board, with comfortable EVA soles, padded tongues and ankle collars, and stylish uppers made from premium leather and synthetic materials. When admiring the uppers, you’ll see clean lines, strong colour blocking, and the bold ‘N’ logo on the sides—features that make the collection instantly recognisable and undeniably iconic.