I just received this and I reside in the UK (only open to US runners).
NEW BALANCE NEEDS YOU FOR OUR WEAR TEST PROGRAM.
The idea behind our Wear Test Program is pretty simple: We want to make shoes and apparel that fit comfortably and perform exceptionally well under real-life conditions. So when developing new models, we ask real athletes like you to "road test" our products and give us your feedback. Our Research and Development team will take your input and use it to make the shoe or garment the best it can be before launching it.
Becoming a New Balance Wear Tester works like this: We'll ask for some information and then enter you into a database so we can contact you when we need you. Being a Wear Tester does involve some paperwork, so you'll probably wear out a few pencils before you wear out the shoes. (Please note: The program is open to U.S. residents only.)
TESTING BY THE NUMBERS:
WEAR TEST PROGRAM FACTS & FIGURES
Even though volunteer testers may never set foot in a lab, they are a crucial part of research and development at New Balance. Here are a few facts about the Wear Test Program and how it works:
· New Balance conducts approximately 1,000 separate wear tests each year, involving just over 10,000 pairs of shoes.
· One New Balance loyalist recently completed 8,000 consecutive days of running, totaling 43,000 miles, many of them in New Balance test shoes!
· When the testing period is done, the shoes are returned to New Balance where they are logged and then evaluated in four key areas: durability, fit, performance and appearance. Any defective shoes are analyzed further by a total of eight different departments at New Balance.
Go to NB website for more info.