Like any true Manhattanite, my 4-year-old daughter Sadie is a bit shoe-obsessed.  And when it comes to footwear, Sadie demands bright hues and snazzy styles that show off her colorful personality.  So you can imagine Sadie's delight when we were invited to a sneak preview of New Balance's Fall 2012 children's shoe lineup, which features an array of bright, exciting colors and super snazzy new styles that completely struck Sadie's fancy. 

I've long been a fan of New Balance shoes.  Indeed, my 992s are the most comfortable sneakers I've ever owned.  I hadn't yet thought to purchase New Balance shoes for Sadie but having seen the Fall 2012 lineup, I now know that New Balance will absolutely be a part of Sadie's back-to-school footwear repertoire.  This Fall, New Balance will introduce new kids offerings designed to provide the support and comfort that parents seek, in a colorful, exciting package that kids will love.  For example, the New Balance 3090 Ionix provides lightweight support and a molecule-inspired design, perfect for the active kid who wants to stand out.  A futuristic IMEVA midsole provides cushioning and a durable non-marking outsole ensures traction.  The Ionix are particularly cool because they are available in styles for both girls and boys, and look equally sleek no matter who's wearing them.

The New Balance 680 will keep kids entertained and moving with NB TetraGel technology, a colorful gel that flows as kids play.  Offered in a black/flame version and a hot pink/rainbow version, kids will love this shoe that features a leather and mesh upper for support and breathability and a non-marking outsole.  Then there's the New Balance Minimus 20v2, available for both kids and infants, and ideal for strengthening feet while providing protection and freedom of movement. This minimal shoe features a 4mm heel to toe drop, a lightweight synthetic and mesh upper for  breathability and support and is equipped with a lugged outsole for traction and durability.

Although we loved each and every New Balance sneaker we saw at the event, our hands-down (or should I say feet-down?) favorite was the New Balance 689, a running shoe designed just for kids and sporting pink, silver and rainbow-colored details as well as rainbow-colored laces.  Sadie of course went bananas when the New Balance team generously sent her her very own pair of 689s after the event, and she cannot wait to wear them to school this Fall!  Even my 3-month-old son Ben was able to get in on the New Balance action, as the company makes a line of shoes especially for infants.  And I must say, Ben is looking quite snazzy in his New Balance crib shoes! 

All New Balance kids shoes are available in multiple widths and feature the quality construction for which New Balance is renowned.  For more information, visit www.newbalance.com.