What does the number on new balance tenis shoes mean?

The number on new balance shoes is usually the model number. The numerals are sometimes stitched or embroidered on the outside, but also you will find the full model name on the inside of the shoe, usually on the back of the tongue. It might read 'MR768ST' (also giving the size/width information): The first one or two letters usually represent the gender and type, in this case 'MR' means 'Men's Running' (a single 'M' also means 'Men's Running'), the succeeding numerical digits are the model number and the last one or two letters describe the style or the color scheme. 'ST' in this case just generically refers to "Stability" since this model is a stability shoe and this style is the main men's color scheme for this model. Another example would be the men's tennis model 'MC654WN'. The 'MC' stands for 'Men's Court'. It's a men's tennis shoe. Then the '654' is the model number and the 'WN' stands for the color/style, 'White + Navy'.

In general, the higher the numerical number, the more advanced technologies and features you will find on shoe. 800/900 thru 1200 series are usually the better shoes which are also more expensive than the lower end 500/600/700 series.