words // Steve Jaconetta
Over the past five years, New Balance has collaborated with just about everyone. Easily over 100 collabo’s were made with the help of boutiques, designers and retailers that released in various models and colorways. Looking back, we picked our ten favorites, listed below.
10. Burn Rubber x New Balance 580 ‘Argyle’ (2010)
Detroit-based Burn Rubber was the first US-based retailer to collaborate with the New Balance America team on the MT580. Mainly released in Asia with various collaborators, this grey-based pair was the beginning of things to come for the New Balance 580.
9. PHANTACi x New Balance 580 ‘Green Hornet’ (2011)
Released in extremely limited fashion, 12 pairs to be exact, this ‘Green Hornet’ themed New Balance 580 was executed perfectly by Taipei-based streetwear retailer PHANTACi. Featuring a black-based upper with green accents finished off by a ‘masked’ lace lock, a dual-branded hang tag and insoles.
8. size? x Staple Design x New Balance 577 ‘Black Piegon’ (2012)
A flip on the classic ‘Pigeon’ color scheme, made famous by Jeff Staple. The ‘Black Piegon’ New Balance 577 delivered on all levels. Featuring a black-based honeycomb ripstop and premium leather upper. Throw in UK-based retailer size? in the mix and you have a win-win.
7. Sneaker Freaker x New Balance 998 ‘Tassie Devil’ (2012)
Made in celebration of their 10th Anniversary, Sneaker Freaker teamed up with New Balance on this Tasmanian devil-inspired edition of the 998. With its purple, black and white color combination along with speckles and teeth on the midsole, the ‘Tassie Devil’ became an instant classic amongst New Balance lovers.
6. Dr. Zulu x Shelflife x New Balance 574 ‘City of Gold’ (2014)
Inspired by the city of Johannesburg, which is known for its gold trade. The ‘City of Gold’ New Balance 574 hits on all levels. Designed by native artist Dr. Zulu and South Africa’s premier sneaker boutique, Shelflife. The premium black and grey upper with gold accents along with removable and interchangeable velcro ‘N’ logos for some added flare.
5. Concepts x New Balance 998 ‘C-Note’ (2013)
Boston-based boutique, Concepts never disappoints when it comes to their collabo’s. Case and point, this ‘C-Note’ New Balance 998. Inspired by the new United States $100 bill, from its unique use of colors and materials, this pair hit the nail on the head, so-to-speak.
4. Concepts x New Balance 999 ‘Seal’ (2012)
Another great collaboration between Concepts and New Balance. The ‘Seal’ 999 draws inspiration from Navy Seals. The morse code on the tongue and topography graphic liner really helped to tie everything together.
3. West NYC x New Balance 580 ‘Alpine Guide’ (2012)
New Balance joined forces with West NYC for this exclusive colorway of the 580. Known as the ‘Alpine Guide’ edition, inspired by bright color palettes 90's outdoor and skiing apparel. The combination of purple, teal and black accents throughout this grey-based pair add the extra pop needed to make them a must-have.
2. Ronnie Fieg x New Balance 1600 ‘Daytona’ (2013)
Named one of the best shoes of the year in 2013, it’s no surprise to see this Ronnie Fieg x New Balance 1600 near the top of this list. Known as the ‘Daytona’ edition, the blend of sandy tan perforated leathers and accents in navy blue and pink tell the tale of Ronnie's childhood trips to Daytona Beach, FL.
1. Concepts x New Balance 999 ‘Kennedy’ (2011)
While it is hard to choose a favorite, only a few specific pairs come in to play. After a little debate, it was clear that this Concepts x New Balance collaboration takes the #1 spot. This ‘Kennedy’ edition hits on all levels, from its rich New England nautical traditions to its unique combination of materials and colors, it didn’t hurt that this pair was also named one of the best releases of 2011.
