Aaron Hope 
As if taking inspiration from candy bits known for their use of the spectrum weren’t enough, New Balance has turned to what may be *the* authority in colour systems for another 996 runner. There are two 996s here actually, both sporting palettes from the one and only Pantone.
Both pairs use white as a base, but pics from Random Ramblings shows how each achieves a unique result. What we’d casually refer to as the “white pair” takes an upper of white patent leather and nylon and adds deeply saturated yet contemporary shades of the primary colours to the eyelets, lining, heel and rear midsole. As we see above, both pairs feature a pallate of six colours on the heel and tongue tag, but the “red pair” is quite different.
A wonderful gradient effect is achieved by working from brick red to white through pink side panels. The rear quarter/heel is reminiscent of carbon fibre, but a closer look reveals textured patent leather. The “white pair” certainly has a springtime vibe and the “red pair” would be perfect for Valentine’s Day, so the Spring/Q1 2009 release seems appropriate. Be sure to check Sneaker News for more pictures and release date, once it solidifies.
More photos below…
