The New Balance 550 Appears In A Completely Blacked-Out Colorway

You don’t have to know the full history of the New Balance 550 to understand that it’s currently having a “moment.” Scheduled to arrive in collaborative styles by Comme des Garçons Homme (and possibly Joe Freshgoods) throughout 2022, Steven Smith’s 1989 design has maintained the sneaker world’s attention via a compelling series of general releases, with the latest arriving in the form of the model’s first all-“Black” ensemble.

A relic of the Boston-based brand’s 20th century foray into basketball, the New Balance 550 has predominantly favored two-tone colorways rooted in the sport’s “golden age”. The newly-surfaced stealthy ensemble, then, serves as a refreshing departure from retro flair while offering a much more versatile, fashionable option. The suede accents that’ve graced Aimé Leon Dore‘s collaborations are abandoned for a mostly smooth leather build throughout the upper; mesh maintains its stronghold on the tongue and collar area.

Branding hits across the 33-year-old New Balance silhouette opt for a slightly-lighter shade of “Black,” as does part of the made-for-basketball sole unit underfoot. EVA foam midsoles feature a textured finish that injects further contrast to the pair, despite its monochromatic look, while stability clips on which the 550 sits proffers a “smokey” aesthetic. The remainder of the “NON-MARKING SOLE” reverts to a “Triple-Back” colorway that’ll surely ame the shoes a go-to option for old and new fans alike.

Enjoy product shots of the pair here below, courtesy of Melbourne, Australia’s Up There Store, and anticipate a NewBalance.com launch (hopefully) sometime before the year ends.

For more more from the North American footwear specialist, check out the New Balance 2002R.

Images: Up There Store