Jovani Hernandez 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.
WHERE TO BUY
New Balance 550 "Triple Black"
US 08/19/2022 Friday
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| Retailer | Release type | Status |
|---|---|---|
| New Balance US | Standard | Check Site |
Europe 03/31/2022 Thursday
| Retailer | Release type | Status |
|---|---|---|
| END. | Raffle | Check Site |
US 03/23/2022 Wednesday
| Retailer | Release type | Status |
|---|---|---|
| New Balance US | Standard | Check Site |
Asia 02/09/2022 Wednesday
| Retailer | Release type | Status |
|---|---|---|
| UpThere | Standard | Check Site |
Images: Up There Store
