To the uninitiated, “United Arrows” may not mean much, but for savvy sneaker collectors, especially those with an affinity for New Balance, the two words are excitement-stirring.
Recently, the highly-lauded Japanese retailer unveiled the latest chapter in its years-long partnership with the Boston-based institution. And while the upcoming New Balance 2002R serves as the boutique’s first go at the growing-in-popularity model, United Arrows has taken the opportunity to revisit one of its most iconic color palettes. In 2009, Kanye West was pictured wearing a pair of what turned out to be the New Balance 997.5, which led countless netizens to hunt down the relatively obscure sneaker. Reminiscent of said 13-year-old collaboration, United Arrows’ 2002R indulges in an understated overall look that allows for the pink and purple accents that appear all throughout the upper to stand out that much more. A gradient application of the two contrasting tones lands on profile “N” logos, with the 860v2’s sole unit underfoot also favoring some of the heritage-inspired touches.
Enjoy product shots of the pair ahead, and find the latest collaboration exclusively via the United Arrows webstore, currently available for pre-order.
For more form under the NB umbrella, check out the New Balance 990v6 ahead of its official debut.