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The New Balance 550 launched in the late 1980s, but over the past three years has experienced an epic surge in popularity. This revival has been powered by collaborations, limited drops and even crisp general releases, and its status as a wardrobe staple has catapulted the model into the footwear hall of fame.
Now known as the staple sneaker, here’s why you need to add the NB550 to your 2022 rotation.
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A Brief History
Designed by Kevin Brown and Steven Smith, the pair were tasked with modifying the brand’s hardwood offerings to better suit teenage athletes. During that era, competition for consumers' attention was cut-throat, and New Balance was going head-to-head with basketball industry titans such as Nike and Reebok, whose products like Air and Pump dominated.
After a brief retail run, the NB550 eventually faded into obscurity, only to resurface and become one of the trendiest shoes on the modern market.
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The Resurrection
Teddy Santis’ Aimé Leon Dore label and its quintessential New York aesthetic has garnered a cult following around the globe. A long-time New Balance collaborator, Santis first clocked the heritage hooper in an old Japanese catalogue. He worked closely with the NB team to acquire an original pair, with the aim being to create a one-for-one remake. September 21, 2020 marked the release of the first ALD x New Balance 550 and the hype machine instantly kicked into gear. ALD only made a few changes to give the shoes their signature faux vintage vibe.
A month later, the general releases started rolling in, with OG two-tone colourways landing at retailers around the globe. More collaborations with United Arrows, size?, Rich Paul and AURALEE all followed.
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A Staple Sneaker
The New Balance 550’s eclectic mix of styling options is undoubtedly one of the reasons that makes it so great. Boasting a simplistic shape and clean panelling, they elevate a ‘fit no matter what they’re being paired with. While on-foot, they remain low-key, with subtle flex appeal, thanks to the ties with Aimé Leon Dore.
A perfect starting point for beginner sneakerheads, the New Balance 550 is often compared to other 1980s sports-aligned sneakers which have remained heavy hitters today, such as the Nike Dunk and adidas Samba. Their broad array of general release colourways available rival that of their competition, and boast the same limited energy as their collaborations.
It’s been two years since the New Balance 550 took the world by storm, becoming a wardrobe necessity. An epic backstory and throwback vintage look, means they’re the ideal cop for someone who appreciates sneakers, history and good design.
Fast delivery – free over $50 – and free returns.
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