NEW BALANCE 550: THE CLASSIC REBORN
NEW BALANCE 550 FOR MEN & WOMEN: ITS STORY
Established in 1906 by William J. Riley, a Boston-based shoemaker, New Balance set out to aid people with foot issues by developing orthopedic insoles that provided superior arch support. The brand gained international recognition in the 1960s when it entered the running shoe market.
Following their success with running models like the New Balance 990, the company ventured into basketball territory with the 550 in 1989. The new basketball silhouette embraced the classic 1980s trainer designs, featuring premium leather construction and a rubber sole. It wasn't until 2020 that the vintage design regained popularity among sneaker enthusiasts, as did the New Balance 550 White Green.
FASHIONABLE COLLABORATIONS FOR THE SNEAKER
During its 2020 resurgence, New Balance decided to reintroduce the retro model through a partnership with Aimé Léon Dore's Teddy Santis on the Oxford Basketball pack within the Uniform Program collection. The New York designer revamped the silhouette with a beige treatment on the sole and laces, giving it a vintage appeal that resonated with sneaker aficionados. The collaboration proved hugely successful and was replicated on the brand's most iconic models, such as the New Balance 991 Made in UK design.
Similarly, the collaboration with sports agent Rich Paul employed a comparable color scheme of cream and sky blue tones, giving it a luxurious, timeless appearance that pays tribute to its 1980s roots.
WILL THE MODEL BECOME WIDESPREAD?
Will the New Balance 550 experience a similar trajectory as the Nike Dunk Low? The answer remains uncertain for now. Due to its widespread appeal and trendy status, the New Balance 550 could potentially be offered in numerous colorways. However, New Balance may opt to maintain some level of exclusivity by keeping quantities low, which would explain the high resale prices at times.
By meeting the growing demand for the New Balance 550, the Boston-based brand could establish itself as a contender alongside Nike in the sneaker market. With the introduction of two colorways, Syracuse and UNC, the company appears to be drawing inspiration from the hottest colors of the moment for both men and women. With new models like the New Balance 2002R and the New Balance 327, the American manufacturer aims to attract a younger audience while continuing to offer special editions of its legendary models like the New Balance 992.
