The Sneaker Scene: Why New Balance's Underrated Silhouettes Deserve More Love
The world of sneakers is a fascinating one, with trends constantly evolving and new styles emerging. But amidst the sea of loud, busy sneakers, there's a brand that has been quietly gaining traction and carving out its own unique space: New Balance. Once seen as the 'dad' sneaker brand, New Balance has now become a style staple, with its sneakers popping up on everyone from middle management to fashion influencers.
What's particularly interesting about New Balance is its ability to offer a range of styles that cater to different tastes and preferences. While the obvious pairs like the 550, 2002R, and 991v1 are ubiquitous, there are a whole host of underrated silhouettes that deserve more attention. These include the 530 and 9060, which are chunky retro kicks that harken back to the early '90s as performance running shoes. The 9060, in particular, takes inspiration from classic 99X models and exaggerates everything, from giant midsoles to warped proportions, creating a retro-futurist aesthetic that feels like a stretched-out 990 in the best possible way.
New Balance has also been quick to adapt to shifting fashion trends. As the rest of the sneakerverse has been making things chunkier and chunkier, New Balance has been tapping into the return to slimmer silhouettes. The 204L and RC56 are newer, flatter styles that feel somewhere between a vintage runner and an old football training shoe. The 204L, in particular, has already become a favorite among fashion brands, with collaborations from Auralee and Kith selling out in record time. The RC56, on the other hand, leans more into retro racing aesthetics, and its debut alongside an Aimé Leon Dore collection resulted in sold-out pairs in minutes.
But it's not just about the obvious choices. New Balance is also offering a range of more niche styles that cater to those who want something a little different. The Gator Run, for example, is a trail runner with outdoorsy vibes that feels niche compared to your average pair. Its strange, toothy outsole makes it a favorite among trainer guys who are looking for something a little more unique.
In my opinion, New Balance's underrated silhouettes are a testament to the brand's ability to offer a range of styles that cater to different tastes and preferences. While the obvious pairs are ubiquitous, the deeper you go into the catalogue, the more interesting it gets. So, if you're looking for something a little different, I'd highly recommend exploring New Balance's lesser-known styles. You might just find your new favorite pair of sneakers.
