NEW BALANCE 550: LOUISVILLE LOCAL LOVE
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NEW BALANCE 550: LOUISVILLE LOCAL LOVE
THE NEW BALANCE 550- A MODERN SNEAKER OR A CLASSIC?
We can't talk about the coolest sneakers without talking about New Balance. Founded in 1906, this brand screams quality, craftsmanship, and innovation. Among their impressive line of sneakers, the New Balance 550 or NB550 garnered much attention in recent years. Although many think the NB550 is a modern sneaker, it's actually a classic that can be traced back to the basketball courts of the 80s.
The original 550 debuted in 1989, and after its initial run, the sneaker was filed into the archives. While it did not make much noise then, the New Balance 550 came back in full swing 20 years later when it was reintroduced as a limited edition. Due to its global popularity, it returned to the full-time lineup in 2021. The vintage and archival silhouette made it a complete hit this time around.
Today, NB550 is more than a basketball shoe. It's a sneaker with a timeless aesthetic, distinctive court-inspired look, superior performance, and comfort. The reason for its newfound popularity is its versatility. While it retains the original aesthetic, the sneaker has a simple design and a range of colorways that go like a dream with pretty much any fit. Compared to the rest of the NB lineups, the 550 is also the most preferred in terms of price and value.
LOUISVILLE LOCAL LOVE, BROUGHT TO YOU BY 550
That’s right, we now have a brand-new 550 IN BLUE!! What's more? Jack Harlow, one of the brand's biggest fans, is featuring this newest iteration to show his love for his New Balance sneaker of choice. Or should we say, his FIRST-CLASS shoe?
New Balance takes it back to Louisville- Harlow's home turf, where he poses in his hip-hop element at his favorite food joint in town. It's time to whip your lovin' on the 550 Blue because this sneaker is G-L-A-M-O-U-R-O-U-S.
The sneaker features a synthetic leather upper that blends breathable mesh to deliver durability and a cool retro look in one go. The iconic "N" logo, combined with leather and suede materials, continues to create a classic and versatile look in this iteration as well. The 550's low-top, streamlined silhouette offers a clean take on the late 80's heavy-duty court designs. At the same time, the dependable synthetic suede upper construction makes it iconic in any era. Plush and comfy, the cushioning of the signature foam midsole remains in the design and keeps your steps light and bouncy. Ensuring definitive traction, the rubber outsole lets you easily take on any terrain. Undoubtedly, the new silhouette lives up to its reputation by offering superior performance and comfort.
STYLING THE BLUE 550
Whether you're dressing up or going for a casual vibe, the NB550 goes effortlessly with any style, and that's what makes it so unique. With its cushioned sole and ample arch support--it's the perfect staple sneaker. If you have this in your shoe-drobe, you'll find yourself reaching for them on the daily, whether you're hitting the streets or the gym. And it's not just the style and comfort; its performance makes it a favorite choice for athletes and sneakerheads alike.
We've invited our Striper Artem from Prague to celebrate this iconic sneaker's new colorway. He's also an NB Ambassador and thrilled to share his first impressions on the shoe and styling tips to get you ahead of the game.
Artem sports a navy blue hoodie with grey track pants, showing us that rain or shine- the 550 is here to stay. He shows us his unique style by walking down the stairs and through the wet pavements of the city. It's giving streetwear meets function, and if you're looking to make a subtle statement, this is it.
Then, of course, there's the Louisville-Harlow look that you can go for. Pick your favorite pair of beige or white joggers and contrast them with a blue-shaded tracksuit or sweatshirt, and it'll go perfectly with the shades of the shoe. You can never go wrong with loose fits and an NB550.
But casuals and athleisure are not the only styles that go with these shoes. You can pair the same color combinations with your favorite formal skirt, trousers, and shirt. Rest assured, the blue colorway will thrive in the fit. This shoe goes with everything from casual and laid-back to retro and modern fits. But if we have to choose one effortlessly cool look for this shoe, it has to be a plain white tee with denims matching the shoe's shade. You simply can't go wrong in those.
Explore NB550's timeless style in this new colorway, exclusively at select Foot Locker stores and online starting February 22. Cop them now!