New Balance 550

White

Founded by William J. Riley in 1906, New Balance started small, producing highly flexible, three-point arch supports for those that suffered discomfort wearing shoes, all inspired by the daily balancing acts performed by Williams’ own backyard chickens as they nimbly navigated the coop. Chasing supportive, innovative comfort from the moment it was born over a century ago, New Balance would become a sporting shoe manufacturer of import among both athletes and basketballers, loved for its specialist footwear.

Rolling on to 1972, under new owner Jim Davis, New Balance foresaw a shift in the market. Hoping to ride the wave of casual style and streetwear, they began a push for leisure time products and comfy, all-day pieces that would eventually be sought-after from coast to coast and beyond, all renowned for their quality and comfort. From retro-inspired icons such as the 327 and 420 to the newer Fresh Foam cushioning technology pieces of today, New Balance has never stopped developing and has a deep collection of classic leather and suede silhouettes that will always look and feel superb.

Basketball is engrained deeply in the history of New Balance, and few shoes embody this inspiration greater than the 550. Designed by the legendary Steven Smith, the 550 built upon its b-ball focused predecessors the 480 and 650, bringing exaggerated lines inspired by 90s graffiti, all on a stable heel and responsive, updated traction. Fast-forward to 2018, and, after a period of obscurity for the 550, it finally catches the attention of nostalgia icon Teddy Santis and his Aime Leon Dore label, sparking new interest in this venerable piece. Refreshed and remade for a more appreciative age, remastered 550 shoes debuted in 2020, continuing to ride the wave of 90s inspiration with new colourways and releases.

• Vintage basketball style from the New Balance archives
• Low-top silhouette
• Leather, suede and synthetic upper
• Rubber outsole for traction and durability
• Adjustable lace closure