Jordan 1s, Nike Dunks, and Yeezys might own much of the conversation on social media, this year has been a year filled with creative partnerships from the “other” sneaker brands out there. One of the most prominent is the partnership between Teddy Santis and New Balance. Santis is the founder of Aimé Leon Dore, one of the most popular brands in menswear at the moment. Back in April, Teddy was named as Creative Director at New Balance. While the title might have lost its luster over the years, Santis’ efforts have breathed new life into New Balance, especially in the lifestyle footwear part of the business.
For the winter, Santis’ has been focused on Made In The USA legacy product like the legendary New Balance 990 in all of its variations. However, Teddy’s Aimé Leon Dore is reimagining two new versions of another returning model that they helped make popular again, the New Balance 550. The 550 has been one of the most popular silhouettes of the past year or two thanks to classic styling and a number of traditional colorways being released. However, what was once a basketball shoe that typically was found with varsity colors at every new drop, has found new life as its been embraced by more fashion-minded individuals like Teddy Santis.
The latest Aimé Leon Dore x New Balance 550 uses subtle combination of grey and off-white hues, combined with “vintaged” outsoles and premium materials that are better suited for a life of luxury than time on the basketball court. Look for these ALD x NB 550s to release on October 31 at ALD and New Balance.
