The New Balance 550, initially dubbed the P550 Basketball Oxford, emerged in 1989. Designed by Steven Smith, it was conceived as a low-top alternative to the New Balance 650. This model, however, initially failed to capture significant interest and faded from the market, awaiting a resurgence. The 'Vintage Pack Concrete' variant specifically targets a vintage aesthetic, reflecting its historical roots.
The New Balance 550, with its foam midsole and Ortholite insole, provides a blend of comfort and support. The original 550 featured a thick sole with EVA foam, while the modern iteration incorporates an exposed EVA wedge on the medial sidewall. Its rubber outsole, designed with a blocky tread pattern and a forefoot pivot point, ensures both traction and durability. The shoe is primarily intended for casual wear as a lifestyle sneaker.
The New Balance 550 has become a cornerstone in contemporary fashion. The revival of the model in 2020, spearheaded by a collaboration with Aimé Leon Dore (ALD), propelled it into the global spotlight. This partnership, specifically, has solidified its status as a fashion favorite, embraced by streetwear enthusiasts and style icons alike. The 550's resurgence also aligns with the aesthetic preferences of the hardcore music scene and football casuals in the UK, further cementing its versatility and enduring appeal in varied subcultures.
The upper boasts a low-top, structured silhouette crafted with layered construction. It showcases off-white leather, punctuated by perforations, complemented by mesh tongues and black suede overlays gracing the collar. Signature elements include the shrunken 'N' logo on the quarter panel, '550' branding, and a basketball graphic on the woven tongue tag. The design is completed with a two-tone, high-profile outsole and an aged-washed rubber sole.
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