Aimé Leon Dore Introduces the New Balance RC56—A Sporty, Retro Runner Design
Teddy Santis has to be amongst the busiest people in the sneaker space. In addition to overseeing the New Balance Made in USA program, the New York City-native continues to develop compelling product via his Aimé Leon Dore imprint. Ahead of summer, the independent label has unveiled its latest project with the Boston-based brand: the RC56.
Teased via Instagram Stories, the New Balance RC56 by ALD is a departure from the bulk of the partnership's output. And yet, the retro runner delivers a similar aesthetic as the popular New Balance 860v2, which has been reworked by Santis and company multiple times.
The new proposal features a number of design cues from the brand's expansive running catalog. The profile angle evokes images of both the New Balance 1000 and 1906R as they showcase curved synthetic overlays near NLOCK systems. Porous mesh bases also tap into the current sneaker zeitgeist while providing a breathable ride for folks simply looking for the runner aesthetic.
Underfoot, the NB RC56 features a technical tooling solution thats simultaneously rooted in heritage and modern performance. The same reliable FuelCell foam found in the New Balance 990v6 appears as part of ALD's next collaboration. A stability shank underneath the mid-foot delivers torsional support, while the angular tread pattern delivers robust rubber coverage.
The silhouette's overall shape and tread hint at Santis' possible inspiration for the RC56: the RX505 from the late 2000s. The cross-country racer shares DNA with the ever-important Trackster design from 1960. In modern times, the Donald Glover-co-signed RC30 has made nods to this rich running past.
Aimé Leon Dore's co-branded model opts for a sportier, more technical build that's sure to sell out upon release. A vibrant array of color combinations are expected to land on the sneaker, alongside muted, versatile looks.
Santis and team opened a draw for their New Balance RC56 on Monday, May 19, via aimeleondore.com. The draw closes on Wednesday, May 21, with the accompanying capsule launching on Friday, May 23. The sneaker is priced at $160.
For more running-inspired footwear, check out the Adidas Jellyfish by Pharrell Williams.
