New Balance 550 “J-Pack” Drops February 1st

Having just released in an Air Jordan 4 “Bred”-like aesthetic, the ’89 retro hoops silhouette from New Balance has now picked up another two classic colorway from Jordan Brand, with this New Balance 550 “Shadow” and New Balance 550 “Neutral Grey” appearing to be inspired by the Air Jordan 1s of the same name.

Though the composition different — perhaps it’s just a song of the times — the two barebones colorway titles will forever be held by the all-powerful Jumpman. The Shadow’s grey toe and rear end in conjunction with the clean white midsole and butter leather construction makes it hard not to make the connection. That being said, there are significant differences, including the multi-faceted outsole, its bevy of midfoot overlays, and the inclusion of mesh in the rear. The other option is as minimal, if not more, than the OG Air Jordan 1, pairing an all-white build with simple grey outsoles.

Grab a quick look at the two options previewed here by New Balance Hoops, and look for these to roll out at select NB stockists and NewBalance.com globally on February 1st. If you are planning on picking up a pair on the day, make sure you head to our dedicated New Balance Release Calendarto set yourself a reminder for the drop.

In other retro hoops news, official images of the aforementioned AIr Jordan 1 High 85 “Neutral Grey” have arrived.

New Balance 550 “Shadow”

Release Date: February 1st, 2021

Style Code: BB550SR1
Price: $110

New Balance 550 “Neutral Grey”

Release Date: February 1st, 2021

Style Code: N/A
Price: $110