The New Balance 550 Gets A Worn-Look Finish for "Grey Day"

From what started as a trend on Instagram mood boards, the retro aesthetic has taken over footwear on a global scale. From “Washed” Air Jordans to bespoke beauties, the vintage trend has been relentless across social media for the past few years. Footwear brands have jumped aboard, too, with New Balance lending their iconic silhouettes to the cause. The New Balance 550, which fits perfectly into those aforementioned mood boards, has just been prepared in a new pre-loved palette, with this new Grey and Blue banger showing years of love fresh out of the box.

Harkening back to a long history of athletic wear, the pair’s kep color accents of navy and sky blue are borrowed from a famous rival’s Alma Mater. Add to that an athletic mesh collar and tongue, and you’ve got a sneaker befitting of the era. To harness that long-ago period, New Balance have washed the leathers and midsoles with a worn-look distressing that Chef Huyle would be proud of.

Expect a release on New Balance and select retailers like Shoe Palace on May 12th (Grey Day) for $120.