Prepare to be amazed as we dive into the latest sneaker sensation! Salehe Bembury's New Balance shoe is a true masterpiece, inspired by nature's wonders.
This week, Salehe Bembury, a renowned designer, continues his nature-inspired New Balance series with a shoe that pays homage to the deepest lake in the United States - Crater Lake. But here's where it gets interesting; instead of following typical trends, Bembury's campaign focuses on Crater Lake National Park in Oregon, creating a unique and captivating narrative.
The sneaker itself is a work of art, featuring a combination of shaggy suede, smooth nubuck, and mesh in an array of grays, blues, and greens. The iconic 'N' logo stands out boldly in yellow, while Bembury's signature hangtag adds a personal touch. The heel's stabilizing cage and a portion of the sole unit also showcase pops of yellow, contrasting beautifully with the olive green and steel accents.
And this is the part most people miss; the sneaker's design seamlessly blends with the park's scenery, creating an uncanny resemblance. It's as if the shoe was born from the very heart of Crater Lake National Park.
What's more, this collaboration marks Bembury's first venture into the 992 model, introduced by New Balance in 2006 to celebrate its 100th anniversary. Steve Jobs, a renowned tech visionary, was a huge fan of this shoe during its initial run. After a brief hiatus, New Balance brought it back in 2020, and now, Bembury adds his unique touch.
Last fall, Bembury took a bold step by launching his own sneaker brand, Spunge, expanding his creative horizons beyond collaborations. And now, the Salehe Bembury x New Balance 992 "Calm Be the Crater" is set to release this Thursday on Bembury's website, with a possible follow-up release through New Balance's channels. Priced at $220, this sneaker is a must-have for any collector.
So, what do you think? Is this collaboration a masterpiece or a missed opportunity? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Don't be shy; let's spark a discussion about this unique fusion of nature and fashion.