Having Conquered the NBA, Rich Paul Perfected New Balance's 550
Brand: New Balance
Model: 550
Release Date: December 10
Price: starting at $40 for for T-shirts and reaching $130 for the 550 sneaker
Buy: New Balance's website, Klutch Shop
Editor's Notes: New Balance's 550 is one of 2021's biggest footwear hits, riding a wave of success from sold-out colorways, exclusive collaborations, and insider co-signs. Just before year's end, here comes Klutch Sports Group founder Rich Paul to perfect the silhouette.
If you haven't heard of Paul, you probably aren't a basketball fan. One of LeBron's closest pals, Paul is an ultra-influential sports agent who represents a number of heavy-hitting athletes, including King James himself.
As New Balance reasserts its on-court presence, Paul is a perfect partner to take it pro.
"Growing up, we always had an affinity for fashion but had very limited resources to express ourselves, and few examples of what success could look like off the court," said Paul. "When New Balance approached me about a collaboration, more than anything, I wanted to create something to inspire and empower young people coming up behind us – for boys and girls with creativity, passion and fearless determination to stay true to themselves."
Hopefully, that means plenty of pairs of his collaborative New Balance 550 sneakers, rendered in a pristine off-white color called "Raw Cashew" (tasty!) and affected by hits of "Eclipse" blue, brown, and pale gold.
Extra perforations heighten breathability, while pebbled leather affects an air of subtle luxury. Your mainline 550s could never.
That luxurious feel carries over to the apparel line, which includes premium shirts, basketball shorts, and a tracksuit, all as quietly opulent as Paul's bespoke 550s.
To stay updated on everything happening in the sneaker world, check out the best sneakers to add to your rotation this week, follow @highsnobietysneakers on Instagram, and sign up to our newsletter for early access to the best drops sent straight to your inbox.
