BAPE x New Balance 57/40
After a blowout 2021 led by Teddy Santis' rising star in the 550, a whole host of collaborations ranging from Jaden Smith on the 57/40 to JJJJound on the 990 and Stone Island on the RC Elite V2, it's harder than ever to talk sneaker without talking New Balance.
You don't need to be a NB diehard to appreciate and respect the levels being set by the brand. After going head-to-head with the Nike Air Max 1 for Air Max Day, making it crystal clear that the 550 is ready to continue its land grab on the Dunk Low and whetting our appetite for a year full of 990s, next up is a BAPE re-up.
Hitting the net via Sneaker Bar Detroit, the two-piece pack is deep-rooted in BAPE's most iconic patterns and iconography for statement finishes.
The first of the two is a bold, multi-colored render set on a white mesh base. Suede and leather overlays are made up of a mix of purple, pink, blue, and orange, while the oversized midfoot branding takes on a pick and mix BAPE head camouflage covering.
Contrasting this louder pair is a monochromatic fixture made up of grey, black, and white shades. Like its counterpart, BAPE's iconic camo fills the branding hits while shark teeth dress the heel.
This sneaker duo is receiving mixed reviews online, making it difficult to pinpoint how the release will perform.
