Aimé Leon Dore's New Balance 996 Collaboration Is A Hidden Gem For Sneakerheads
Breaking the mold.
If you're a fan of Aimé Leon Dore's New Balance sneaker collaborations, you might be surprised to find out that the brand quietly released a new pair of shoes on its website and flagship stores. The New Balance 996, a classic runner with a sleek silhouette, is available in two monochrome colorways made of premium leather. Unlike the previous ALD x NB releases, which sold out in minutes, the 996 is still in stock as of this writing.
Why is that? Well, it seems that the brand didn't do much to promote the collaboration, apart from a magazine editorial posted on its Instagram page a few days before the launch. There was no hype, no countdown, no teaser images. Just a simple drop that only the most attentive fans would notice.
This could be seen as a bold move by Aimé Leon Dore, which has built a loyal following for its New Balance collaborations over the years. The brand could have easily hyped up the 996 and created a frenzy among sneaker enthusiasts, but instead it chose to keep it low-key and let the shoes speak for themselves.
On one hand, this is a refreshing approach in an industry where sneaker collaborations are often overhyped and overproduced. The 996 is a subtle and sophisticated shoe that doesn't need flashy marketing to stand out. It's a nice treat for fans who appreciate the quality and craftsmanship of ALD and New Balance.
On the other hand, this is also a missed opportunity to showcase one of the best sneaker collaborations of the year. The 996 is a timeless model that deserves more attention and recognition. It's a shame that many people might miss out on this collaboration because they didn't know it existed.
Either way, if you're looking for a pair of sneakers that are elegant, comfortable and versatile, you can't go wrong with the Aimé Leon Dore x New Balance 996. They are priced at $210 and come in sizes 4 to 13 for men and women. But hurry, because they might not last long once word gets out.