Japanese Boro Technique Elevates The New Balance 550 And 580 With Denim And Suedes

Expected to release in November.

Jared Ebanks November 4, 2023

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At the forefront of the “Dad Shoe” trend, New Balance has continued to revolutionize its mainstay styles with timeless collaborations and unexpecting textiles. For its latest installment, the Boston-based brand has transitioned the centuries-old technique of Boro stitching onto the banner’s lifestyle staples originally tooled for the hardwood.

The New Balance Boro Pack transplants the traditional Japanese patchwork method onto both the 550 and 580. The captivating technique originated in the mid-1800s, involving the repairing and repurposing of worn-out garments and textiles by meticulously stitching together small scraps of fabric. As such, both pairs are drenched in differing shades and textures of indigo, boasting panels that effortlessly mix together elements like hairy suede, denim, woven canvas, cracked leather and pre-aged suede. Paying further homage to Japanese craft, the litany of panels are strewn together with exposed cream-white stitching, harkening to the Boro treatment’s typical hand-stitched approach.

The New Balance Boro Pack will be available in November, although no firm release date has been confirmed by the brand. In the meantime, both the 550 and 580 can be seen ahead in detailed imagery.

For more November releases, the Jordan 11 “Neapolitan” drops on November 11th.