The Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 990v4 Made in USA 1998 Pack Releases December 2023

The relationship between Joe Freshgoods and New Balance has been prolific. Known for storytelling through design, Joe Freshgoods, the moniker of Joseph Robinson, has carved a unique niche within the sneaker community, primarily through his New Balance collaborations that often reflect personal narratives and community-driven themes. As 2023 is coming to a close, the anticipation builds for the latest from JFG — a New Balance 990v4.

The upcoming Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 990v4 Made in USA 1998 Pack is set to make a statement with its understated yet refined color palette. Debuting the sneaker, Freshgoods took to social media to showcase a new campaign inspired by the legendary XXL photoshoot featuring DMX, Jay-Z, and Ja Rule of the short-lived hip-hop supergroup Murder Inc. As for the 990v4 itself, it comes in three different colorways. One, dubbed "Intro" sees white and grey appear on the overlays and black on the underlays. The "Outro" sees a similar mix, though the placement is inverted. Finally, the "Keisha Blue" covers the mesh and suede sneaker entirely in a single blue tone with minty hues on the laces acting as an accent. All three come inspired by the Hype Williams film Belly, starring Nas and DMX.

The design follows Freshgoods' recent move away from pastel tones, opting for a more timeless, monochromatic scheme. Premium materials typical of the Made in USA range, including pigskin suede, patent leather, and nubuck, are featured on all three colorways. Joe Freshgoods adds his touch to the sneaker not only through the color palette and material makeup but via added branding details. JFG is placed on the lateral heel, replacing the usual 990 text, while we see "1998" featured on the heel tab. Final hits of JFG branding are featured on the right sneaker's insole.

The Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 990v4 Made in USA 1998 Pack will release December 22, 2023, via New Balance and select retailers online and in-store. Joe Freshgoods is hosting an EQL raffle on his website that will run until December 15. Based on the fact that official images of the Keisha Blue pair are not on New Balance's site and the raffle on JFG's site is limited to Chicago, it's likely these are exclusive to JFG. Available in unisex sizing, the retail price is set at $220. For the latest updates on this highly anticipated release, download our mobile app.