New Balance Numeric Brings Back 770 Cross-Trainer as a Skate Shoe
New Balance knows classics. The Boston brand has spent this decade reinventing the history that brought them here, mixing exact retros and modern updates to resounding success. The multi-era influence can be found throughout the New Balance catalog, but it is clearest in the New Balance Numeric skate line.
The latest silhouette from Numeric, the 770, is a retooled version of the CXT770, a mid-90s cross-trainer that became a staple on tennis courts across the country. For the skate version, New Balance kept the shape and design elements exactly the same, but upgraded the materials and padding to survive the war against griptape. The Counter Reinforcer Footframe System from the original still wraps the heel into a segmented midsole with added stability, and the forefoot stability panels from the OG model just happen to be placed in the perfect place for extra ollie protection.
Debuting in two colorways, grey with purple accents and black with grey accents, the Numeric 770 is constructed of suede and leather across the upper, with a 0.8mm thermoplastic reinforcement layer underneath the toe for extra durability and a molded PU insole for cushy protection underfoot.
Ever since the major sportswear brands entered the skate space in the early 2000s, we’ve seen countless retro models redesigned for skating, from the Nike Dunk and Air Max 95 to the adidas Samba and Forum. New Balance Numeric has taken a more referential approach so far. For example, taking panels and shapes from 99X models for the Andrew Reynolds 933, but this time around, the 770 was taken straight from the tennis court to the ledge spot. The brand also brought back the 480, an ‘80s performance basketball shoe, and retooled it for the skatepark.
The New Balance Numeric 770 will be released on September 15, 2025, through select New Balance Numeric retailers in-store and online. Available in men’s sizing, the retail price is set at $125. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
New Balance Numeric 770 Black Grey
New Balance Numeric 770 Grey Purple
Zach Harris is a writer based in Philadelphia. His work has appeared in Rolling Stone, Vice, Complex, High Times, and more. He is obsessed with skateboarding and bowling. He is still looking for his first 300. For tips, reviews, and anything in size 10.5 - zach.h@soleretriever.com
