Basketball isn’t necessarily the first sport you think of when it comes to New Balance. However, the last half-decade has seen the Boston-based footwear label expand its performance basketball offerings and the players on its roster, as seen recently with the signing of Cooper Flagg. While the brand just debuted its Hesi Low v2, another inline performance basketball model is getting updated this year as the TWO WXY v5 will be debuting this month in multiple colorways.
The model's design has been updated in this new v5 iteration, adding a new knit base with the TPU reinforcement on the medial toe of the v4 reworked into a new position. More TPU film is placed in a wavy pattern on the medial midfoot of the upper. At the same time, the lateral side hosts a large N logo.
Along the lacing setup sits a semi-translucent plastic section that helps secure the laces, including an X near the vamp. A new TPU heel counter is added for support, which sits atop another layer of TPU paneling that runs across the back half of the upper. The midsole gets an update below, with FuelCell and Fresh Foam X present. FuelCell runs throughout the sole unit, while Fresh Foam X is strategically placed at the heel and ball of the foot. New Balance has prepped five iterations for its launch colorways: Bullseye, Ultra Pink, Highlighter Green, Highlighter Blue, and Mercury Red.
"The TWO WXY v5 takes direction from our athletes on what refining features would elevate their competitive experience. Whether players are creating space or defending in the open floor, our team refined the balance of comfort and control through these dynamic moments," says Myles Williams, Assistant Product Manager, Basketball. "Adding athlete-led innovation to this franchise helps take Jamal's - and any hooper's - game to the next level."
The New Balance TWO WXY v5 will release on September 13, 2024, through Dick’s Sporting Goods, with a wider launch via New Balance and other retailers not having a confirmed date. Expect NB to drop the model in the coming weeks. Retail is set at $120 in men's sizing. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest happenings in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via New Balance
New Balance TWO WXY v5 Bullseye
New Balance TWO WXY v5 Ultra Pink
New Balance TWO WXY v5 Highlighter Green
New Balance TWO WXY v5 Highlighter Blue
New Balance TWO WXY v5 Mercury Red
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Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. Concerts, music, trying new restaurants, and catching the latest movies are some of the things I enjoy when not writing for Sole Retriever. Email: nick@soleretriever.com