In a nod to the enduring legacy of New Balance within the DMV area, where the brand's silhouettes have long been a staple of fashion and street culture, a unique collaboration emerges from the heart of Baltimore. Vu Skate Shop, a beacon in the Baltimore skate community, has partnered with New Balance to rework the Numeric 440v2. This collaboration isn't just a homage to the region's rich history with New Balance but also a celebration of Baltimore's story, skillfully woven into the fabric of the sneaker design.
The Vu Skate Shop x New Balance Numeric 440v2 Baltimore meticulously channels the essence of the iconic 990v3, from its color palette to its material selection. The upper, adorned in varying shades of grey, reflects the classic 990v3 design, featuring a ribbed N logo, a waffle-patterned tongue, and distinct 440 branding on the heel. Suede dominates the construction, complemented by a mesh midfoot for breathability and a reflective 3M heel tab, enhancing visibility and flair.
Unique touches that pay tribute to Baltimore and Vu Skate Shop are evident in the vibrant orange accents on the tongue's New Balance branding, the tongue lining, the Vu heel logo, and the chess-inspired insole graphic. The choice of greyscale aligns with the 990v3's aesthetic and draws inspiration from Formstone, a hallmark architectural material in 20th-century Baltimore homes, further grounding the design in local lore. The sneaker is completed with a crisp white midsole, detailed with black stitching, and a durable black outsole, ready for the streets and skate parks alike.
The Vu Skate Shop x New Balance Numeric 440v2 Baltimore will release on April 10, 2024, at select skate shops, with a wider release through New Balance on April 15, 2024. Available in men’s sizing, the retail price is set at $80 for the regular box and $100 for a special box edition exclusively from Vu Skate Shop. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app for updates on this release and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Vu Skate Shop x New Balance Numeric 440v2 Baltimore
Images via New Balance
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
