The New Balance 57/40 has gained a level of popularity that even New Balance probably didn’t expect it to, following accusations that have been circulating the Internet that say there are hidden Swooshes in the sneaker’s design. As speculative as this may be, the claim can only be proposed to pairs of certain colorways, and the new “Munsell White” and “Charcol/Red” offerings definitely lean away from what’s being said online.
In “Munsell White,” the 57/40 adopts that premium and minimal aesthetic we’ve come to expect from the iconic sportswear label. The white suede uppers appear grayer in tone, while hairy gray suede has been used for the “N” emblem on the mid-panel and for the heel tab. Cream mesh makes up the toe box, tongue, and side panels, while touches of red can be found outlining the “N” logo. Altogether, the pair looks understated and perfect for the warmer months ahead, while the “Charcoal/Red” iteration will be your next pair for later on in the year.
The suede on this pair is denser all over, while hairy red suede still defines elements such as the heel and the “N” emblem alongside lilac-gray outlining. Both pairs are finished with a New Balance tongue tag, a white-and-gray rubber sole unit and outsole, and a clip on the heel in gray.
Take a look at the New Balance 57/40 in “Munsell White” and “Charcol/Red” above, and pick up both colorways now from HBX. They cost $134 USD each.
For more controversial sneakers, the USPS-inspired Nike Air Force 1 Experimental is officially releasing.