This year’s been a BIG one for next-level releases and statement sneakers. But there’s one style that’s caused huge hype and consistently delivered…
We think it’s fair to say that New Balance’s iconic 550 silhouette has reached a legendary status in 2022, so it’s only right that we take a look back on some of the biggest drops of the year.
Back in 1989, New Balance released the ‘P550 Basketball Oxford’. The same sleek silhouette we know today, it was crafted with smooth perforated leather with a low-cut collar. But in the late ‘80s, the 550 was competing with some top court kicks, and it didn’t quite take off.
Fast forward 30 years, and ‘Godfather of Dad Trainers’, Teddy Santis, dug the 550 out from the archives. Gaining mega momentum in the streetwear and sneakerhead communities, the 550 was back.
The hype isn’t goin’ anywhere, and since the silhouette made a comeback in 2020, there’s been some serious heat landin’ all year long.
Now, the 550 has a vintage sportswear feel, with clean-cut design lines and bold colourways to stand out on the streets. Let’s take a look at some of the hottest drops of the year…
550 White Red Black Women’s
Starting with a bold style, these women’s New Balance 550 kicks landed in a standout White Black Red colourway. Premium perforated leather in clean White has classic stitched overlays in Black and Red for a classic, collegiate-inspired vibe.
550 White Red Men’s
New Balance’s iconic 550 silhouette lands for the guys in this White Red colourway. Creamy Off White and stark Red hues come together in this sleek design, with b-ball feels and a heritage design. Super versatile to style with your everyday ‘drobe, this edition mixes bold and subtle with the perfect balance.
550 Black White Women’s
Every gal needs a pair of monochrome kicks in her life, right?! These women’s White and Black 550s are the perfect, clean creps to level up your rotation. Timeless and super-chic, this colourway is a go-to every time!
550 Triple Black Men’s
Stealth mode gets switched on with these men’s Triple Black 550s. Black on Black treads look fresh with any ‘fit, and these ones look ultra-sleek with premium leather, a classic silhouette and a bold colourway.
550 White Au Lait Women’s
The hype around the White Au Lait 550 drop was huge, and we can see why! These sneaks show off warm tones and with peachy vibes, and landing in Spring was perf’ timing. A simple silhouette, elevated by subtle colours, these kicks were a high-heat launch that upped the NB momentum, big time!
550 White Beige Women’s
Clean-cut and super-sleek, the women’s White Beige 550 takes a signature style and changes the game. Featuring toned-down, creamy details, they take a classic White kick to the next level. We saw neutrals takin’ over this year, so there’s no doubt that these were one of New Balance’s top trendin’ pairs!
550 University Blue Men’s
These cool White and Blue creps landed for the guys, making big waves with their icy hues. The University Blue colourway boasts smooth leather with sleek, contrasting underlays that add an essential pop of colour. Bringin’ brighter vibes to New Balance’s 550 lineup, the University Blue edition quickly became a must-cop!
550 White Green Black Men’s
Crisp White leather is complemented by Black and Green accents in this men’s 550 silhouette. With a standout and sporty vibe, these creps feature similar colourways to the high-heat Aime Leon Dore collab, making this colourway a big one to watch!
550 White Dark Grey Men’s
Not quite your classic monochrome, this men’s White Grey Black colourway took on New Balance’s iconic 550. Smokey Greys and stark Whites come together to deliver a sleek and street-ready look.
55 White Pink Cream Women’s
Landing in a JD-exclusive colourway this time, check these White Pink 550 sneakers, just for the gals. Bright White leather with signature perforations is contrasted with dreamy, dainty Pink and Cream colours.
These kicks have come a long way since the late ’80s. But the silhouette still rings true to the OG, delivering a timeless silhouette that works every time.
If you want your chance at bagging a pair of New Balance’s iconic 550 in the future, make sure you keep it locked on our socials @JDOfficial and @JDWomen, and sign up to JDX for early access to the hottest drops!
