In celebration of Black History Month, New Balance is releasing a collection titled “My Story Matters” that emphasizes black experience and equity. The entire collection was concepted and designed by black associates at New Balance.
The colors found in the collection are drawn “from a core institution in the Black community: the Church.” Rich purple serves as a design focal point, a call to the purple choir robes that are found in gospel choirs around the country on Sunday mornings. Purple and black apparel options come with the phrase “My Story Matters” with an option for allies that carries the phrase “Their Story Matters.” The variation in message is more than a limited colorway collaboration and encourages celebration of black accomplishments past just the month of February. A t-shirt and hoodie option are available $34.99 and $79.99 respectively.
The sneakers in the collection include a 990v5 and a 574 that celebrate black culture and heritage. The 990v5 has a tan suede upper with burgundy laces, heel detail, and tongue accents. A large purple diagonal heel detail color blocks the shoe and gives it a unique dimension. The ‘N’ logo is gold with a burgundy outline to pop off of the tan suede. A rugged gum outsole rounds out the clean design.
The 574 features a predominately black suede upper with a burgundy ‘N’ logo and heel detail. A wrapping purple toe box extend to the midsole and breaks up the color-blocking. Gold details are present on the heel tab branding and a removable braided lave that wraps around the collar.
The New Balance “My Story Matters” collection will be available starting on February 15th on the New Balance website and at select retailers. The 990v5 will be priced at $174.99 USD and the 574 will be priced at $89.99 USD. The 574 will release later in February.
