editorialinterviewsbuying Guidesselling guidespromotions
ABOUTSEARCHSHOPSubscribe
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Junya Watanabe Teases a New Balance Collab at Paris Fashion Week

Editorials

Adam Cheung
January 23, 2023

Dropping as part of the Japanese designer's FW23 collection.

If you thought hype surrounding New Balance was dying down, you'd be very wrong. After checking out the "Lunar New Year" collection earlier this season, the American sportswear company has now teamed up with none other than Junya Watanabe for a full sneaker and apparel collaboration that's nothing if not a monochromatic masterpiece. While the Japanese style icon is certainly no stranger when it comes to special NB projects, following a 574 series back in October, this is, without a shadow of a doubt, some of his best work yet - and here's everything that you need to know.

Taking on the 1906R, Watanabe's special rendition was teased on the runways of Paris Fashion Week. Spotted in two flavors, the first one boasts a premium mesh, leather, and suede construction and is painted in a crisp white palette. The second pair, on the other hand, opts for a "Triple Black" color scheme that's as stealthy as it gets. Both shoes sit on top of ABZORB midsoles for comfort and cushioning that's unlike anything else out there.

Junya Watanabe x New Balance
Image credits: Junya Watanabe

As if that wasn't enough, the Kanye West-admired designer is also working on the 650. Dipped completely in black from heel to toe, it's outfitted in breathable mesh and accented with metallic tones throughout for an understated yet unique aesthetic. Woven flat laces tie everything together, and the midsole underfoot has been engineered for the hardcourt, finalizing the design.

Not much else is known about the Junya Watanabe x New Balance collection is set to drop sometime in Fall/Winter 2023. Expected to be a pretty tough cop, make sure you keep it locked at Ox Street for your best chance to secure your size. Let us know which pair you're feeling the most, and while you're here, check out these Japanese designers that you should definitely know about.

Image credits: Junya Watanabe
Adam is a writer and editor specializing in sneakers and streetwear. Over the past few years, he's curated features and guides for fashion publications across the globe, winning multiple awards along the way. Often travelling between the UK and Hong Kong, don't be too surprised if you find Adam anywhere else around the world taking street photography or feasting on the local delicacies.