New Balance has introduced the 471, a shoe that draws from its archives while remaining firmly rooted in modern wearability. The silhouette takes cues from the brand‘s iconic road running styles, but strips them down for a cleaner, more adaptable look.
The design team aimed for a cleaner, more streamlined silhouette while staying true to New Balance’s deep connection to 1970s running culture. They spent months studying vintage references and drawing inspiration from the brand’s classic styles-examining materials, color palettes and signature details from the era. Elements like hairy suede overlays and woven mesh pay homage to the sneakers of the era, resulting in a fresh yet understated shoe that balances retro touches with modern appeal.
Joe Walsh, New Balance’s Principal Footwear Designer, led the effort to ensure the design felt current without losing its historical roots. The final product reflects careful attention to the brand’s heritage while meeting today’s expectations for style and comfort.
The New Balance 471 is not simply a reissue of an existing retro model, but a new design built for today’s consumers. It avoids being a carbon copy of past models while retaining the essence of what makes New Balance sneakers timeless. The sneaker made a notable public debut on the feet of brand ambassador Cameron Brink at this year’s NBA Paris Games.
The New Balance 471 retails for €100 EUR and is available worldwide through the New Balance website and select retailers.
