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The sneaker world is buzzing with the latest fruit of a powerhouse partnership between New Balance and Stone Island, two brands that have long danced between innovation and heritage. Their newest creation? A reimagined take on the New Balance 998, a shoe that first hit the scene in 1993 as a trailblazer, debuting the game-changing ABZORB cushioning technology. This isn’t just a nostalgic nod—it’s a bold step forward, fusing New Balance’s athletic legacy with Stone Island’s avant-garde edge in a collaboration that’s been years in the making.
The inspiration for this iteration comes straight from Stone Island’s archives, channeling the spirit of the iconic Raso Gommato fabric—a Massimo Osti masterpiece unveiled in the SS84 collection. Known for its rugged yet refined vibe, that textile gets a modern twist here with an exclusive rubberized polyurethane-coated cotton canvas. It’s a material that screams Stone Island, born in Ravarino, Italy, where military-inspired aesthetics meet a sleek, contemporary sophistication. The result is a sneaker that feels both battle-ready and runway-worthy—a perfect marriage of form and function.
Visually, the New Balance 998 Stone Island is a stunner. Its color palette pulls from Stone Island’s SS25 vision: think soft mauve, deep navy blue, and crisp white, layered with silver reflective accents that shimmer with every stride. It’s a design that doesn’t just sit pretty—it demands attention, blending understated elegance with a futuristic flair. The signature ‘N’ of New Balance graces the nylon tongue, sitting proudly alongside the Stone Island Compass logo, a subtle emblem of their shared ethos. Every detail, from the texture to the tonal interplay, feels deliberate, like a conversation between two brands that know exactly who they are.
Mark your calendars: this exclusive drop lands on March 27, available only at select Stone Island stores and online at stoneisland.com. It’s more than just a sneaker release—it’s a testament to how long-term alliances can yield something truly unique, merging technical innovation with a style that’s timeless yet ahead of its time. For collectors, fashion enthusiasts, and anyone who lives at the intersection of sport and culture, this 998 is poised to be a must-have—a piece of wearable history reborn.
Photo: Stone Island / New Balance