The New Balance 550 is making its long-awaited return after a successful 2020 reintroduction. The silhouette was originally manufactured in 1989 and has solidified its place in the sneaker world ever since. This summer season, the New Balance 550 arrives in two new colorways that nod to the LA Lakers.
Though the sneakers are not the result of an official collaboration between the Lakers and New Balance, the presentation is very similar to the signature colors of the team. Both shoes come with traditional white leather uppers and perforated textures along the lower mid-foot region. The first pair relies on yellow and gold accents, basketballs on the tongues, and purple hints. The second pair does the opposite and boasts purple N insignias, details on the heel, and tongue graphics.
No official release date has been confirmed, but New Balance is expected to drop this sneaker duo in due time.
Basketball Team-Inspired Sneakers
New Balance Will Release Two New LA Lakers-Colored Sneakers
Trend Themes
1. Nostalgia-inspired Sneakers - Brands can tap into consumers' nostalgia by resurrecting popular sneaker silhouettes from previous eras and revamping them with modern elements.
2. Unofficial Sports Team Collaborations - Brands can create unofficial collaborations with popular sports teams by incorporating team colors and logos into their product designs without the need for official licensing agreements.
3. Customizable Sneaker Design - Brands can offer customers the ability to customize their sneakers with different colors and finish options, allowing for personalized branding opportunities.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion & Apparel - Fashion and apparel brands can utilize the trend of nostalgia-inspired sneakers to offer unique throwback designs to appeal to consumers' love for vintage styles.
2. Sports & Athletics - Sports and athletics brands can take inspiration from the trend of unofficial sports team collaborations to create products that resonate with sports fans' love for their teams.
3. Digital Retail - Digital retail companies can use the customizable sneaker design trend to offer personalized options for customers, creating a unique buying experience and increasing brand loyalty.