# Ski-Inspired Sneakers New Balance's 'MiUSA Connoisseur Collection' is Perfect for the Cold By Christopher Magsambol | Published 2015-09-23 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/connoisseur-collection References: [sneakernews](http://sneakernews.com/2015/09/16/new-balance-looks-to-retro-skiing-to-inspire-their-upcoming-connoisseur-collection/) & [hypebeast](http://hypebeast.com/2015/9/new-balance-retro-ski-sneakers-connoisseur-collection-miusa) In recent years, the Connoisseur Collection has been known to have uncharacteristic inspirations, like vintage guitars and pinball machines. This year's collection however has a far more apt inspiration for the coming winter months -- [vintage skiing and ski lodges](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kith-for-columbia-nse-collection). The sneaker company wanted to make these themes clear, even photographing its new collection in a ski lodge. The colors and materials used are all inspired by ski sweaters, hats and jackets. The uppers are made from [tonal suede](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/green-suede) and reflective mesh, a little homage to the [ski jacket](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/balenciaga-skiwear-2025). Some of the shoes in the Connoisseur Collection pay tribute to skiwear of the 50s and 60s with the use of rich textiles and textured twill, a popular material for competitive ski apparel in the past. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.1/10 - Popularity: 33% | Activity: 22% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Vintage-style Sneaker Collections:** Opportunity for sneaker brands to create collections inspired by different eras or aesthetics, bringing a unique and nostalgic appeal to their products. - **Theme-inspired Fashion Photography:** Opportunity for fashion brands to create visually engaging campaigns by shooting their collections in locations that reflect the theme or inspiration behind the designs. - **Nostalgic Sports-inspired Apparel:** Opportunity to tap into the nostalgia market by designing clothing and accessories that pay homage to popular sports and activities from the past, appealing to consumers seeking a sense of vintage charm. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Sneaker Manufacturing:** Opportunity for sneaker manufacturers to create collaboration collections with other industries, such as fashion or sports, to offer unique and innovative footwear options. - **Fashion Photography:** Opportunity for photographers and fashion brands to collaborate and create visually captivating campaigns that tell a story and evoke emotions through theme-inspired locations and settings. - **Apparel Design and Manufacturing:** Opportunity for apparel brands to create clothing and accessories that combine nostalgia and sports-inspired aesthetics, attracting customers who appreciate both style and functionality. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Vibrant Sportswear Lines](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/made-in-usa-season-3.md) - [Neutral Rugged Snow Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-niobium-concept-3.md) - [Money-Inspired Footwear Collabs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-concepts-x-new-balance-1000.md) - [Festive New Year-Inspired Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/991-sneaker-3.md) - [Vibrantly Inspired Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/northern-lights-sneakers.md) - [Earthy Tonal Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/made-in-usa-2.md) - [Streetwear-Inspired Snow Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/snow-boot.md) - [Neutral Tonal Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/m991wtr.md) - [Vibrant Sneaker Releases](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/1906r-collection.md)