New Balance offered an update to its Made in USA 998 model, this time outfitting the classic suede sneakers in an understated grayscale colorway that has accents of navy blue on the uppers.
Although the uppers are mostly made from suede, there are a few synthetic accents that provide just the right amount of contrast. These portions are included sparingly on the sides of the uppers. Also contrasting the suede are small leather accents, which are shown on the backs of the heels in a deeper hue of gray. The name of the model is included on the tongues in simple white embroidery.
The sneakers are currently available from retailers such as Premier.
Image Credit: New Balance
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Patriotic Grayscale Sneakers
- The trend of creating nationalistic sneakers with new designs assures the potential of acquiring a new market.
- Understated Colorway
- Sneaker manufacturers can increase demand by experimenting with toned-down color schemes.
- Use of Contrasting Materials
- Creating small contrasting details with different materials can revolutionize the aesthetic appeal for market tiers.
Where This Applies
- Footwear Industry
- Manufacturers can increase demand for sneakers by creating understated color schemes or nationalistic details with unique twists.
- Leather Production Industry
- Leather manufacturers could specialize in developing more varying materials for inclusion to create contrasting details on multiple product types.
- Retail Industry
- This innovative trend could be utilized by retailers in attracting new customers and reviving existing ones by providing exclusive models with unique details.
