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# Muted Overlaying Bulky Sneakers
New Balance's ML850 Sneakers Arrive in a White and Gray Colorway

By Amy Duong | Published 2020-01-07 | Fashion
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ml850
References: [hypebeast](https://hypebeast.com/2019/12/new-balance-ml850-grey-white-mi850ysb-release-date-info) & [sneakersnstuff](https://www.sneakersnstuff.com/en/product/40215/new-balance-ml850)

New Balance launches its ML850 retro sneaker design in a [monochromatic muted colorway](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/black-and-grey-colorway) option that highlights white and gray detailing. The purpose of the relaunch is to appeal to a younger audience as the sneaker was originally recognized as a '[dad shoe](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-balance-1906r-rose-sugar).'

The new update is just as [bulky in structure](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/1906r-cordura) as the original and the colorway spotlights three different pieces. The first base at the foundation is a black mesh material which is then overlayed with gray suede trimmings that reaches from the heel all the way to the forefoot area. The last and final overlay is complete in a white leather mudguard with cut-out details to show the depth of the design. Finalizing the sneaker is a slight pop of color in red found on the collar and the tongue.

Image Credit: Sneakersnstuff

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 2.3/10
- Popularity: 57% | Activity: 3% | Freshness: 9%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes)

## Key Themes

### Why This Trend Is Growing

- **Muted Colorway Sneakers:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore new colorways and designs that transform traditionally 'dad shoes' into appealing options for younger consumers.
- **Bulky Retro Sneaker Revival:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop modern updates to retro sneaker designs, catering to the nostalgia of older consumers while attracting new audiences.
- **Overlaying Material Combinations:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Experiment with unique material combinations to create visually intriguing overlays that enhance the aesthetic appeal of footwear.

### Industries Being Reshaped

- **Footwear:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate technology advancements, sustainable materials, and customization options to offer innovative and personalized sneaker experiences.
- **Fashion:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Combine the influences of streetwear and high fashion to create trendy and statement-making footwear that appeals to a wide range of consumers.
- **Youth Culture:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Tap into the preferences and desires of younger consumers, creating sneakers that reflect their unique style, interests, and identities.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [Muted Monochromatic Lifestyle Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/black-and-grey-colorway.md)
- [Minimal Tonal Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/509-sneaker.md)
- [Muted Tonal Heritage Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/grey-matter.md)
- [Muted Neutral Earthy Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/grey-days-colorway.md)
- [Minimal Monochromatic Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nimbus-cloud-colorway.md)
- [Cool-Tonal LIfestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/abzorb-2000.md)
- [Collegiate-Inspired Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/550-sneaker-4.md)
- [Retro Vibrant Detailed Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-balance-1000-2.md)
- [Monochromatic Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/back-in-black.md)
