New Balance works in collaboration with Stone Island to bring a new look to its Made in USA 998 sneaker model with the launch of the Raso Gommato colorway palette. The classic silhouette was first launched in 1993 and was the first to feature the very iconic ABZORB cushioning.
The new version is inspired by the iconic Raso Gommato fabric by Stone Island. This is a satin weave cotton that is military-rooted and finished with a polyurethane coating. The material was first unveiled in 1984 by Massimo Osti. Since then, the material has been a staple in Stone Island's aesthetics. This makes up the shoe's upper before it is complemented by nubuck overlays and reflective accents.
Image Credit: Stone Island, New Balance
What's Driving This Trend
- Collaborative Fashion Design
- Partnerships between iconic brands like New Balance and Stone Island drive innovative product aesthetics and consumer engagement.
- Military-inspired Materials
- The use of military-rooted fabrics like Stone Island's Raso Gommato demonstrates a growing trend in utilizing durable, functional materials in fashion.
- Heritage Sneaker Revivals
- Revamping classic sneaker models with contemporary twists appeals to consumers seeking nostalgia combined with modern innovation.
Who This Affects Most
- Footwear Industry
- Innovations in sneaker design are influenced by heritage and collaborative branding, offering new avenues for product differentiation.
- Textile Manufacturing
- Military-inspired and coated materials provide unique opportunities for textile manufacturers to cater to high-end fashion demands.
- Fashion Collaborations
- Collaborations between legacy brands introduce groundbreaking design elements that can redefine luxury fashion offerings.
