Expert Advice

The Comeback of the New Balance 550

May 22, 2023

It’s hard being the younger, lesser-known kid on the basketball court. The last one picked because you’re just not as popular as the all-star players. That was the story of the New Balance 550 in the late ’80s. Despite its solid design, this sneak, created by legendary designer Steve Smith, didn’t perform as well with sneakerheads and ballers compared to its Nike, Jordan and adidas counterparts, so it took a back seat while the bigger basketball brands shined.

But nearly 30 years later, the New Balance 550 style is reemerging and quickly becoming one of today’s most sought-after sneaks. Here’s what you need to know about these trendy New Balance shoes that are turning heads.

New Balance Hype

In 2020, when the rest of the world was experiencing a COVID-19 tailspin, New York men’s fashion designer Teddy Santis teamed up with Joe Grondon, the senior manager of global collaborations at New Balance. Later that year, the two announced a collaboration between Santis’ Aime Leon Dore brand and New Balance to revitalize the 550 featuring the release of four new colorways branding them with the tagline “International Friendship Through Basketball.” 

A second release in 2021 saw even more colorways with the rejuvenated New Balance 550 style appearing on the famous feet of artists and influencers such as Rhianna, Justin Bieber, Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid, grabbing the attention of sneakerheads everywhere. Additionally, the new 550s caught the eye of Rich Paul, founder of Klutch Sports Group and longtime friend and agent of LeBron James.

Some of Our Favorite New Balance 550 Styles

Whether you’re dressing in New Balance from toe to head or you simply need a fashionable and comfortable everyday shoe, we have the 550s that suit your style:

Wait, Before You Go!

Be a part of the New Balance hype, and secure your New Balance 550 sneaks. Visit a Hibbett | City Gear store near you or shop online today to fill out your sneak collection with these coveted new kicks.

Want more inspiration? Visit our Unboxed blog and YouTube channel.

Be a part of the New Balance hype, and secure your New Balance 550 sneaks. Visit a Hibbett | City Gear store near you or shop online today to fill out your sneak collection with these coveted new kicks.

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