The famous Japanese label BAPE continues its collaborative momentum. After recently adding its touch to the mythical adidas Superstar and presenting an apparel collection designed with the American rapper Kid Cudi (articles available on this site), BAPE has teamed up for the very first time with the equipment manufacturer New Balance.
To celebrate this first association, BAPE chose to re-imagine the silhouette of the Boston-based brand that is gaining in popularity, the NB 2002R. Inaugurated by the former vice president of footwear at Versace, designer Salehe Bembury, the silhouette has since attracted the attention of several labels. This shoe is not a simple reissue of the NB 2002 « Made in USA » of 2001. It retains original elements while benefiting from the latest technologies.
According to the first images that appeared on the social media, this NB 2002R is available in three color options.
It’s made of premium materials and features the key elements of Nigo’s brand : the Camo pattern, the shark teeth and the shooting star logo usually found on the Bapesta.
These sneakers consist of a mesh base covered with BAPE’s signature camo pattern, combined with black, beige or grey suede overlays depending on the version. On the grey pair, the camo pattern appears in tone-on-tone, for a more discreet look. Shark teeth adorn the back of the heel and the shooting star logo is discreetly affixed to the front of the laceguard. To complete the design, the emblematic N logo remains in its usual place on the side panels and the laces appear in a color matching the overlays. The whole is based on a harmoniously colored midsole, which combines ABZORB technology with NERGY cushioning. A black outsole provides the finishing touch.
The BAPE x New Balance 2002R is scheduled for release in April 2021 at New Balance retailers and online on the websites of the two partners newbalance.com and bape.com. We will keep you informed of the official details, stay tuned !
