This year, New Balance’s Tokyo Design Studio presented a very successful model, the R_C 1300. Inspired by the NB which celebrates its 35th anniversary this year, the 1300, and taking advantage of the latest technological innovations, this sneaker was dressed for its first appearance in April, in bright and asymmetrical colors. We have seen the interest that it has aroused among renowned designers such as the brain behind KITH, Ronnie Fieg or the founder of AIME LEON DORE, Teddy Santis, who have both recently posted their own version of this model on Instagram.
While waiting to learn more about these potential collaborations, we discover today a R_C 1300 in « Washed Grey and Blue » colorway.
This colour, more discreet than the previous one which inaugurated the model, is a must at New Balance. Grey remains the NB colour par excellence, engraved in the brand’s DNA and reminiscent of « dad shoes ». The upper is made of blue-grey premium quality mesh and overlays of faded grey pig suede for a marbled effect. The tongue, lining, heel tab and the unmistakable N logo on the side of the shoe are made of high-quality grey smooth leather. To add care to the elegant design of the pair, the outline of the N is made of blue leather and the grey laces blend into the tongue of the same colour. The R_C 1300 model name is highlighted by its large print on the white tag.
The dark insole features Tokyo Design Studio New Balance branding and to add contrast, the support section on the heel is cream, the midsole white and the outsole black.
In terms of innovations, this sole represents the most visible update to the original 80s model. ENCAP REVEAL and ABZORB cushioning techniques are combined in the midsole, providing balance, cushioning and optimal support. This comfort is complemented by the VIBRAM lugged outsole for maximum traction even on the most slippery surfaces.
To find out more about this top-of-the-range model, a quick digression :
New Balance’s Tokyo Design Studio is guided by the Japanese proverb “Not seeing is a flower”, whose idea is that reality does not compete with fiction. The four pillars of this collection are precision, nature, craftsmanship in sport and protection. All of this is driven by a Japanese sensibility that considers authenticity and quality to be essential.
Thus, its products are top-of-the-range, seeking excellence through imagination and innovation by reworking ancient resources. The desire is to create a fusion of performance technology with pure contemporary design, while preserving the brand’s sporting DNA.
The NEW BALANCE TOKYO DESIGN STUDIO R_C1300 « Washed Grey and Blue » will be available on 23 May 2020 on the NewBalance.com website for a recommended retail price of €150. However, raffle registrations are now open on some partner shop sites such as END. HANON, TITOLO, SNS or 24 KILATES.
