To celebrate the 15th anniversary of Kith, the New York label’s founder, Ronnie Fieg, has teamed up with senior New Balance designer Samuel Pearce to create his first signature New Balance model: the 2011. More than just another collaboration, this release represents a milestone moment in one of sneaker culture's most influential partnerships.
Since first working together in 2011, Ronnie Fieg and New Balance have consistently raised the bar for collaborative footwear. From the 99X series and beyond, the duo has delivered some of the most memorable releases of the past decade. Rather than looking back for inspiration this time around, however, they've chosen to create something entirely new.
The New Balance 2011 takes inspiration from the brand's early-2000s running archive, creating a fresh take on heritage design language. Underfoot sits an ABZORB-equipped sole unit derived from the beloved ultra-premium New Balance 2002, also recently seen on the new 1890 model. Meanwhile, the uppers combine colourful layers of suede and leather into a silhouette that feels familiar yet entirely distinct.
The name itself carries special significance. 2011 references the year Kith was founded, turning the silhouette into a tribute to the brand's journey over the last decade and a half. According to Fieg, the project was developed over two years and went through multiple rounds of samples, with every detail refined alongside Pearce before reaching its final form.
Storytelling has always been central to Fieg's work, and that's reflected in the launch colourways. In his extensive design previews, he has revealed pairs dressed in shades such as ‘Leaf Green’ and ‘Sakura Flower’. Both are inspired by the concept of growth, in a nod to Kith’s success and the strength of its partnership with New Balance.
The New Balance 2011 is expected to launch through Kith and New Balance globally on 29 June, as part of the duo's 15th anniversary celebrations. Given the significance of the project, demand is expected to be substantial from both fans and collectors of both brands.
Buy and Sell New Balance x Kith on KLEKT
