Whenever a sneaker has a good story, the community tends to fall in love with it just that little bit more. Over the years, New Balance has often created sneakers that are built with a sense of purpose. Special edition sneakers for the likes of Liverpool F.C. or even collaborations with the likes of Ronnie Fieg have all helped NB create shoes that are highly coveted. Now, NB is teaming up with Toddy Snyder to drop a 997 inspired by tennis.
Dubbed the “Chalk Stripe” 997, the sneaker is an ode to tennis stars of the 70s. In Snyder’s own words, the shoe takes reference from “when being a tennis star meant having equally adept footwork at the baseline by day and at the disco by night. As the 997 is a sporty silhouette, it makes perfect sense that its the model of choice for the collab.
Draped white mesh and leather with a grey suede overlay, its simplicity is what makes this NB 997 so effective. Up close, the use of faux snake leather on the tongue and ankle adds an element of luxury. The familiar ENCAP midsole unit makes the sneaker comfortable too. A gum support section on the heel unit also references the court, a subtle detail that really works.
This is certainly one New Balance that you could add to your daily rotation. Check out the images below and let us know if you plan on copping these.
Image Source: Todd Snyder
