Talk about two worlds colliding. Athletic brand New Balance and classic British label Grenson have collaborated on a luxe sneaker style, proving that the gap between athleisure and high-end fashion is narrowing further.
The “Made in England 576GRB” sneaker, which retails for $438 USD, will be available on Jan. 9 in Grenson’s stores and on its e-commerce website. Limited pairs will also be available at select specialty retailers.
The low-top runner is a luxe take on New Balance’s sporty silhouette, done in a burnished brown calkfskin leather with broguing perforations. The shoe was also a shared endeavor during the production process — it’s produced both in Grenson’s Northampton factory and New Balance’s factory in Flimby, Cumbria.
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“This was probably my favorite project at Grenson because it combined the shoemaking skills of two great factories and two great brands,” said Tim Little, Grenson’s owner and creative director. “It sends a message that British manufacturing is alive and kicking, and also that companies can work together when they have great respect for each other.”
“It’s testament to both brands that we have been able to work on a project as complex as this, across two factories and skill sets, to deliver a truly unique product that we feel represents the very best of British footwear manufacturing,” added Andy Okolowicz, the U.K. factory manager for New Balance.
This isn’t the first time Grenson has teamed with an unlikely partner. Last year, it collaborated with Nick Wooster on a line of men’s shoes.
For spring ’16, Grenson also introduced its G:One collection, which offers dress styles at a lower price point than its main line.
