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Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 990v4 MADE in USA | Image: New Balance

Sneaker News #104 – New Balance and Joe Freshgoods Go Back to Black


Welcome to Sneaker News #104. This week, Chicago streetwear legend Joe Freshgoods teamed up with New Balance again for the MADE in USA 990v4, likely to be this week’s hottest drop. Also on the radar is Nike’s Air Max 1 ’86 ‘Summit White and Phantom’, paying homage to design legacy. Meanwhile, Nike brings back childhood memories with the LeBron 4 Fruity PEBBLES and Nike and Jacquemus have another J Force 1 colourway ready to go. Check that all out plus more below.

Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 990v4 MADE in USA | Image: New Balance
Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 990v4 MADE in USA | Image: New Balance

Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 990v4 MADE in USA

Chicago streetwear legend Joe Freshgoods teams with New Balance once again for the MADE in USA 990v4. The drop pairs a timeless black-and-white palette with the sleek lines and varied textures of the 2016 silhouette. Suede overlays contrast with patent leather underlays, while mesh sections add depth with an inverse colour scheme. Reflective details, JFG branded inserts, and a ‘1998’ printed heel tab add subtle branding touches. The Freshgoods releases always go fast so you’ll have to be at the ready at New Balance on 10th March to be in with a chance.

Nike Air Max 1 '86 'Summit White and Phantom' | Image: Nike
Nike Air Max 1 ’86 ‘Summit White and Phantom’ | Image: Nike

Nike Air Max 1 ’86 ‘Summit White and Phantom’

Nike pays homage to its iconic designer Tinker Hatfield with the release of the Air Max 1 ’86. This edition of the Air Max 1, first envisioned as a work of art, showcases the layers that introduced visible Nike Air cushioning to the world. Crafted with marbled Summit White suede and Phantom suede accents, the design houses a certain sculptural aesthetic. Available from March 9th at Nike.

Nike LeBron 4 Fruity PEBBLES | Image: Nike
Nike LeBron 4 Fruity PEBBLES | Image: Nike

Nike LeBron 4 Fruity PEBBLES

Nike brings a taste of nostalgia with the release of the LeBron 4 Fruity PEBBLES. This ultra-colourful iteration pays homage to LeBron’s cherished childhood cereal, capturing the essence of his favourite morning treat. Reviving the iconic 2006 player exclusive, the shoe features a crisp white Foamposite upper that looks like a splash of milk. The “FAMILY SIZE” text on the pull tab is a nice tribute to loved ones around the breakfast table too. Get ready to cop these on March 7th at Nike. \

Nike J Force 1 'Earth' | Image: Nike
Nike J Force 1 ‘Earth’ | Image: Nike

Nike J Force 1 ‘Earth’

Nike and Jacquemus are back at it again with the new J Force 1 silhouette. It’s a fusion of sophistication and luxurious charm. Hand-woven modifications to the AF-1 upper seamlessly blend with the sole, creating a silhouette that feels both familiar and new. Noteworthy details include inverted logos on the Waffle sole, so you can leave a Jacqemus imprint wherever you go. Luxury accents like an understated metal Swoosh and “JF1” dubrae elevate the design’s refinement. The rich Earth colourway, complemented by bright Tour Yellow accents, Pecan webbing, and a Sail outsole, are a harmony of colours. Cop a pair at Nike right now.

New Balance WRPD Runner 'Dark Olivine with Sea Salt' | Image: New Balance
New Balance WRPD Runner ‘Dark Olivine with Sea Salt’ | Image: New Balance

New Balance WRPD Runner ‘Dark Olivine with Sea Salt’

The New Balance WRPD Runner unveils a groundbreaking design ethos, blending exaggerated proportions with minimalist elegance. Its sculpted FuelCell midsole and wavy accents on the knit upper manage to look both sensible and boundary-pushing. Drawing from heritage models, elements are ingeniously warped and seamlessly integrated, offering a fresh take on classic New Balance runners. The result is a shoe that feels both familiar and innovative, poised to make a lasting impact as a style staple. Get this latest drop at New Balance right now.

Nike Air Jordan 4 Retro 'Black/Fire Red-Cement Grey' | Image: Nike
Nike Air Jordan 4 Retro ‘Black/Fire Red-Cement Grey’ | Image: Nike

Nike Air Jordan 4 Retro ‘Black/Fire Red-Cement Grey’

Nike revisits the iconic Air Jordan 4 ‘Bred’, infusing it with a contemporary twist. Departing from its on-court origins, this iteration swaps Durabuck for full-grain leather, catering to the demands of modern lifestyle aesthetics. Nike has meticulously refined the shoe’s shape and fit, aligning it more closely with the revered ’89 release. Attention to detail reigns supreme, evident in the precise collab shape and the resurrection of the coveted “Nike Air” branding on the heel. Head to Up There right now to join the collab and be in with a shot.

Salomon Speedcross 3 | Image: Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 3 | Image: Salomon

Salomon Speedcross 3

Salomon introduces a new array of colours to their iconic trail running shoe, the Speedcross 3, in its latest update. Renowned for its lightweight construction, ample cushioning, and superior grip, the Speedcross 3 is a technical masterpiece that’s also making waves in the fashion world. Its hallmark features include an aggressive lug pattern for maximum traction, Sensifit construction combined with Quicklace for a precise foothold, and a protective band around the foot base for all-terrain defence. It’s the bright, bold colours with the Y2K detailing that’s likely to catch the attention of streetwear lovers. You can grab a pair from Subtype right now.