06/27/08
Text: Nik Mercer
Some of the most lasting companies around us today have gone through major face lifts. Before making cars, Toyota developed sewing machines; Honda honed its technical skills through motorcycle specialization before branching out into automobile production. Similarly, Boston's New Balance began as an "arch-support company" in the early-1900s but morphed into a specialized shoe manufactured when the 70s rolled around.
In the thirty or so years since N.B. started making tennis shoes, it's experienced several minor progressions, too. The products were initially for runners but quickly became sought-after shoes—a la Dr. Martens—despite the fact that old men and athletes represented the bulk of their consumer base. In the past ten years or so, though, New Balance has taken control of its "hipster cred" with several lines of especially attractive sneakers that buyers can rest assured their grandparents don't own. Now, the company's debuted the 420 Vintage Running Collection, a line of 70s pieces revamped and tinkered with for a suaver, younger generation. The kicks are injected with hearty doses of bright color, constructed with premium materials, and offered for the very affordable price of $55!
Itching to get your own pair yet? Flip through the sample images in the media player to the right, and we promise you'll resolve to pick a few of these bad boys up.
