New Balance x Nine West for Spring 2009

New Balance and Nine West are set to announce a partnership to create a co-branded line of women’s shoes named New Balance for Nine West.

Nine West said the collection gives the consumer more performance options.

“It’s for a woman who wants to have some fashion with her technology,” said Andy Cohen, Nine West CEO of footwear, accessories and retail. “I don’t think we have had that in the market for her.”

Spring 2009 will see the launch of up to 20 new $79-and-up styles at selected Nine West, New Balance and boutique locations. NineWest.com will host a microsite dedicated to the line.

While the exact number of SKUs that will comprise the inaugural spring ’09 collection has yet to be finalized (the target is near 20), the lineup currently includes sneaker looks — many built on existing New Balance platforms, including the 410 running style — slip-ons, ballet flats and sandals.

All the shoes were built, Allard said, to emphasize a feeling of lightness and femininity. Materials include transparent shells, T-shirt-inspired jersey and premium leathers. In keeping with the styles’ athletic DNA, a premium was placed on breathability and comfort, with New Balance shoes’s proprietary Abzorb cushioning and memory foam materials used in several styles.

via Footwear News

NB H710J x Samurai Magazine x Mita Sneakers

Hypebeast reports on a new 710-model collaboration between New Balance shoes, Samurai Magazine and Mita. Available now at Mita Japan in black premium leather and multi-color suede versions, proving again that they are not ones to shy away from bold colors!

From what I can glean of the translation there are 7 colors which represent the 7th anniversary of Samurai Mag. The traditional hiking / mountaineering model is recast here as an urban boot for the city.

Via Hypebeast