Stone Island Takes Inspiration From One of Its Oldest Fabrics on One of New Balance’s Most Classic Sneakers
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A Stone Island fabric from more than 40 years ago is meeting a New Balance sneaker with more than 30 years under its belt for the latest collaboration from the two brands.
The Stone Island x New Balance 998 Made in USA takes inspiration from the Italian brand’s Raso Gomatto fabric, which was first introduced in 1984, just two years into the label’s history. The satin weave cotton with a military origin and polyurethane film isn’t actually used on the forthcoming sneaker, but it did inform the new cotton canvas with rubberized polyurethane coating used on it, making the 998 one of the most Stone Island-looking of Stone Island’s collaborations to date.
A rustic look defines the 998 utilizing the aforementioned fabric for its base and nubuck for its overlays. One glance indicates a predominantly tonal brown look for its upper, but different angles and lighting conditions can suggest more silver and grey. A reflective “N” logo, heel tab and select panels throughout the upper come to life when hit with life, and a nylon tongue hosts a woven Stone Island Compass logo. Beneath the translucent outsole reads the text, “Stone Island Product Research.”
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The 998 is Stone Island’s first New Balance sneaker to feature Made in USA construction, following several made in New Balance’s Flimby factory in the UK.
New Balance introduced the 998 in 1993, nine years after the launch of Stone Island’s Roso Gomatto fabric and its distinct looks coming from its two layers. Its the fifth model in the 99X series and the first-ever New Balance sneaker to make use of Abzorb cushioning.
The Stone Island x New Balance 998 Made in USA will release exclusively through select Stone Island stores and its website. Sign-ups to purchase through the latter route opened March 10 and require a MyStoneIsland account. Pricing is set at $285.
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