Australian boutique Up There has steadily built a reputation for thoughtfully curated sneaker collaborations, solidifying its place in the global footwear scene. The brand's past projects, like the New Balance 2002R Backyard Legends series, have earned critical acclaim for their distinctive storytelling and design aesthetics. Following collaborations with New Balance and Asics—most recently with the Asics Gel-Terrain—the boutique is set to release its next major project: a special edition New Balance 860v2, scheduled for 2024. This release was first teased during an unboxing video of the yellow pair in the New Balance 991v2 City Exclusive Pack, where Up There’s E-commerce manager Matt Kyte wore this unseen 860v2.
The Up There x New Balance 860v2 infuses the familiar silhouette with a vibrant yet earthy color palette. The sneaker features a blue-grey mesh base as a neutral backdrop for the eye-catching accents. Volt hues pop on the panels around the toe, vamp, eyestays, and midfoot, giving the shoe a dynamic contrast. Forest green tones wrap the midfoot panel and heel, adding depth to the design. The playful use of color continues with pink laces contrasting the brown sockliner and the N logo on the side. Branding for Up There isn't visible initially, though we'll likely see the brand's logo hit the insole. Also included with the sneaker are lace shrouds and three additional lace sets. Completing the look is a clean white foam midsole paired with a blue rubber outsole, rounding out this meticulously crafted collaboration.
As for the story behind the pair, Up There looks to tropes from 2000s-era footwear, mainly the color palette, to inform the design details. Alongside this, the material choice presents a twist to the 860v2, adding more contemporary options like double-layer mesh, neoprene, technical fabrics, and nubuck.
The Up There x New Balance 860v2 will release October 30, 2024 via a raffle hosted by Up There. A global launch will take place on November 1, 2024, through New Balance online. Available in men's sizing, Up There has the paired listed for $171. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Up There x New Balance 860v2
Images via New Balance
Images via Up There
Images via plain_jane_8
Images via Up There
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. Concerts, music, trying new restaurants, and catching the latest movies are some of the things I enjoy when not writing for Sole Retriever. Email: nick@soleretriever.com
