Author
Ellen Eberhardt
Photographer
Courtesy New Balance x Parks Project
Just in time for spring, New Balance and Parks Project recently teamed up in an unexpected collaboration to drop a refreshing collection of apparel and a revamped trail sneakers for the city-dwelling nature-lover. Featuring laid-back, casual cuts in an earthy green and lavender palette, the mini collection celebrates urban green spaces through an ethos centered on exploring and connecting with what natural areas are at hand, equipping customers with the gear to look and feel good while bopping between local city parks.
Besides utilitarian-inspired woven pants ($80) and characteristic Parks Project graphic tees ($45) in retro wintergreen and mushroom brown colors, the collection reimagines the popular New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 ($160) off-road sneaker and Packable Anorak Jacket ($140) in a similar palette for eye-catching effects.
The revamped Hierro v7's design gives thoughtful nods to its urban green space inspiration. Outfitted in lush green, the trail shoe features a fuzzy, grass-like suede toe and heel overlays, while the signature New Balance "N" depicts a tiny city grid layout.
The shoe is constructed for varying terrain and is equipped with lightweight synthetic knit uppers, cushioned Fresh Foam midsoles, and rugged Vibram tread. Insoles covered in a colorful, graphic illustration of a city park round out the whole footwear experience.
Elsewhere, the Packable Anorak Jacket is made of 100% upcycled deadstock saved from landfills. Featuring a bold, color-blocked design of steely grey and lavender, the windbreaker channels vintage quarter-zips of decades past while a packable pocket transforms the whole thing into a cross-body bag for modern-day style.
The first ever collaboration between the two brands, the mini-collection strikes a successful balance between Park Project's laid-back California vibes and New Balance's New England running roots. The pieces are casual, kinda fun, pretty technical, and ultimately well-done—which makes for an ideal fit for a day at the park.
Published 04-03-2023
