Crafted with the iconic GORE-TEX waterproof material, this contemporary reinterpretation of the timeless 580 offers defense against wind, showers, and moisture whilst paying homage to it's originator that debuted in 1966. The 580 stands out prominently in New Balance's legacy, not solely due to its robust, Rollbar-furnished, trail-inspired structure. Originating as a lesser-known, localized variation of the 585, the 580 started gaining attention as it became a staple on the fashion-forward avenues of Harajuku, capturing the gaze of onlookers.
New Balance 580 - A Brief History
In 1996, the 580s emerged as the Japanese rendition of the esteemed Made in USA 585's, presenting itself as a model that stirred mixed sentiments within the market upon its initial debut. Flaunting an audacious design, boasting a robust upper that starkly diverged from the customary sleek, runner-style models prevalent at the time, it invoked a dichotomy of admiration and aversion among consumers in Japan. Despite the presence of its 'rollbar' carbon fibre midsole, widely recognized for offering top-tier traction during that era, the 580 appeared to be on a trajectory towards fleeting prominence, seemingly poised to vanish as swiftly as it burst onto the scene. However, this juncture did not mark the demise of this robust sneaker; rather, it hinted at a different narrative yet to unfold.
Despite its initial reception falling short of expectations, the 580 managed to garner admiration among the more avant-garde youth frequenting Harajuku due to its bold and captivating visual appeal. Nonetheless, owing to its retail price, which, although lower than the Made in USA versions, still stood higher than the norm, acquiring these contemporary icons remained a notable investment until the moment they entered the sales circuit. As the unsold stock began to see markdowns, fervent devotees of streetwear style, hungry for the latest trends, eagerly seized the opportunity to acquire these coveted shoes, sparking a quiet fervor within select circles across Tokyo where the 580s slowly but surely gained traction. Though it never achieved resounding triumph, the model commenced amassing a modest yet devoted following, thanks in part to the fashion connoisseurs in the Urahara district who played a pivotal role in propelling the sneaker's burgeoning legacy forward.
The reemergence of the 580 in its revamped form heralds the revival of an icon, breathing new life into its legacy. Featuring a contemporary aesthetic with a refined toe silhouette and a trimmed collar height, this iteration seamlessly blends modernized design elements with construction techniques that painstakingly replicate the original materials, compounds, and characteristics to the closest extent achievable by human hands.
Arriving in winter ready colourways of Black & Green, the latest 580's feature an ABZORB midsole which absorbs impact through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance, a C-CAP midsole cushioning delivering durable support & ROLLBAR stability post system helps control rear-foot movement for enhanced support - finished off with a Vibram sole. Shop the latest 580 iterations & our full New Balance collection below, available online & in-store now at Stuarts London.
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