New Balance Tokyo Design Studio joined forces with outdoor label Snow Peak once again to create a singular two-way sandal. Yes, it’s a unique feature and it’s actually the first one ever to be created: the Niobium Concept 2 can be worn as a mule or as a sandal too.
After collaborating many times in the past, the Japan-based labels have unveiled their forth capsule together, which adapts for both the streets and the trails. Although it’s a release without precedents, it’s not the first time that Snow Peak and New Balance have explored this concept, as they had already released an almost twin design with the Niobium Concept 1.
What distinguishes the first concept from the most recent one? The latest Niobium offers a fresh foam cushioning on the sole and New Balance’s magnetic Fidlock buckles on the upper strings. The design is perfect for the summer days as it provides breathability and durability, thanks to the use of ventilated mesh in the construction and the use of synthetic leathers along the toe and mudguard, respectively.
Maybe the Niobium Concept 1 was a little bit more versatile, yet number 2 definitely looks more resistant. When it comes to color shades, Snow Peak and New Balance have opted for dark, neutral colors such as a classical black and a distinctive deep olive tone. Two straps in the color beige also cross both feet.
New Balance and Snow Peak’s latest capsule is a technical and comfortable piece of footwear, and it’s very easy for the user to transform it. The Niobium Concept 2 will be available for the Japanese audience as of this Friday 25th and it will hit global markets on July 2nd.
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