A Closer Look at the Concepts x New Balance 998 "Grand Tourer"

We already unveiled the latest collaboration between premium boutique Concepts and sportswear imprint New Balance on December 21, but we now get a closer look at the offering inspired by luxury automobile endurance racing. Employing the 998 “Made in USA” model, the largely earthy palette is accented with vibrant hits of red, sea green and blue. Drawing aesthetic cues from European road maps, race stickers and flags, and even interior car design, Concepts’ last collaborative project of the year is a dynamic ode to classic automobile motifs. Constructed with luxe pigskin suede and complementing perforated suede panels, a reflective underlay beneath the ‘N’ insignia and faux-carbon fiber detailing on the heel support rounds off the look.

To accompany the 998 sneaker release, Concepts has also partnered with Period Correct on a limited edition range of clothing and special in-store releases at PC’s Costa Mesa boutique. Set against a custom-designed backdrop elevated with an immersive installation, the Concepts NYC Store will be working in tandem with neighboring Classic Car Club on a dynamic customer experience that includes a race car simulator and interactive walk-through featuring rare vehicles. The premier collaboration, including the “Grand Tourer” release, will be available for in-store purchase starting at 10:00 a.m. EST & PST on December 26 at its Cambridge and New York locations, as well as its California pop-up shop located at Period Correct Atelier in Costa Mesa. Online sales will commence at the Concepts website at 12:00 p.m. EST on December 26 and will include complimentary domestic shipping.