Concepts and New Balance Reboots the Classic 999 "Kennedy"

Concepts have just announced that the product of its OG collaboration with New Balance is getting a remake. The famous nautically-themed 999 ”Kennedy” is getting a new and improved look with the “Hyannis” colorway. Originally making its debut back in 2011, the 999 was inspired by the sailing culture of President Kennedy’s native New England. The silhouette was the first collaboration between the two Boston-based brands and it would prove to be a landmark moment for both — sparking years of collaborative projects. It’s also considered a major moment in the development of “the now-common sub-genre of story-driven, premium quality retro running shoes.”

Now the legendary 999 sneaker is back, and it arguably surpasses its predecessor. The silhouette’s layout has been completely reconstructed with New Balance’s acclaimed Made in USA quality — a novel moment for the model, which has usually been made overseas. The upper is built from a collection of beige, grey, off-white and blue suede panels, while the midsole and outsole are a triptych of grey, off-white and white. The shoe is given its nautical feel thanks to the lining and laces that feature blue and red sea-faring graphics. The new 999 “Kennedy” by Concepts officially features the “Hyannis” colorway in homage of the Cape Cod region that President Kennedy often frequented.

The Concepts x New Balance 999 “Kennedy’ will be dropping exclusively at ComplexCon on November 4.