A Closer Look at the Archival New Balance ML850YSC

After getting a first look at the New Balance ML850YSC earlier this month, we now have a closer look at the nostalgic model. The New Balance ML850 had been on hiatus since 1996 until Aimé Leon Dore exclusively revived the model in its original colorway back in June. The ML850YSC initially released at Aimé Leon Dore’s Mulberry Street location on June 28, followed by a release from Bodega on August 17.

The New Balance 850 originally debuted in 1996 as one of the brand’s first intentional moves towards a younger audience. Even though the 850 clearly falls under the ‘dad shoe’ label by today’s standards, at the time the silhouette’s release marked a radical shift away from the category. Besides its graphic paneling, the 850 is most known as being the first New Balance model to replace the brand’s “N” branding on the upper with the now-iconic “NB” branding on the tongue and heel. The 850 was also dubbed unisex to further establish its modern concept.

The revived New Balance ML850YSC stays true to the 850’s original form while highlighting the “NB” branding in gold embroidery on the tongue and lateral heel. In contrast, the rest of the original colorway is white with various black, white and blue paneled detailing. Suede and leather overlays decorate the upper, adding the textures that dad shoe lovers crave. A white midsole with a black outsole adds familiarity, while the removal of any midsole branding keeps the ML850YSC fresh from the rest of New Balance’s range.

For those who missed the initial drops, END. will see a release on September 3 for $125 USD. In the meantime, those eager to secure a pair can enter the retailer’s online drawing.

Elsewhere in footwear, take a look at the best sneaker releases this week has to offer.