New Balance Celebrates Vibrant 850 With Exclusive Ron English Art Toy

New Balance is tapping into its archive with the release of the 850, a sneaker silhouette which debuted 24 years ago. This time, the brand is partnering with celebrated visual artist Ron English for an exclusive 850 Grin art toy, powered by MINDstyle, that celebrates the new 850 look in Hong Kong and the “We Got Now” global campaign. Only 150 pieces of the 4-inch collectible are available worldwide.

Originally released in 1996, the 850 was the first New Balance silhouette to remove the infamous “N” from the upper and replace it with the “NB” logo on the tongue and heel. The latest 850 silhouette combines a “chunky” aesthetic with a low profile, informed by expressive color blocking and premium material overlays. Dressed in bone suede, the shoe boasts blue, purple and pink accenting throughout the upper. English’s collectible is available in the same colorway as the sneaker and features a wide smile in the artist’s signature style.

Beginning March 16, those who purchased pre-selected styles from the last New Balance range can join the online “lucky draw” in a chance to win one Ron English 850 Grin art toy. The draw will end April 16, with winners being announced April 17. To enter the draw or learn more information about it, head over to New Balance’s Hong Kong website.

In other news, Vetements has updated high-top sneakers with a splashy graffiti design and colorful contrast soles.