YCMC x New Balance 990v5 "Big Checks and No Stress" Is Perfect for Tax Season

In celebration of federal tax refund season, YCMC and New Balance are continuing a long-running partnership with a special 990v5 “Big Checks and No Stress.” Taking its cues from the highly-anticipated tax checks themselves, the design is undeniably all about the Benjamins, but also nods to the spirit of ambition one usually needs to achieve financial success.

Constructed from a mix of sporty mesh and luxurious pig suede, this made-in-the-US sneaker is equal parts style and substance. The mesh base offers a cool gradient fade, starting with a teal heel that eventually gives way to an airy white toebox. This chilly gradient is continued on the TPU strap by the collar plus the midfoot’s signature “N” logo. The aforementioned pig suede pieces are split between teal on the heel and tan on the midfoot and forefoot.

This marks the first time the 990v5 has received a gradient treatment, and it’s played up further by two sets of laces — teal or red — dark navy trim and toebox overlays, and a shock-absorbing silver and white ENCAP midsole. The inspiration even extends onto the packaging, as the “Big Checks and No Stress” comes with a faux refund check, security-printed tissue paper and an envelope-esque shopping bag. It’s also accompanied by special New Balance tees, sweatshirts, sweatpants and leggings, all of which use the same graceful gradient details.

The YCMC x New Balance 990v5 “Big Checks and No Stress” will release on the YCMC webstore and at Shoe City locations on March 6. Men’s sizes retail at $175 USD, while grade school, toddler and preschool sizes are priced at $100 USD, $80 USD and $60 USD, respectively.

If you prefer gradients of a warm nature, New Balance has also prepped a “Sundown” collection, with sweltering takes on Kawhi Leonard’s OMN1S as well as the 997S and 850.