New Balance Preps Convertible TDS Niobium Concept 1 Sneaker for General Release
First seen as a Snow Peak collaboration, the shoe now drops with apparel.
New Balance‘s forward-thinking Tokyo Design Studio imprint has imagined some stunning sneakers but even among those, its recent its Snow Peak collaboration is a clear standout. Now, the TDS Niobium Concept 1 sneaker is set to see general release, complete with a set of matching garment-dyed apparel and bags.
Drawing from the classic MT801, the TDS Niobium Concept 1 is three shoes in one. The mid-top silhouette can be unzipped to create a laceless slip-on and from there, the inner bootie can be removed to create a camp-ready slipper. The waterproof exterior of the sneaker ensures multi-season adaptability, with bright yellow and muted black colorways that yield wholly different looks.
Functional bags and apparel accompany the new TDS Niobium Concept 1 colorways, including sets of beige and black. The garments are designed to minimize seams for all-day comfort and genderless elasticity. Woven textiles are both breathable and sweat-wicking, featuring minimal branding for a low-key look.
Similarly, the accompanying bags are inspired by utility and are ready for anything the ourdoors can offer. A drawstring-gathered mesh pouch and sturdy canvas cotton tote are realized in faded black shades and intelligent textiles; the tote, for instance, features breathable eVent lining to match the sneakers. To lighten a hiker’s load, the tote can even be tucked inside the pouch, sealed inside by the removable shoulder strap.
Expect the TDS Niobium Concept Sneaker and apparel to launch at the Japanese stores cited on Tokyo Design Studio’s website on September 12 and with the international stores likely to receive the goods later.
Most recently, New Balance revived its chunky 2002 running sneaker.
