TOKYO DESIGN STUDIO New Balance Introduces Two New Colorways for the Niobium Concept 1
A seasonal “LIGHT BROWN” and an original-inspired “TRIPLE BLACK” join the lineup, with an early release at DSMG’s Open House.
Launched in 2018 by a design team comprising members from the US and Japan, TOKYO DESIGN STUDIO New Balance (TDS New Balance)—a lifestyle brand under the New Balance umbrella—brought back the Niobium Concept 1 in June 2026 for the first time since its original release in 2020. As the second wave of this revival, two new colorways, “LIGHT BROWN” and “TRIPLE BLACK,” will launch globally at select retailers on Friday, October 30, following an exclusive early release at DOVER STREET MARKET GINZA’s “OPEN HOUSE” event on Saturday, October 24.
The Niobium Concept 1 is a conceptual footwear model built on the sole unit of New Balance’s MT801 trail running shoe, paired with an interchangeable two-part upper structure. By swapping out the booties—which feature a breathable, waterproof eVent® membrane—and the mule-style lining, the shoe transforms into three different styles: a waterproof boot, an outdoor mule, and an indoor slipper. It offers the functionality and versatility to adapt to various environments, from the outdoors to traveling and relaxing indoors. The model name “Niobium” derives from niobium, a metal represented by atomic number 41 and the symbol Nb. The design takes inspiration from the material’s characteristics: it boasts a high melting point and strength, yet can take on a multitude of colors through surface treatments and adapt to changes in shape through processing. Embodying the TDS New Balance product philosophy, the shoe integrates the contradictory elements of robustness and transformability into a design that changes form according to its intended use.
This release offers two colors: a seasonal “LIGHT BROWN” and a “TRIPLE BLACK” that follows the 2020 original colorway. The stretch ripstop upper is paired with bonded PU overlays, and a zip-closure system is utilized on the tongue and heel. Details engineered for functionality, such as a neoprene collar, EVA midsole, and rubber outsole, also define the shoe. The price is ¥44,000 (tax included). Available sizes range from 26.0 to 29.0 cm, as well as 30.0 cm, and each pair comes in a custom shoebox.
Stockist List
T-HOUSE New Balance DSM Ginza (Tokyo)
T-HOUSE New Balance (Tokyo)
New Balance Roppongi 19:06 (Tokyo)
& Dice & Dice supported by TOKYO DESIGN STUDIO New Balance (Fukuoka)
New Balance Online StoreOther select TDS New Balance retailers
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