WTAPS Reimagines the New Balance 1300 in Tactical Black
The Japanese streetwear label delivers a blacked-out silhouette with subtle white branding.
Name: WTAPS x New Balance 1300 “Black”
Colorway: Black/White-Black Cement
SKU: U1300WT
MSRP: $295 USD
Release Date: February 20, 2026
Where to Buy: New Balance
WTAPS is bringing its tactical precision back to New Balance. In a shift toward darker, more controlled aesthetics, the Japanese streetwear stalwart has unveiled its latest collaboration: a reworked New Balance 1300. Eschewing the noise of trend-driven designs, this partnership focuses on restraint, delivering a heritage runner that feels sharper and more utilitarian than its predecessors.
The design ethos is defined by balance and subtlety. Black leather overlays dominate the build, paired with breathable mesh sections that maintain the silhouette’s structural integrity without feeling overworked. The iconic “N” logo on the side is rendered tonally, blending quietly into the upper rather than demanding attention. This stealthy approach allows the shape of the 1300—a longtime favorite of connoisseurs—to do the talking.
The monochromatic theme is broken only where necessary. A clean white leather tab at the heel cuts through the blackout finish, stamped with WTAPS branding for a stark, deliberate contrast. Inside, co-branded insoles provide a hidden layer of detail.
Underfoot, the ENCAP midsole is fully blacked out, maintaining the sleek profile. However, the outsole introduces a more rugged edge with deeper traction, leaning slightly more functional than typical lifestyle iterations. This shift feels intentional, aligning with WTAPS’ military-inspired philosophy. The WTAPS x New Balance 1300 (U1300WT) is scheduled to release on February 20, 2026.
