We look back at a 2009 New Balance collaboration from one of Denmark’s premier boutiques, Norse Projects. The Danish boutique brand is known for their clean styling and classic styling–this sneaker followed that model. The search was on for a silhouette that would match up perfectly with their own apparel for the Fall/Winter season; the decision was to work on the M670. The model was one of a few that don Made in England indicator, the Union Jack on the tongue tag.
For their first project with New Balance their sneaker design stayed in their wheel house. Norse Projects decided to keep it simple and clean with inspiration from a similar colorway that was used on NB sneaks in the late 80’s. A look that could be worn everyday and in many different situations, just like their apparel.
Hand crafted by some of their best factory workers only the best was used on the sneaker. The upper consisted of the proven combination of premium suede and mesh in deep green hues and navy. Lighter blue was used on the side logo, laces and a sliver on the midsole. 3M finishes off the look, making an appearance around the N logo and heel tab. So simple that the design it doesn’t even have any indication of being a collaboration. Sold in limited quantities in the European market, finding a pair now can be quite difficult.
Nick Engvall
Aaron Nojima