Jovani Hernandez Salehe Bembury isn’t new to the sneaker world, but the last two years have seen him explode in popularity thanks to his New Balance collaborations. For his latest proposition, the American designer has again looked to the great outdoors for inspiration, alone this time landing on the human-made yurt.
Having moved to Los Angeles in 2015 from the “concrete bordo” that is New York City, Bembury has made hiking and camping a standard aspect of his lifestyle. Thus, whether consciously or unconsciously, his first two New Balance 2002R New Balance XC72 colour-block sneakers New balance 373 ml373-bl2, the 30-something-year-old brings the traditional nomadic home of Mongolia to sneaker form. Some semblance of the 1988-design is present in the upcoming release, but the model’s “Yurt” iteration introduces a handful of new materials and layout across the upper. “N” logos remain intact at the profiles, but the same can’t be said about the sole unit, which swaps the rather simple technical runner-oriented arrangement for one that features never-before-seen ABZORB SBS-midsole cushioning and styling. The pod-like detailing, however, isn’t arguably even the most eye-catching of the forthcoming New Balance pair; instead, that distinction has quickly been given to the whistle-reminiscent component protruding at the heel.
An official release date hasn’t been disclosed by Bembury, but the pair is likely to arrive before 2021 ends. In the meantime, enjoy teaser images ahead.
NEW BALANCE 992 MULTI 26cm New balance 373 ml373-bl2 Mid sneakers in pink.
Images: @salehebembury
