Joe Freshgoods and his limitless creativity are back with the Boston firm on a new pack called "1998". This new collection, which has already generated strong reactions among sneakerheads, draws inspiration from the iconic 1998 film "Belly", directed by Hype Williams and starring icons such as Nas, DMX and Method Man. The film is notably recognized for its opening scene at the Tunnel Night Club in New York, bathed in a captivating blue light.
Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 990v4 "Intro"
BuyJoe Freshgoods x New Balance 990v4 "Outro"
BuyJoe Freshgoods x New Balance 990v4 "Keisha Blue"
BuyTwo of the pack's pairs were teased a few weeks ago on the designer's Instagram page, through a photo referencing the cover of the 1999 XXL magazine "Murder Inc" issue featuring Ja Rule, Jay-Z and DMX. The pairs will likely be accompanied by a clothing collection incorporating the film's codes and the 90s vibe.
Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 990v4 "1998"
Far from the pastel and bright color palettes the Chicago-based designer has offered us before, this new pack is no less compelling. A dedicated storyteller for his various drops, JFG once again manages to surprise us, even while proposing more understated colorways. The pack is composed of three pairs, with two black & white iterations and one blue.
The JFG x NB 990V4 "Intro" features a black mesh base that highlights the white hairy suede overlays. As for the "Outro" version, it is the complete opposite of the previous pair, this time with a white mesh base paired with black suede and patent leather panels. The large "N" on the quarter panel adopts an immaculate shade, as do the various inscriptions surrounding the upper.
This third iteration of the pack named "Keisha Blue" stands out from the others with its monochromatic look, which was not chosen at random. Indeed, this captivating colorway references the famous Tunnel Night Club scene from the cult film. Still composed of mesh, leather and suede, this sneaker carries a bit more of Joe Freshgoods' identity, notably with its pastel blue laces that match the tongue branding and the "1998" and "Made in the USA" inscriptions proudly displayed on the heel tab.
Finally, all three models feature a supremely comfortable sole thanks to the ENCAP midsole, found in several other silhouettes from the Boston-based brand.
According to initial information, the pack is expected to release in December 2023 on the Joe Freshgoods website and likely afterwards on New Balance. Pricing details for each pair have not yet been confirmed.
How does the New Balance 990v4 fit?
If you're wondering how the New Balance 990v4 fits, the answer is: true to size! However, if you have narrow feet, we recommend going half a size down from your usual size.
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