New Balance and Basketcase's New Sneaker Is Inspired by Trail Runs and Nature Walks
Fueling the gorpcore fantasy in brown leather with rope laces.
New Balance and Basketcase are back together again, unveiling a new 204L sneaker after their debut launch during Paris Fashion Week in June. The last pair was all grey and pony hair, but this winter drop is a cozy ode to hiking trails. Drawing inspiration from Basketcase founder Zach Kinninger’s roots and small town living, the New Balance 204L “Pine Valley” is full of nostalgia and nods to muddy paths and nature reserves.
The sneaker features a brown nubuck leather upper, meant to be worn the same way many casually wore hiking shoes with jeans in the early 2000s. Traditional hiking-inspired accents maintain the rugged, outdoorsy theme, from interchangeable rope and yarn laces, to revamped eyelets and flannel insoles.
To bring the “Pine Valley” 204L to life, the brands launched the “RUN HOME” campaign and poster series, photographed by Ben Zank. “RUN HOME” is Basketcase’s take on traditional New Balance ads, with moody lighting and nostalgic styling adding personality to an already one-of-a-kind shoe. A short film focusing on suburban America seals the deal, directed by Mowgly Lee.
The New Balance x Basketcase 204L will be available to purchase exclusively via the Basketcase website on December 12, and worldwide from New Balance starting December 19.
In other news, Nike and Vaquera’s new lipstick-stained sneaker came straight from the beauty counter.
