New Balance Archives - Dave Hooper

New Balance 990v3 Levi’s Denim

Dave Hooper — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 01:24:00 +0000

When Levi’s and New Balance team up, you know it’s going to be something special. Two brands with serious heritage — one known for denim, the other for dad-approved sneakers that somehow became streetwear staples. The New Balance 990v3 Levi’s Denim is exactly that: a meeting of icons that somehow feels both obvious and completely fresh.

The first thing you’ll notice is the denim. Proper Levi’s denim, stitched right into the underlays, and not just some token nod to the collab. It’s the real deal, paired with both smooth suede and hairy suede overlays that give the shoe layers of texture. Up close, the mix of materials is where this pair shines. It feels premium, because it is.

Details are thoughtful without being overdone. The reflective N logo pops against the denim background, while subtle debossed touches on the tongue give it a little extra polish. Inside, you get an insole stamped with “Levi’s for feet” — a small reminder that you’re not just wearing sneakers, you’re wearing a piece of collab history.

Of course, it’s still a 990v3 at heart. That means all-day comfort thanks to New Balance’s ENCAP midsole. If you’ve ever worn a pair of 990s, you know they’re built for serious miles, not just standing around looking pretty (though they do that well too).

On foot, the Levi’s x New Balance 990v3 has that classic “chunky but cool” 990 silhouette, but the denim makes it pop in a way that feels new. It’s versatile enough to wear with jeans, cargos, or shorts, and like good denim, it’ll probably look even better as it ages.

This collab doesn’t reinvent the wheel — it just takes two things people love and puts them together in a way that works. Simple, effective, and damn good-looking.

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JFG x New Balance 610 “Lil’ Deserts”

Dave Hooper — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 01:12:00 +0000

The JFG x New Balance 610 “Lil’ Deserts” is one of those collabs that makes you look twice — and then a third time when you realise just how many hidden details are baked into the design. On the surface, it’s a rugged trail-inspired silhouette. But underneath? It’s a story about identity, camouflage, and the bits of ourselves we don’t always show.

Joe Freshgoods (JFG) has a knack for turning sneakers into little pieces of art, and this one is no exception. The theme here revolves around camouflage — not just as a pattern, but as a concept. In hip hop, in fashion, in life, camo has always been about both hiding and standing out. JFG flips that into a custom camo print mesh underlay, tucked beneath embroidered suede overlays that shift depending on how you look at them. It’s layered, it’s playful, and it’s personal.

The colourway, nicknamed “Lil’ Deserts,” plays with sandy tones and earthy textures, which gives the 610 a streetwear-meets-trail vibe. It feels like a sneaker equally at home on a dusty back road or styled up with a fit for the city.

Performance-wise, you’ve got all the hallmarks of the 610: an EVA midsole that keeps it light underfoot and a durable rubber outsole that grips no matter where you wear them. Comfort isn’t sacrificed for style here — they’re surprisingly wearable for a shoe that looks this complex.

What really stands out is the subtle branding. You’ll find a JFG-branded insert and little touches that only true fans will spot. It’s that attention to detail that makes this collab more than just another logo slapped on a New Balance.

For me, the “Lil’ Deserts” are a reminder that the best sneakers don’t just look good — they tell stories. And JFG has told one here that’s all about what’s hidden beneath the surface.

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New Balance 2002R Light Cream Purple

Dave Hooper — Tue, 06 Sep 2022 02:25:00 +0000

The New Balance 2002R has quickly become one of those silhouettes that bridges the gap between performance running and lifestyle wear. Originally launched in 2010 and then remastered for its 10th anniversary, the 2002R has gone from overlooked performance runner to one of the most versatile sneakers in the NB lineup.

This Light Cream Purple colorway is a perfect example of why the shoe has gained so much love. The creamy mesh base sets the stage, pairing beautifully with premium navy suede overlays that give it structure and depth. The muted tones make it super wearable, while the pops of purple around the midsole and the iconic N logo add just enough personality to keep things interesting.

On foot, the 2002R absolutely shines. New Balance didn’t just re-release the silhouette — they upgraded it. The midsole features ABZORB cushioning for comfort and N-ergy shock absorption in the heel for impact protection. It’s that blend of retro runner aesthetics with modern comfort that makes the 2002R one of the best everyday sneakers in rotation right now.

The Light Cream Purple colorway in particular feels premium. The mix of materials — suede, mesh, and a sturdy rubber outsole — gives it that classic New Balance craftsmanship, while the neutral palette makes it easy to wear with just about anything. Jeans, cargos, even shorts — they all work.

Released on September 7, 2022 at $140, this pair didn’t grab the same hype as some of the Protection Pack drops, but that’s part of the appeal. It’s low-key, it’s stylish, and it’s built to last. If you’re after a clean everyday sneaker with NB’s signature quality and comfort, the 2002R Light Cream Purple deserves a spot in your rotation.

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