Heading back to class or to the office with the perfect sneaker for the season? Meet the New Balance 471, a newly arrived pair that deftly translates the spirit of 1970s running into our everyday lives with elegance. Designed for every moment of the day—from the office to relaxed strolls—it embodies the essence of understated chic and modern practicality.
A design rooted in history, reinvented for today
For a long time, New Balance distinguished itself with its classic running silhouettes, often revisited. With the 471, the brand offers a true new model inspired by its seventies heritage, but without trying to reproduce an icon already known. The objective was clear: a cleaner profile, a more contemporary approach, while maintaining a strong link to that iconic era for the brand. The lead designer, Joe Walsh, dug into the archives, hunted for signature details – breathable mesh, textured suede overlays, leather finishes – and translated them into a current aesthetic. The result? A shoe that looks calm on the surface, yet is rich in character. Its exposed foam tongue, the “fang” motif at the toe, and its angular EVA sole respect vintage codes while injecting subtle modernity.
A model that traverses the seasons
The 471 is more than a retro nod: it’s a sneaker designed for today’s life. Its discreet look makes it incredibly adaptable — with jeans, a sleek blazer, or even a light skirt — while maintaining effortless elegance. It was worn live by ambassador Cameron Brink, during the NBA Paris Games, proof of its ease between sportswear style and busy city life.
More than just a fashion accessory, it captures the mood of the moment: discreet enough not to overwhelm the scene and refined enough to earn a place as the season’s “it sneaker.” It embodies a form of accessible cool-luxury, where material quality and design finesse coexist with versatile comfort, ready for days packed with activity.
