New Balance Lend a Classic Colourway to the 1700

New Balance Japan are often given carte blanche access to the full range of models and archival colourways from the NB vault, but it’s not something the team seem to take for granted. They're not afraid to pull out lesser-known designs and add a familiar palette just to satisfy a small niche. Exhibit A: this upcoming pair of 1700s, which has been remade in the blue-grey OG colourway made famous by the 1300.

Unlike recent 1700 releases (which also have been Japanese exclusives) that were manufactured in Asia, this edition originates from NB’s original home and is made in USA. This was the case when the 1700 first released in 1999, bringing with it a slew of flagship running technology as the company entered the 21st century. Over 20 years on, ABZORB, ENCAP and C-CAP cushioning systems came as standard, while the premium suede and mesh NB is renowned for with their USA models also returns. This time around, the 1300’s signature ‘JP’ colourway is reprised for its contemporary, with an almost direction translation of grey and blue-grey panels across the upper.

Orders for the New Balance 1700 will be available to Japanese residents on October 15. Raffle entries are also currently open at Extra Butter for a Stateside drop on the same date.