Some collaborations are merely about logos; others redefine the landscape of design. The upcoming Stone Island x New Balance 998 belongs to the latter category-a convergence of two worlds where pioneering textile innovation meets the legacy of performance footwear. This isn’t just a sneaker; it’s an artifact of technical mastery, a testament to the restless pursuit of innovation that both brands embody.
A Tale of Two Innovators
Stone Island and New Balance operate in different arenas, but their philosophies align in an obsessive attention to detail. New Balance, renowned for its dedication to craftsmanship and performance, first introduced the 998 in 1993, an era-defining moment that marked the debut of ABZORB cushioning-a revolutionary shock absorption system that set a new standard in running footwear. Meanwhile, Stone Island, the Italian powerhouse of material experimentation, has been pushing the boundaries of garment technology since its inception. Their contribution to this collaboration? A material that bridges the past and future: Raso Gommato.
The Fabric That Changed the Game
Raso Gommato is not just fabric-it’s a manifesto of innovation. Originally developed by Stone Island founder Massimo Osti, this material fuses military-grade cotton with a polyurethane coating, offering unparalleled wind resistance and structural integrity.
It first appeared in the brand’s Spring/Summer 1984 collection, a pivotal moment that cemented Stone Island’s reputation as the alchemy lab of fashion.
Over the decades, the fabric has evolved, integrating new dyeing techniques and laminations, much like how a master watchmaker refines the gears of a timepiece.
In this first-ever Made in USA New Balance x Stone Island sneaker, Raso Gommato manifests as a polyurethane-coated cotton canvas on the upper, creating a visual and textural contrast reminiscent of weathered industrial surfaces-a nod to Stone Island’s fascination with utilitarian aesthetics.
The Shoe: A Fusion of Legacy and Experimentation
The New Balance 998 is the perfect canvas for this experiment. A shoe originally built for performance runners, it has, over the years, transformed into an icon of street culture-worn by tastemakers who appreciate its blend of retro styling and technological prowess. This edition sees the silhouette reimagined with a deep mauve colorway, a subdued yet sophisticated hue that aligns seamlessly with Stone Island’s palette for Spring/Summer 2025.
Every detail of this shoe speaks to its heritage:
ABZORB midsole cushioning ensures a ride as smooth as its original performance-driven intent.
Nubuck overlays add depth and durability, elevating the tactile experience.
The final touch-a black and silver Stone Island badge on the tongue-echoes the brand’s tradition of limited-edition, research-driven creations, much like its coveted Shadow Project series.
A Limited Opportunity for Collectors and Enthusiasts
Much like a military prototype or a limited-run concept car, access to this drop is highly controlled. Stone Island has structured the release as an exclusive event:
Only My Stone Island account holders can register for access.
One pair per order, one order per user-ensuring that the sneaker reaches genuine enthusiasts rather than resellers.
Release date: March 27, 2025, with highly limited quantities available.
This isn’t just another sneaker launch-it’s a manifesto of experimentation and refinement, a glimpse into what happens when two titans of material and motion join forces. For those lucky enough to secure a pair, it’s not just footwear-it’s a collector’s piece, a study in the fusion of tradition and radical innovation.
As the worlds of sportswear and technical fashion continue to blur, the Stone Island x New Balance 998 stands as a symbol of the future, proving that true innovation lies in the details, the materials, and the unwavering dedication to progress.
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Words by AW.
Photo courtesy of Stone Island.