Prepare to be amazed by the latest fusion of fashion and footwear: the New Balance x COMME des GARÇONS HOMME 1890A, a sneaker-moccasin hybrid that’s as bold as it is baffling. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this a genius blend of styles or a confusing mashup that doesn’t quite land? Let’s dive in.
New Balance has never been one to shy away from pushing boundaries, and their recent designs have proven to be nothing short of divisive. Remember the New Balance 1906L, affectionately (or not) dubbed the ‘snoafer’? It sparked debates across the sneaker community, and while opinions were split, the buzz was undeniable. And this is the part most people miss: New Balance isn’t backing down—they’re doubling down on this polarizing approach with the 1890A, and COMME des GARÇONS is joining the ride.
In the world of sneaker collaborations, COMME des GARÇONS is a heavyweight. Rei Kawakubo’s avant-garde empire is synonymous with innovation, yet when it comes to sneakers, they keep it simple—think classic black and white palettes. True to form, the 1890A collaboration sticks to this minimalist ethos, offering two understated colorways: Black and Wheat. But don’t let the simplicity fool you; the design itself is anything but basic.
The silhouette is a sight to behold. While New Balance’s signature DNA is evident in the sole unit and layered upper, the overall vibe leans heavily into moccasin territory. It’s a shoe that effortlessly straddles the line between formal and casual, offering the versatility of a Clarks Wallabee paired with the sporty edge of the 1906. But here’s the question: What do we even call this? A smoccasin? A moccasneaker? The debate is as open as the design itself.
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Now, let’s spark some discussion: Is this hybrid a step forward in sneaker design, or is it a step too far? Does it successfully merge two worlds, or does it lose its identity in the process? Let us know in the comments—we’re all ears. And while you’re at it, check out our recommendations below for more sneaker inspiration, from Nike’s tech-driven dad shoes to sacai’s formalwear twist with Carhartt. The sneaker game is evolving, and we’re here for every controversial step.
