New Balance and brand ambassador Jaden Smith have collaborated on the design and development of the new NB for Jaden Smith Vision Racer. The vegan-friendly shoe boasts a unique silhouette and is scheduled to launch globally on Friday, July 24.
The NB for Jaden Smith Vision Racer merges classic New Balance design with Jaden’s unique, fashion-forward aesthetic pushing the boundaries for sustainably-led footwear for the brand. With a suggested retail price of $150, the shoe will be available at newbalance.com and select retail locations.
“Shared values of transforming the status quo; staying true to oneself; giving back to community; and, respecting heritage while co-authoring a distinct future, are the foundation of the relationship between New Balance and Jaden Smith,” says Chris Davis, New Balance Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President of Merchandising.
With Jaden Smith’s convention-defying work in fashion and music, coupled with his dedication to philanthropy and environmental awareness, using a hands-on approach, Smith created footwear that speaks to broader global issues and how they impact his generation.
In addition to being vegan, each element of the Vision Racer incorporates partially recycled materials that include:
- Midsole with EVA Regrind: the midsole includes 5% EVA regrind, alleviating a potential waste stream.
- Partially Recycled Insole: The dual-density insert consists of foam in a heel carrier. The insert foam is made of a combination of 6% castor bean oil, 15% recycled foam, 5% recycled rubber, and 74% virgin PU. The heel carrier is made from 98% post-production leftover foam and rubber.
- Recycled Content Upper Synthetics: Synthetic leather is made from PU layered onto a thin polyester base and is an animal-free alternative to traditional leather. The light polyester base used in the synthetic leather upper pieces is 60% recycled polyester.
- Recycled Polyester: The upper textile and upper lining, tongue textile, small webbings are made of 100% recycled polyester. The extensive tongue webbing is 70% recycled polyester, 30% reflective yarns. Recycled polyester used on the Vision Racer comes from post-consumer plastic rather than oil.
The Vision Racer will launch in a Wavy Baby Blue shade, with additional colors debuting throughout 2020.
