H Y P E B E A’s Blog

Cockroaches are one of the oldest and most highly evolved creatures on our planet and as we all know, they are even able to survive nuclear disasters (much like Arnie). They are also able to constantly adapt themselves to new surroundings… also like Arnie! Lfstl decided to use the ubiquitous dirty bug as inspiration when creating their new New Balance 577 collabo. Chosen by the guys because of its timeless character and sporty lineage, the 577 is an all-time Lfstl favourite, though somewhat hard to procure in Holland.

Inspired by their hometown, the guys produced the 577 ‘cockroach’ as a homage to Rotterdam, a city with many contrasts in architecture, a side-effect of the rebuilding phases the city faced after WWII. The use of materials and colour also reflects the aforementioned contrast, showcasing the strength and energy of the working city. Grey, black and white are regularly used colours in all Rotterdam buildings. Petrol indicates the industry and harbour, but also the river that runs through the city and divides it in two. Purple translates innovation in architecture and Rotterdam’s open-minded character. In choosing the materials, Lfstl reflected their design experience in sneakers and their deep knowledge – gum sole, pigskin suede, black premium croc, white patent and perforated suede… the end result is classy and rather more subtle than such a volatile mix would indicate.

What better way to make this classic NB silhouette more accessible to the windmill city? October 25 release.