Levi’s® × New Balance:
A Nod to Mountain Biking Heritage
DECEMBER 18, 2023 → WORDS ADRIÁN GOMIS EXPÓSITO
In the early 1970s, Marin County, California’s rugged fire protection roads witnessed the birth of a cultural phenomenon - mountain biking. Fueled by the adventurous spirit of young men and women navigating the steep, rocky terrains on their “klunker” paperboy bikes, Levi’s® denim became their chosen uniform for its durability, protection, and timeless style. Fast forward to 2023, Levi’s® and New Balance are rekindling their enduring partnership with a new footwear collaboration inspired by these pioneers.
The latest collection pays homage to the roots of mountain biking and the culture of Marin County. Reviving the iconic New Balance MT580 silhouette initially launched in 1996, the shoe combines the classic chunky design with modern elements, such as a slimmed-down toe and reduced collar height. Constructed with Levi’s® durable fabrics, the MT580 features a RollBar stability post system, providing enhanced support for controlling rear-foot movement. Celebrating the 150th anniversary of Levi’s® 501® jeans, the shoe incorporates the signature Shrink-To-FitTM denim, echoing the traditional aesthetic of the era’s bikes.
Available in two distinct colourways, Grey Blue and Beige Black, each pair comes in special packaging that narrates the story of the birth of mountain biking. The collection is globally accessible through levi.com, the Levi’s® App, select Levi’s® Stores, and newbalance.com, allowing enthusiasts to step into the legacy of mountain biking with a fusion of style, durability, and history.
Levi’s® × New Balance: A Nod to Mountain Biking Heritage
DECEMBER 18, 2023
WORDS ADRIÁN GOMIS EXPÓSITO
In the early 1970s, Marin County, California’s rugged fire protection roads witnessed the birth of a cultural phenomenon - mountain biking. Fueled by the adventurous spirit of young men and women navigating the steep, rocky terrains on their “klunker” paperboy bikes, Levi’s® denim became their chosen uniform for its durability, protection, and timeless style. Fast forward to 2023, Levi’s® and New Balance are rekindling their enduring partnership with a new footwear collaboration inspired by these pioneers.
The latest collection pays homage to the roots of mountain biking and the culture of Marin County. Reviving the iconic New Balance MT580 silhouette initially launched in 1996, the shoe combines the classic chunky design with modern elements, such as a slimmed-down toe and reduced collar height. Constructed with Levi’s® durable fabrics, the MT580 features a RollBar stability post system, providing enhanced support for controlling rear-foot movement. Celebrating the 150th anniversary of Levi’s® 501® jeans, the shoe incorporates the signature Shrink-To-FitTM denim, echoing the traditional aesthetic of the era’s bikes.
Available in two distinct colourways, Grey Blue and Beige Black, each pair comes in special packaging that narrates the story of the birth of mountain biking. The collection is globally accessible through levi.com, the Levi’s® App, select Levi’s® Stores, and newbalance.com, allowing enthusiasts to step into the legacy of mountain biking with a fusion of style, durability, and history.