As the fashion and footwear industry both continue to push towards more sustainable means, New Balance has released one of its most environmentally responsible models to date: the 327 “Undyed.”
Since making its debut on the Casablanca runway back in January, the New Balance 327 has become one of the footwear and sporting manufacturer’s biggest sellers. This is largely due to the model’s 1970s-inspired aesthetic on top of its penchant for quality materials and its captivating colorways. Staying true to its retro-DNA, the latest 327 is a must-have for those looking to add more sustainable footwear options into their rotation.
As its inherited name suggest, the 327 “Undyed” boasts a top-notch construction and forgoes the traditional colouring process and doesn’t use any artificial dyes or pigments. Instead, the eco-friendly, undyed model is dressed in an impressive, natural-coloured outfit, that not only helps to lower New Balance’s carbon footprint but simultaneously champions sustainability.
The clean silhouette is constructed from a mix-textile upper crafted from a light beige organic cotton canvas and light bluish grey pigskin suede overlays; the latter is spotlighted on the vamp fangs and signature oversized “N” insignia showcased on the lateral walls. Even the sock-liners partake in the brand’s sustainability efforts as it is composed entirely of natural cork rather than traditional fabric.
Down below, the EVA foam cushioning not only provides excellent comfort for the wearer but also complements the shoe’s top-half in a demure white hue. New Balance takes it one step further by removing the tongue tabs in favour of debossed branding.
Final details to help elevate this elegant and ethical 327 “Undyed” arrangement is a semi-translucent, gum light brown Trail 355-inspired outsole made of natural rubber, tone-on-tone organic cotton laces, and “New Balance” branding that is finely debossed onto the heels.
Because of its natural state and use of non-dyed materials or colour augmentations, the sneaker’s manufacturing process helps to considerably save water, energy, and waste that are usually required during the dyeing process. Textile dyeing currently ranks second among the most polluting industries in the world.
Additionally, the sneaker has been given the honour of being the company’s inaugural undyed 327 model. The company plans to release a larger line of conscious products and the latest iteration represents New Balance’s commitment to be more environmentally responsible at all levels of the company.
The 327 “Undyed” is suitable for everyday wear and is a must-have for anyone looking for a retro-runner style in a modern silhouette. The pair retail for $100 USD (approximately $134 CAD) and are now available online and at select New Balance retailers.
All images in this article are courtesy of New Balance.
