The 471 steals a few styling moves from the retro running shoes lapping the competition. (It looks exactly like the type of shoe your old man would’ve worn back in the day, in the best way possible.) The mesh base is overlaid by short-haired suede across the front, back, and lacing system, while an oversized leather ‘N’ logo is stitched across the sidewalls. And, much like its vintage-inspired New Balance siblings—namely, the 327 and 237—the toe box features now-signature “fang”-like detailing, a deep-cut flourish the real heads will appreciate.
To keep the retro vibes going, the EVA foam midsole is cut into a wedge shape, and lined with gum rubber for added old-school charm. It looks like a “classic runner silhouette,” says Vinnie Tao, founder of the UK-based kicks emporium Sneaker Pharm. “It’s very simple and clean. The raised suede panels are an elevated touch, and thanks to its minimal construction, it lends itself well to future repairs, too. I can’t wait to see what other colorways come through.”
The 471 is already being prepped for a big moment. Around this time every year, New Balance releases its annual ‘Grey Days’ collection, a who’s who of future grails cherry-picked by the company itself. 2025’s drop includes heavy-hitters like the viral 1906L loafer, the 9060, the 740— and yes, the 471. And though it’s still relatively fresh on the scene, the model has already secured its first high-profile collaboration: later this year, legendary Japanese designer Junya Watanabe will put his stamp on it. All of which means now would be a good time to snag a pair before the rest of the world beats you to it.
This story originally appeared on British GQ.