New Balance gets deconstructed in a new size? collaboration

size?, New Balance release new sneaker

By Leslie Leon Published March 12, 2025

view of back of sneaker heel — size? / size?

First launched in 2001, New Balance’s ‘Protection Pack’ series has had quite the journey. Created to honor the concept of ‘wear and tear,’ the collection offers a distinct look for the New Balance look. To celebrate the UK-based size?’s 25th anniversary, New Balance is reviving the ‘Protection Pack’ series with a unique collection. Available in three new earthy tones, the new collection is a neutral and versatile option for faithful fans of the brand. Although the pack will be released in parts, fans can already get a first glance at the collection. Despite the edgier exterior, the sneakers stay true to New Balance’s quality and features. An interesting and unique take on the traditional New Balance style, these sneakers are a must-have for any collector.

size? x New Balance 2002R “Protection Pack”

model wearing brown size? new balance sneakers — size? / size?

In honor of the UK retailer’s 25th anniversary, New Balance and size? are reestablishing the ‘Protection Pack’ with plenty of style. Releasing in three new colorways, the partnership between the two brands sees the New Balance 2002R model in a new deconstructed pattern. Featuring distressed suede overlays and mesh base uppers, the sneaker dons an edgier style. A pair of butter yellow laces are included with each colorway to add to the vintage look. Foot support comes in the form of the ABZORB midsole and N-ergy outsole, bringing the silhouette together. The new sneaker will be released in brown, metallic silver, and black colorways for this collection. Although part of the same pack, the brown colorway will release first via size?’s platforms in March.

Leslie is a Los Angeles-based writer and content creator. She is always researching and finding the latest fashion trends…

Fashion & Style

Frederique Constant unveils new Healey limited editions in pale blue

Racing heritage: Frederique constant's healey collaboration shifts to pale blue inspiration

Frederique constant's healey editions

Frederique Constant has extended its partnership with British carmaker Healey, marking two decades of collaboration. This year, two new limited editions have been introduced, departing from the traditional British Racing Green. Instead, they feature pale blue dials inspired by early 1960s Austin-Healey 3000 MKII models. Priced at €1,695 and €3,395, these timepieces continue an unusual collaboration that began in 2004.
At the heart of the partnership is a single historic vehicle: the ex-Works 1953–55 Austin-Healey 100S Special Test Car, registration NOJ393. This car competed in the World Sports Car Championship and was sold unrestored at Bonhams in 2011 for £843,000 ($1,000,000). Since then, it has been restored to its 1955 Le Mans specification.
Unlike typical automotive collaborations that focus on brand logos and color matching, Frederique Constant’s approach is different. The brand aims to capture the essence of this specific car and also supports Healey classic car rallies and community programs. Over 20 years, the partnership has produced many timepieces, most featuring the 100S’s distinctive green livery.
This year’s editions take a new aesthetic direction. The pale blue sunray dials with metallic coloring are inspired by the early 1960s Austin-Healey 3000 MKII, moving away from the traditional green to reflect the broader Austin-Healey palette while maintaining a connection to racing heritage.
The three-handed automatic variant features a curvaceous 36mm polished steel case, incorporating both Frederique Constant and Healey dial elements. Applied hour markers, including an oversized 12, are hand-polished silver with white luminous material. The bright red central seconds hand adds a sporty, dashboard-inspired touch, while the dark blue minute track flange matches the co-signing.
The chronograph edition measures 41mm and has a polished steel case with a two-counter layout. Bright red accents appear on both the central chronograph hand and the 30-minute subdial, which sits opposite the small seconds display. This color coordination visually connects to automotive instrumentation while maintaining horological function.
Both models are paired with blue leather straps and closed case backs engraved with the historic 100S. Each is limited to 1,888 pieces, emphasizing the partnership’s exclusivity while still offering reasonable availability for enthusiasts.
The automatic model costs €1,695, making it an accessible entry point into the collaboration. The chronograph is priced at €3,395, targeting collectors seeking additional complications. These price points are competitive with similar Swiss offerings and provide a sense of automotive provenance.
Frederique Constant has also reintroduced the 40mm 2023 Classics Vintage Rally Healey Automatic, featuring a steel case and British Racing Green dial. This model becomes a core collection piece, losing its limited edition status to broaden accessibility.
This partnership demonstrates how authentic collaborations can move beyond typical co-branding, emphasizing genuine community engagement and respect for automotive heritage. The result is a series of distinctive timepieces that appeal to both watch and car enthusiasts

Fashion & Style

Snow Peak and Merrell release a new sneaker for all outdoor enthusiasts

Snow Peak and Merrell debut new trail running sneaker

overhead shot of Merrell x Snow Peak

On its own, Merrell is responsible for many footwear must-haves for outdoor explorers. In a new partnership with the Japanese-designed Snow Peak brand, the brand is expanding to new levels. Known for their minimalist approach to camping and exploring, Snow Peak has joined this collaboration to create the ultimate sleek sneaker that will rule the trails. The duo has incorporated Gore-Tex technology to upgrade the partnership even more, making it a durable and practical option for your journeys. Taking on one of Merrell’s most recognizable silhouettes, the pair has created a new elevated adventure sneaker far from your typical trail running shoe.

Hit the trails in the new Snow Peak x Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX

Fashion & Style

The latest New Balance 9060 is as colorful as it gets

New Balance announces new colorful sneaker

new balance green suede sneaker

Although it might seem like a collaboration with a particular soft drink, New Balance’s latest 9060 sneaker is an in-house project that exudes color. Similar to the recently announced ‘Cyber Jade,’ the new sneaker from the athletic company is a bold composition of color far from its typical neutrals and monochromatic color palettes. A far cry from last month’s ‘Grey Days,’ the New Balance 9060 has been reworked to incorporate colors and hues that make it feel like a true summer sneaker.

While its official release is still to be announced, this version of the New Balance 9060 is only part of the releases the brand has planned for the model this year. Although this might be the brand’s most colorful version thus far, it doesn’t mean it’s any less of a performance sneaker than its predecessors. A vibrant pop to add to your wardrobe, get ready for one of New Balance’s most statement sneakers of 2025.