Salehe Bembury just released a new book, I Make Shoes, that delves into his storied career as a footwear designer. The New York–native has designed for the likes of Cole Haan, Yeezy, and New Balance, and the new tome, which is his first book, chronicles his journey from his beginnings to now. From Yeezy 500s to ON9s, Bembury displays his works in a photo-essay that reflects on how his understanding of texture and silhouette has developed over time.
Fans of the designer and avid sneaker collectors quickly identified Easter eggs hidden throughout the book, namely four exclusive New Balance sneakers, with two being New Balance 1000s and the other two New Balance 992s. Each of the kicks show off Salehe’s signature approach to storytelling through color. One of the 1000s shows off the “sibling” scheme with multicolor three-dimensional panels and floral cutouts. Another pairs terracotta suede with blue contrasts. The two previously unannounced 992s are more earthy and muted in tone with one version offering mossy greens and blues and another soft pinks with gradient detailing and sunset-inspired “N” logos.
This is precisely the level of detail that sneakerheads obsess over, with slight variations of hue that balance visual appeal with functionality and street wear. This is also the first time Bembury has gotten to work on the New Balance 992. This follows his “Made in USA” 990v2 which he released back in 2022.
No information has been revealed as to when these New Balances might release, but there’s a good chance that there’s more on the way, as the images tease the arrival of new projects on the horizon. Bembury’s world is always expanding and this new book cements that.
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Photos: Reddit u/Access_Agile
