New Balance 850: Where Style Meets Skate Performance
Intro
In the world of skateboarding, where style meets performance, the New Balance 850 has carved a distinctive niche. This shoe isn’t just about looking good; it's designed with the intricacies of skateboarding in mind. As skaters, both casual and seasoned, step into the realm of tricks and flips, the footwear they choose plays a pivotal role in their experience. In this exploration, we’ll dig deep into the New Balance 850’s design philosophy, performance features, and the cultural resonance it holds in the skateboarding community.
Let’s embark on a journey that examines not only the aesthetics of these shoes but also their engineering marvel. From the materials used to the feel of the ride, each element contributes to how well a skater performs on their board. With skateboarding continuously evolving, understanding the blend of functionality and style offered by the New Balance 850 helps to reflect the brand’s commitment to quality.
Skateboarding Techniques
Skateboarding involves a medley of skills and techniques that vary among different levels of expertise. As we dive into this section, we’ll discuss essential tricks that form the foundation for beginners, as well as advanced maneuvers that display the prowess of experienced skaters.
Essential Tricks for Beginners
Starting out in skateboarding can be daunting, but mastering a few basic tricks can significantly enhance confidence and skill. Here are some foundational moves:
- Ollie: The cornerstone of most tricks, the ollie allows skaters to elevate their board off the ground, paving the way for more complex maneuvers.
- Pop Shuvit: This trick involves spinning the board 180 degrees while keeping the skater in place, a solid introduction to board rotation.
- Kickflip: With a flick of the foot, the board flips while in the air, introducing new possibilities for creativity and style.
These tricks not only build essential skills but also establish a solid foundation for the more intricate aspects of skateboarding.
Advanced Maneuvers for Experienced Skaters
Once a skater is comfortable with the basics, they often seek to expand their repertoire with more advanced tricks. These include:
- Heelflip: Similar to the kickflip, but using the heel to initiate the flip, adding flair and complexity.
- Frontside 180: This involves a 180-degree turn in the air while performing an ollie, showcasing both control and style.
- Grinds and Slides: Utilizing the edges of the skateboard to slide along rails or curbs, these tricks signify a higher level of technical ability.
By mastering these skills, skaters can truly express themselves on their boards, pushing the boundaries of what can be done.
Gear and Equipment Reviews
Skateboarding isn’t just about techniques; having the right gear significantly influences performance. High-quality skateboards and protective gear play a critical role in ensuring safety and enhancing the skating experience.
Top Skateboards for Every Skill Level
Here’s a look at some reputable skateboards suited to various skill levels:
- Element Skateboards: Known for their durability and style, ideal for both beginners and experienced skaters alike.
- Santa Cruz Skateboards: Offers a variety of designs and high-quality materials, providing great options for enthusiasts.
- Baker Skateboards: Popular among experienced skaters for their robust construction and unique graphics.
Protective Gear: Importance and Recommendations
Skateboarding is exhilarating but can also be risky. Wearing protective gear is essential for safety. Recommended items include:
- Helmets: A must-have for safeguarding against head injuries.
- Knee pads: Protect the knees during falls, reducing the chance of serious injury.
- Wrist guards: Help prevent common injuries associated with falling.
Skateboarding demands not only skill but also an awareness of safety. Proper gear ensures that skaters can focus on perfecting their techniques and enjoying the sport without undue worry.
"Style and function don’t always sit comfortably together, but the New Balance 850 proves that they can coexist beautifully."
Through these insights into techniques and essential gear, it becomes clear that a thoughtful approach to both skill development and equipment selection is crucial. The New Balance 850 exemplifies this balance by providing skaters the foundation they need to elevate their performance while remaining true to their unique styles.
Prologue to the New Balance
The New Balance 850 represents a significant chapter in the evolution of skateboarding footwear. Its arrival is a response not only to the functional demands of skaters but also to the aesthetic sensibilities that drive the culture. The design embodies a fusion of style and durability, making it essential in understanding the current landscape of skate culture and the apparel associated with it.
Skateboarding, often seen as an expression of identity, has always intertwined with fashion. The New Balance 850 manages to capture this ethos while promising performance. The shoe isn’t just another player in a crowded market; it is a testament to how brands can innovate while respecting the concerns and trends of the community they serve. \nThere are numerous elements worth considering when diving into the details of the 850. This model reflects New Balance’s understanding of skateboarding, illustrating how it caters to both amateur and pros, ensuring they have the footwear to excel in their craft.
Historical Context of New Balance in Skateboarding
New Balance's history in skateboarding goes back several decades. Initially renowned for their running shoes, the brand made gradual inroads into the skate scene, capitalizing on the demands for comfortable, resilient footwear. The 850 is a culmination of years of understanding the needs of skaters. This line has bold ties to an era that saw evolution in skateboarding styles and performance standards. In the 1990s, the market was saturated with brands offering skater-centric shoes, but New Balance's entry was relatively subdued, using that time to study its competitors.
Over time, New Balance began making waves, connecting with skateboarders and observing how they interacted with their shoes. The dedication to quality craftsmanship became a hallmark, ensuring that each new model—particularly the 850—integrates feedback from the skating community. This historical commitment builds a connection that resonates deeply with skaters, setting a strong foundation for the current generation.
Current Trends in Skateboarding Footwear
Today, skateboarding footwear has transformed into a dynamic blend of high technology and creative expression. With the New Balance 850, the focus on performance features is evident. Modern skate shoes often showcase innovations such as enhanced cushioning, eco-friendly materials, and breathability to cater to the demanding needs of riders. These features not only enhance ride quality but also respond to aesthetics—think vibrant color palettes and bold designs that pop on the skatepark.
Trends also reflect a broader move towards inclusivity within the skate community. Brands, including New Balance, are recognizing the importance of diversity in skater representation, designing shoes that appeal to a wide audience while maintaining functionality. This means different sizes, styles, and colors are being developed considering skater’s tastes and needs.
In balance, while performance remains a priority, there's no denying that style matters. Skaters often wear their shoes off the board, meaning brands must hit that sweet spot between aesthetic appeal and functional excellence. The New Balance 850 thrives in this climate, representing a powerful example of how skateboarding footwear continues to evolve.
Design Elements of the New Balance
The New Balance 850 isn't just another shoe; it's a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful design that goes into skateboarding footwear. Each element of the 850 is tailored to enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. For skateboarders, the balance between style and performance is crucial. So, it’s essential to explore how these elements seamlessly integrate to create a shoe that supports the lifestyle of both casual skaters and pro athletes alike.
Materials and Build Quality
When it comes to materials, the New Balance 850 employs a diverse blend that maximizes durability and comfort. Various synthetic materials are used alongside traditional textiles, creating a network of support while minimizing weight.
The reinforced toe cap is a standout feature, designed to withstand wear and tear from constant board impacts. This durability plays a critical role for skaters who put their shoes through the wringer day in and day out. The midsole also incorporates innovative cushioning technology, allowing for the necessary shock absorption during tricks and jumps. A stiff yet flexible outsole completes the design, offering the grip needed for safe landings without sacrificing mobility.
Color Palettes and Aesthetics
Aesthetics in skateboarding footwear speak volumes about personal expression, and the New Balance 850 surely doesn’t shy away from this fact. Available in a variety of color palettes, the shoes cater to individual styles without compromising their core functionality.
From bold, eye-catching hues to more subdued shades, each model finds a way to speak to its wearer. Many of these color options combine thematic elements from urban culture and art, resonating with skaters who appreciate a unique look. The branding on the shoe is also thoughtfully placed; it’s not overwhelming but still noticeable enough to convey the identity of New Balance. This attention to style doesn’t go unnoticed in the skate community, where aesthetic choices often reflect a skater’s personality and influence choices on the deck.
Unique Features Distinguishing the
What sets the New Balance 850 apart from its competitors are its unique features, designed specifically for the skater in mind. One of the key attributes is the ankle collar support that provides additional stabilization during hard maneuvers. This design helps in reducing the risk of injuries, an important consideration in a sport where every trick requires considerable physical prowess.
The shoe also utilizes a multi-directional grip pattern on the outsole, which helps maintain traction no matter the surface. This aspect can make all the difference when executing complex tricks or simply maintaining balance. Additionally, the inclusion of breathable mesh panels has allowed the shoe to remain comfortable during long sessions, preventing overheating and discomfort. The New Balance 850's combination of these features illustrates a deep understanding of the specific needs of skaters, making it poised to stand the test of time in both performance and style.
"The design of a skate shoe can greatly affect not just performance but also the culture surrounding it; it's about identity as much as it is about function."
In summary, the design elements of the New Balance 850 encapsulate a thoughtful approach to skate footwear. By focusing on high-quality materials, vibrant aesthetics, and essential features tailored to the demands of skateboarding, it has carved out a unique space in the competitive landscape of skate shoes. As we move deeper into performance characteristics, it's crucial to remember that all design elements ultimately support the same goal - enhancing the skating experience.
Performance Characteristics
When it comes to skateboarding footwear, performance characteristics can either make or break the ride. Factors such as cushioning, traction, durability, and comfort play pivotal roles in how a skater interacts with their board. With the New Balance 850, the design team clearly focused on providing a well-rounded shoe that caters to the demands of both casual enthusiasts and seasoned pros. Understanding these characteristics helps buyers to make educated decisions and ensures that they get the most out of their investment.
Cushioning and Support Systems
Cushioning is not just about comfort; it also impacts overall performance. The New Balance 850 integrates an advanced cushioning technology, likely derived from their running shoe expertise, to deliver exceptional shock absorption. This is crucial for skaters who spend hours practicing tricks or riding hard on uneven surfaces. The shoes feature a padded collar and tongue which enhance support around the ankle and instep, preventing fatigue during long skating sessions. When a skater feels supported, they tend to perform better.
- Benefits of Effective Cushioning Include:
- Increased shock absorption
- Reduced pressure on the foot
- Enhanced stability during tricks
Take, for instance, a skater trying to land a nollie flip. Without proper support and cushioning, the impact can jar the feet. However, the New Balance 850 alleviates some of that stress, allowing for a smoother landing and improved confidence.
Traction and Durability of the Outsole
A skate shoe's outsole can be likened to the tires of a car. If they're not gripping the surface properly, performance suffers. The New Balance 850 is crafted with a rubber outsole designed specifically for maximum traction and durability. The intricate tread pattern ensures skaters remain glued to their board, even during complex maneuvers. This design consideration is essential for skaters who frequently skate in various environments, from smooth skateparks to rough, diverse street spots.
- Key Aspects of the Outsole:
- Enhanced grip on different surfaces
- Long-lasting material that withstands wear
- Strategic flex zones that adapt to foot movements
With these features, the New Balance 850 offers the confidence to attempt daring tricks without the nagging worry of slipping off the board.
Breathability and Comfort for Long Sessions
Skating isn't just about tricks; it's also about endurance. As any seasoned skater would tell you, foot health is paramount. The New Balance 850 prioritizes breathability through its mesh upper and perforations strategically placed for airflow. This means that even during the hottest summer sessions, skaters can keep their feet cool and dry. Moreover, when feet breathe well, it minimizes blisters and other discomforts that can sidetrack a skater.
- Considerations for Extended Comfort:
- Breathable mesh materials
- Moisture-wicking linings
- Lightweight construction for less fatigue
Being comfortable on your feet for hours can alter the skater's experience drastically. Skaters focus more on riding rather than worrying about sore or sweaty feet.
In summary, strong performance characteristics—such as effective cushioning, impressive traction, and enhanced breathability—make the New Balance 850 a formidable contender in the skateboarding footwear market.
The New Balance and Skate Culture
The relationship between the New Balance 850 and skate culture is as intricate as the tricks skaters execute on their boards. Footwear is not merely a protective covering; it's an extension of identity, an expression of style, and a tool for performance. The New Balance 850 stands at the crossroads of aesthetics and functionality, appealing to both the casual skater looking to make a statement and the professional seeking optimum performance.
Influence on Skateboarding Styles
Skateboarding has evolved significantly over the decades, morphing from a niche sport to a powerful cultural phenomenon. Shoes have a pivotal role in shaping skater styles, and the New Balance 850 is no exception. With its retro aesthetic blended with modern design insights, it resonates with the nostalgia of classic skate shoes while also catering to current trends.
The subtle designs and eye-catching colorways available create a versatile canvas for skaters. From sleek blacks to vibrant hues, riders can express their personal styles, making these shoes a common sight in skateparks and urban spots alike. The shoes' sleek silhouette aligns well with the rising trend of minimalism in fashion, allowing skaters to merge performance gear with everyday wear.
Collaborations and Limited Editions
Part of what makes the New Balance 850 stand out are the collaborations and limited editions that breathe fresh air into its offerings. The brand has partnered with various artists, designers, and skate influencers to launch exclusive models that not only reflect skate culture but also push the boundaries of design. These collaborations often sell out quickly, creating a sense of urgency and desirability among enthusiasts.
For instance, a release that fuses graffiti art with performance-based design elements has captured the attention of both collectors and active skaters. Limited runs mean exclusivity, and for the skater or sneakerhead, wearing a pair of these special editions becomes a badge of honor, often leading to deeper community engagement and discussion.
Iconic Skateboarders Associated with the Brand
New Balance has established itself as a formidable player in the skateboarding arena, leveraging its partnerships with notable skateboarders to boost its reputation. Names like Tom Knox and Ishod Wair have donned the New Balance 850, influencing others within the scene. Their choice of footwear is not merely about function; it's about their connection to the brand and what they stand for.
When a well-respected skater is seen performing tricks in New Balance 850s, it sends ripples through the community. Fans and aspiring skaters take note, and suddenly, those shoes become a part of skate lore. This association is crucial, as it bridges the gap between premium skate performance and cultural influence.
"The impact of an athlete on a brand cannot be understated. When top-tier skaters embrace New Balance, it generates a cascading effect in the skating community, making the brand relatable and aspirational at the same time."
For further exploration on skate culture and the evolution of footwear, visit Wikipedia on Skateboarding. To see discussions among the skateboarding community, check Reddit's Skateboarding subreddit.
Market Position of New Balance
The market position of the New Balance 850 reveals much about its role in the skateboarding footwear segment. Understanding this position not only sheds light on the shoe's value but also paints a broader picture of where New Balance stands in a competitive industry. With skateboarding's rapid evolution, brands need to adapt quickly to maintain relevancy. The New Balance 850 is marketed not just as a functional skate shoe but as a statement of style and culture. Here, we will delve into its pricing strategy and the value proposition it offers to consumers, followed by a glance at how it stacks up against competitors.
Pricing Strategy and Value Proposition
The pricing of the New Balance 850 is crafted with careful consideration of its target demographic. Generally priced higher than some other mainstream skate shoes, it places itself in the premium category—a strategic move by the brand that signifies quality over quantity. This approach reinforces New Balance's commitment to utilizing top-notch materials and advanced technologies in their footwear.
A few factors contribute to the value proposition:
- Quality Materials: The New Balance 850 employs high-grade textiles and rubber. This enhances durability during demanding skate sessions.
- Performance Features: Benefits such as superior cushioning and support systems are designed to meet the specific needs of skateboarders.
- Cultural Relevance: As skateboarding continues to be influenced by fashion trends and lifestyle choices, the New Balance 850 capitalizes on its stylish appeal, appealing to both skaters and non-skaters alike.
Consumers often see the price as justifiable when they weigh these benefits against the rate of wear in cheaper alternatives.
Comparison with Competitors
The landscape of skate shoes is crowded with various brands vying for attention. When compared to notable competitors such as Nike SB and Adidas Skateboarding, the New Balance 850 shows distinct advantages that contribute to its market position.
Strengths of the New Balance 850:
- Innovative Design: Offers aesthetics that blend seamlessly with streetwear, making them versatile for casual wear and skating.
- Comfort Over Long Sessions: Users often highlight the comfort during extended periods, a feature that is paramount for professionals.
- Support from the Skate Community: There's a growing trend among skateboarders favoring New Balance. The brand's focus on quality resonates with a culture that values craftsmanship.
However, it also faces challenges:
- Brand Recognition: While New Balance has a solid foothold, it lacks the same street cred as Nike SB, which often dominates conversations.
- Limited Collaborations: Compared to competitors that frequently roll out popular collaborations, New Balance's limited editions can sometimes seem sparse.
In summary, while the New Balance 850 may not always lead in brand visibility like some of its rivals, its combination of quality, comfort, and cultural significance establishes a solid market position. As the brand continues to navigate and evolve in the skateboarding footwear market, its commitment to both performance and aesthetics will likely play a crucial role in maintaining its appeal and relevance.
"The New Balance 850 fuses the worlds of function and fashion, capturing both the athlete's wisdom and the urban aesthetic."
For those interested in a deeper dive into market dynamics, further insights can be found at reliable platforms like Wikipedia and discussions on Reddit.
Ultimately, understanding the market position of the New Balance 850 provides not just an overview of its current state but a window into the intricate blend of skate culture and commercial strategy that defines the footwear industry.
Consumer Feedback and Community Reception
Understanding consumer feedback and community reception is key to any product’s success, particularly in the skateboarding realm where the stakes can be high. In this arena, skaters are not just looking for performance; they seek a blend of style, comfort, and cultural relevance. The New Balance 850 has sparked a fair bit of conversation among skaters and enthusiasts, and these discussions paint a vivid picture of how the model is being received.
Reviews from Skaters
When it comes to footwear, there's no better critic than the skaters who use them daily. In various online platforms, you can find numerous reviews highlighting both praise and criticism. Skaters appreciate the cushioning and support that the New Balance 850 provides, especially during long skate sessions. One particularly noted review states,
"The 850 feels like I'm walking on clouds; my feet don't ache after a session anymore!"
This points to the importance of comfort, a critical factor in skate footwear.
Additionally, durability always creeps into the conversation. Many skaters feel that the outsole withstands the usual wear and tear, making it a reliable option for both street and park skating. However, some reviews mention that the aesthetics may be a bit polarizing, with opinions divided on its sleek look versus more traditional skate styles. Ultimately, these reviews contribute to a broader narrative about what skaters value in their print and feel validated in their choices.
Online Discussions and Forums
The skateboarding community is a vibrant tapestry, woven together by various online discussions and forums. Websites like Reddit and dedicated skateboarding forums are buzzing with threads that dissect every aspect of the New Balance 850. For instance, on a subreddit dedicated to skateboarding, users frequently share their experiences, some even posting multiple photos to showcase how the shoes hold up against not just skateboarding tricks, but day-to-day wear.
- Common discussion points include:
- The break-in period of the shoes and tips for easing this process
- Comparisons with other models like the Nike SB or Adidas' skate lines
- Suggestions on styles and colorways that resonate with different subcultures within skating
Conversations extend beyond performance; personal stories often enter the fray. Some users express how wearing the New Balance 850 has impacted their identity within the skating community, signaling that these shoes are more than just a piece of equipment. They become symbols of personal style and social belonging.
The Future of the New Balance
The New Balance 850 is more than just a product; it represents a stride into an exciting horizon for skate footwear. As skateboarding continues to evolve, the demands placed on shoes are shifting. Factors like the need for enhanced performance, sustainability, and personalization are becoming more pertinent. This section addresses how the New Balance 850 can navigate these waters, ensuring its relevance for both current and future skaters. With a keen eye on innovation and the adaptation to rider needs, the future looks promising for this model.
Potential Innovations in Future Releases
Innovation in skateboarding footwear requires an understanding of both technology and community feedback. The New Balance team has already set a high bar with the 850, but future releases can push these boundaries even further. Consider some potential innovations:
- Smart Materials: Imagine a shoe that adapts to the skater's movement. Materials that change their characteristics based on heat or moisture could enhance support or comfort.
- Integrated Technology: Features such as Bluetooth-enabled sensors could provide skaters with feedback on their performance, such as balance metrics or landing impact data.
- Sustainable Production: As environmental awareness grows, integrating recycled and eco-friendly materials could resonate well with consumers. This not only appeals to the ethically-minded but also aligns with industry trends.
All these innovations hinge on collaboration with the skate community. Incorporating feedback from professional and amateur skaters ensures that any new features will genuinely enhance performance and comfort.
Expanding the Lineup: More Features to Anticipate
When it comes to expanding the New Balance 850 lineup, there’s a wealth of possibilities. The skateboarding community needs diverse options to suit different styles, preferences, and environments. Here are a few features that might be anticipated in upcoming models:
- Customizable Fit: With advancements in design technology, offering a shoe that adjusts to various foot shapes could be a game-changer.
- Extra Grip Options: Different surfaces require different grip levels. Having a choice of rubber compounds or tread patterns can significantly affect performance on varying terrains.
- Fashion Collaborations: Partnering with streetwear brands or artists could not only reinvigorate the shoe's aesthetic appeal but also deepen its cultural connection within the skateboard community.
"Innovation in skateboarding footwear isn’t just about performance; it’s about culture, identity, and connection with the skater's journey."
The direction New Balance takes with the 850 largely relies on embracing input from the skater community, plus staying in tune with emerging trends. This blend of technical advancement and cultural awareness might just cement the New Balance 850 as a staple in every skateboarder's collection.
End: Assessing the New Balance 's Legacy
As we tie up this exploration into the New Balance 850, it's clear that this skateboarding shoe does more than just fit well. Its design and functionality coalesce to create a unique offering that many skaters appreciate. This section aims to underscore the significance of the 850's characteristics, revealing layer by layer why it has become a staple in both streets and skate parks.
Summary of Key Features
The New Balance 850 encapsulates numerous features that contribute to its standing in the footwear market:
- Responsive Cushioning: Equipped with advanced cushioning systems, it provides the right balance of support and flexibility, helping skaters perform at their best.
- Durable Outsole: Designed with a focus on durability, the outsole endures the wear and tear associated with skateboarding, ensuring longevity.
- Stylish Aesthetics: With a keen eye for contemporary trends, the 850 showcases color palettes that resonate with today’s skaters, blending style with utility.
- Unique Support Structures: Innovative builds cater to all skateboarders, offering support where it's needed most while allowing for freedom of movement.
These components collectively form the backbone of the New Balance 850, making it not just another option in the crowded footwear market.
Final Thoughts on its Impact in Skateboarding
The New Balance 850 has positioned itself as a noteworthy contender in the world of skateboarding footwear. Its symbiotic relationship with skateboard culture has allowed it to ride the waves of change and adapt to new styles and preferences. The response from the skating community speaks volumes; the blend of old-school charm and contemporary design appeals both to the veterans in the game and the newcomers on the scene.
In the grand narrative of skateboarding, the New Balance 850 represents a shift toward inclusivity, with quality at its core. This shoe, like the skateboarders who wear it, pushes boundaries. As brands increasingly recognize the importance of catering to the functional and aesthetic desires of skaters, the legacy of the 850 will likely reverberate for years to come.
"The New Balance 850 is not just a shoe, but a bridge connecting enthusiasts of various backgrounds and skateboarding philosophies."
Its impact is multifaceted, weaving together history, culture, performance, and style. It's evident that the New Balance 850 has elevated expectations in skateboarding shoes, making its analysis both relevant and necessary for anyone involved in the sport.
