Stone Island and New Balance are reintroducing the 991v2 Ghost MADE in UK, a reinterpretation of the original 991 that helped shape contemporary sneaker culture. Drawing from Stone Island’s Ghost garments, which emphasise a camouflage-inspired design, this collaboration maintains the minimalist aesthetic with tonal colorways in green, beige, and black.
The sneaker’s upper is crafted from smooth nubuck leather, while details like the “N” logo, embroidered “NB” lettering, and the Stone Island Compass logo—featured on the nylon tongue and the translucent sole—are tone-on-tone to keep the sleek, understated look.
New Balance and Stone Island’s collaboration, which first began in 2021, continues to reflect the blend of UK street style and high fashion. These brands have long been iconic within UK subculture, from daily commutes to clubs and stadiums.
This drop will be available in Japan starting September 18, and globally, including on Stone Island’s updated website and at select stores, on September 26.
Stone Island, founded in 1982 by Italian designer Massimo Osti, has always been synonymous with innovation, particularly in textile technology and functional, military-inspired designs. Known for its premium outerwear, the brand has gained a cult following within European streetwear and football subcultures. The iconic Compass logo, a symbol of quality and technical apparel, is a cornerstone of Stone Island’s identity.
New Balance, on the other hand, has a rich history that dates back to 1906, originally starting as a manufacturer of arch supports before evolving into a global leader in performance footwear. Known for their commitment to quality and comfort, New Balance has developed a strong reputation for their “MADE in UK” line, produced in their Flimby factory. This collection emphasizes premium materials and craftsmanship, aligning perfectly with Stone Island’s dedication to high-quality apparel.
The partnership between these two brands began in 2021, and their collaborations have focused on merging cutting-edge design with performance-driven technology. The New Balance 991, originally launched in 2001, has been the centerpiece of this partnership. This silhouette, part of New Balance’s celebrated 99X series, laid the groundwork for modern trainer design. Stone Island’s reinterpretations of this model have infused it with their signature style, resulting in a highly sought-after line of sneakers.
Since their partnership began, Stone Island and New Balance have released a few highly anticipated collaborations. The first came in 2021, featuring a two-tone olive and black version of the 991v2. This drop was met with enthusiasm from sneaker enthusiasts and fashion followers alike, as it combined the technical expertise of New Balance with Stone Island’s distinct design philosophy.
The upcoming 991v2 Ghost MADE in UK release marks their second major collaboration. This iteration features three tonal colorways—green, beige, and black—each inspired by Stone Island’s “Ghost” collection. The Ghost line is known for its minimalist, monochromatic approach, rooted in the concept of camouflage, which aligns perfectly with the clean and sleek design of the new 991v2.
The sneakers themselves are crafted from premium materials, including smooth nubuck leather, mesh, and durable nylon. The tone-on-tone branding, including the “N” logo and the Stone Island Compass patch, maintains a subtle, minimal aesthetic. The shoes also feature a full-length FuelCell midsole equipped with Abzorb pods, enhancing comfort and support for everyday wear.
Stone Island and New Balance’s collaborations have resonated strongly within the realms of streetwear and sneaker culture. Both brands have been pivotal in defining UK subculture, influencing trends in fashion, music, and sports. New Balance, particularly with its “MADE in UK” collection, has long been favored by UK-based style enthusiasts, while Stone Island’s iconic outerwear has become a symbol of status and innovation in European streetwear.
The new 991v2 Ghost collection will be available first in Japan on September 18, with a wider release on September 26 through Stone Island’s revamped website and select stockists. This collaboration, like their previous releases, is expected to be in high demand, appealing to both sneakerheads and fashion-conscious consumers who appreciate the union of performance and style.
With this launch, Stone Island and New Balance continue to cement their collaborative legacy, blending technical expertise, premium materials, and a shared appreciation for design. Each release builds on the growing anticipation for what these two powerhouses will create next, making their partnership one to watch in the world of contemporary fashion and footwear.
