Longtime collaborators Aimé Leon Dore and New Balance are taking their partnership to the next level with the launch of an all-new, co-designed silhouette—the RC56. Marking their first original sneaker model together, the RC56 blends early 2000s cross-country runner aesthetics with ALD’s signature elevated styling and New Balance’s technical innovation.
Officially dropping on May 23, the RC56 will release in three refined colorways: Neon/Grey, Pristine, and Navy, each priced at $160 USD. Available exclusively through Aimé Leon Dore, a special drawing for the sneakers has already opened and will close at the end of the day on May 21.
Designed from the ground up, the RC56 showcases a breathable upper built from perforated leather, nylon mono mesh, and synthetic overlays, achieving a sleek, layered texture. Underfoot, FuelCell midsole cushioning and a PU foam footbed insert prioritize responsive comfort, bridging performance functionality with luxury detail.
True to form, both brands bring thoughtful co-branding to the model. The Aimé Leon Dore and New Balance logos are subtly featured across the tongue, footbed, heel, and packaging, adding to the collector appeal. The design language speaks to both heritage and modernity—pulling archival athletic inspiration into a contemporary lifestyle context.
As part of its debut campaign, ALD shared behind-the-scenes development insights into the RC56, showcasing the meticulous design process that shaped the model. Teasers from ALD VP of Brand Joe Bavasso have revealed a wider range of unreleased colorways—including bold combinations like navy and yellow, red and silver, and a striking green, yellow, and silver version—all highlighting the model’s versatility and future potential.
Originally teased as a mysterious silhouette earlier this year, the RC56 was long assumed to be a standalone New Balance project. It has now been confirmed as a fully collaborative concept developed in tandem with ALD—cementing the RC56 as a landmark in their already-strong creative relationship, which dates back to 2019.
For those looking to cop, the Aimé Leon Dore x New Balance RC56 will be available in limited quantities through ALD’s official website beginning May 23, with broader availability at select New Balance retailers expected to follow.
Stay tuned for more drops and potential in-line expansions of this new silhouette as Aimé Leon Dore and New Balance continue to push the boundaries of sneaker design.
