American sports agent Rich Paul has teamed up with New Balance to launch his own version of the classic 550 sneaker silhouette.
The Rich Paul x New Balance 550 is delivered in a soothing off-white, blue, and black colorway and is composed of perforated leather. While a cream hue forms the base of the model, tasteful blue accents are found on the lateral outsoles, and the "NB" heel logo and hits of black are presented throughout the sneaker.
Although a sneaker collaboration with a sports agent may seem like an unusual choice, Rich Paul has an extensive history with New Balance. Recently, Paul even landed a million-dollar internship for the 2018 No. 13 prospect Darius Bazley with the sportswear brand.
Sports Agent-Designed Sneakers
Rich Paul Reveals His Own Signature New Balance 550
Trend Themes
1. Sports Agent-designed Sneakers - The trend of sports agents collaborating with footwear brands to create sneakers tailored for athletes provides an opportunity for other sports agents to do the same.
2. Luxury Athleisure - The trend of luxury athleisure has disrupted the traditional sports apparel industry, providing an opportunity for companies to create more high-end versions of activewear.
3. Celebrity-designed Footwear - The trend of celebrities collaborating with footwear brands to create their own signature sneakers provides an opportunity for companies to capitalize on the popularity of celebrities to market their products.
Industry Implications
1. Sports Management - The sports management industry can use this trend of sports agent-designed sneakers to create a new revenue stream by collaborating with footwear brands to design sneakers for athletes.
2. Fashion and Apparel - The luxury athleisure trend provides an opportunity for fashion and apparel companies to expand their product lines and enter the sports apparel market with high-end activewear.
3. Footwear - The trend of celebrity-designed footwear provides an opportunity for footwear brands to collaborate with popular celebrities to create signature sneakers and capitalize on their fan base.