Action Bronson’s upcoming collaboration with New Balance is the Queen’s Rapper at his boldest yet.
Considering the track record with almost abstract colorblocking, that truly feels like hyperbole. When you consider the upcoming sneaker he will be working on, though, the reality is this: this upcoming collaboration will be Bronson’s biggest sneaker litmus test.
Bronson’s upcoming project will be on a brand-new silhouette. Previously, the rapper had graced his world of colors on the 1906R and most recently, on the iconic 992. It has not been since his first collaboration on the 990v6 that Bronson has been tasked with rolling out a new sneaker through his world of design. Bronson, now, looks up to the challenge with the 1890.
Previewed by Bronson himself in late 2025, the Baklava 1890 will feature Bronson’s signature color clashes through two colorways. The uppers are contoured by sleek lines, while the popular full-length ABZORB midsole houses New Balance’s latest sneaker.
The 1890 will be chasing a similar success model to that of the 1906. The sneaker, which was reintroduced to the world by This is Never That, became a massive hit for New Balance through its versatility. From tasteful collaborations, including three from Action Bronson, to the polarizing 1906L Loafer, the sneaker became a canvas for New Balance’s biggest ideas.
Similarly, the 1890 has already debuted a loafer version at Paris Fashion Week. Now, New Balance is tasking one of their biggest partners to introduce the sneaker world to the 1890. If Bronson’s constant teasing of the upcoming sneaker is any indication, he is ready to grab the challenge by the horns.
New Balance has found its lane in the 2020s. The Boson brand has spent the last half-decade dominating conversations in the casual- sneaker space. Their constant presence on end-of- year lists is not a fluke. The brand has spent time carefully crafting its next big sneaker. Whether it was the 2002R, the 1906R, or now, the 1890, New Balance has mastered the art of rolling out their next big cross-over sneaker.
As an artist himself, Bronson is no stranger to the art of a rollout. After all, mastering it has aided in his career as one of New York’s best rappers for the last few decades.
We are now three years removed from when New Balance and Action Bronson first connected to help introduce the 990v6. Though the challenge may be familiar now with the 1890, the sneaker is a clean-slate for sneaker heads. To date, there has been no GR version for fans to dip their toes in. It will be Action Bronson’s responsibility to deliver to the world New Balance’s next big hit.
If today’s post, and potential reveal of a third colorway, is any indication, Dr Lecter is not scared of the challenge.
The New Balance & BAKLAVA 1890 is expected to drop this Spring.
