The "dad shoe" has moved past its status as a mere trend to become a foundational element of modern industrial design in footwear. New Balance, a primary architect of this movement, is now iterating on its bulky 9060 silhouette by stripping away the heel. The result, the 9060 Summer, is a structural hybrid that exists at the intersection of a sneaker, a mule, and a technical sandal.
The design maintains the aggressive, maximalist forefoot of the original 9060 but introduces a heel strap and an open-back construction for seasonal utility. Perhaps the most significant functional update is the replacement of traditional laces with an adjustable toggle system. This "trail-coded" modification aligns the shoe with the broader "gorpcore" movement, where heavy-duty outdoor utility is repurposed for the ergonomics of urban leisure.
Available in monochromatic white and black, the model emphasizes form and texture over color. This minimalist palette highlights the complex, sculptural layering of the 9060’s midsole and upper. The collection is scheduled to debut on April 23 through atmos Tokyo, retailing for approximately $125, marking another step in the footwear industry's ongoing fascination with modular, category-defying silhouettes.
With reporting from Highsnobiety.
Source · Highsnobiety
