When Stone Island reimagines a classic, you know it’s going to involve some serious material innovation. The Italian powerhouse has taken New Balance’s beloved 574 silhouette — a sneaker that’s been reliably delivering on that hybrid road-to-trail aesthetic since 1988 — and wrapped it entirely in premium suede for the first time in its history. The three monotone colorways look like they emerged from some covert military operation, but with a tactile luxury that screams high-fashion streetwear.
Suede Everything, Including the Midsole
This collaboration taps into Stone Island’s Ghost collection philosophy, where the brand explores modern interpretations of camouflage through rich, earthy tones rather than traditional patterns. It’s an evolution from their previous New Balance partnerships, trading the technical bombast of past releases for something more understated yet arguably more sophisticated.
The most striking detail here isn’t just that the entire upper gets the suede treatment but that Stone Island convinced New Balance to wrap the midsole in matching suede too. We’re talking complete tonal consistency across black, dark grey, and brown colorways, where even the laces and branding disappear into the monochrome palette. The suede itself features intentional color variations that create natural shadow effects, giving each shoe depth without relying on contrasting panels or loud branding.
This isn’t your typical suede application either. The material appears thick and plush, almost felt-like in texture, which should provide decent durability despite suede’s typically delicate reputation. That said, anyone planning to actually trek in these might want to invest in some serious weatherproofing treatments first.
Military Heritage with Sneaker Legacy
Stone Island’s military-inspired design language has been the brand’s calling card since Massimo Osti founded it in 1982, originally drawing from actual military surplus and workwear. That ethos translates perfectly to the 574’s utilitarian roots; New Balance designed this silhouette as a versatile all-arounder that could handle both urban streets and light trails. The collaboration maintains the shoe’s original lugged wraparound sole and supportive structure while elevating the materials to match Stone Island’s premium edge. Yet the only obvious branding from Stone Island comes in the form of a compass badge on the tongue.
Spec Sheet
Model: Stone Island x New Balance 574 Ghost
Upper: Full suede construction with tonal variations
Midsole: Suede-wrapped ENCAP midsole
Outsole: Lugged rubber wraparound sole
Special Details: Stone Island compass badge, monochromatic lacing system
Release Date: September 23
Availability: Limited lottery system via Stone Island
Pricing & Availability
The Stone Island x New Balance 574 Ghost drops September 23 exclusively through Stone Island’s online lottery system and select flagship stores worldwide. Pricing hasn’t been announced yet.
Recap
Stone Island x New Balance 574 Ghost
Stone Island takes on the New Balance 574 with the new Ghost, wrapping the classic running silhouette in premium suede for the first time ever, creating three monochromatic colorways that blend military-inspired aesthetics with luxury streetwear sensibilities.
