Via its iconic 581 style, New Balance is collaborating with four boutiques worldwide–Mita Sneakers in Tokyo, Kasina in Seoul,  24 Kilates in Spain and Bodega in Boston, Mass–with each one choosing materials and colors that tell a story about their stores. The 581 x Bodega shoe featured here was inspired by ’90s ski jackets. These should hit retail in about a month.

See all four styles on the next page.

Just had a chat with Darin Hager, designer for the up-and-coming Heyday footwear line. We were talking ’cause Darin wanted to let me know that his Spring 2009 line will include some designs that the ladies are gonna love. The brand is very new on the scene, but prior to the launch, Darin was designing for heavyweights like Puma and Sperry Topsider for a minute, and you don’t have to look close to see his experience reflected in his designs. In other words, this is not a Air Force One knock-off situation at all.

^^It’s hard to see the detail here, but Heyday’s signature is a triple stitch  that sets off a very cool frayed leather border as the shoe gets worn. You can buy ‘em at a bunch of boutiques, including the awesome Bodega (tho cheez, is that film loop on their site creepy or what??) and online at Karmaloop