Bape Sta X New Balance 57/40 Shoes

In 2022, iconic Japanese streetwear brand BAPE (A Bathing Ape) and classic American sneaker maker New Balance teamed up once again, this time reimagining the New Balance 57/40 silhouette in a fresh collaborative capsule that captured the attention of sneaker fans worldwide.

A Legacy Meets Modern Expression

BAPE and New Balance’s partnership stretches back years, with previous collaborations paving the way for this next chapter. The 57/40 silhouette itself is a modern reinterpretation of New Balance’s beloved 574 — blending retro inspiration with contemporary design cues that thrive in today’s fashion and streetwear culture.

Unlike many performance-driven sneakers, the 57/40 is positioned as a lifestyle runner — a shoe that merges classic comfort with bold style. BAPE’s involvement adds a layer of streetwear credibility and visual flair that resonates outside typical sneaker circles.

Three Striking Colorways

The collaboration dropped as a three-pack, each colorway offering a distinct personality for different tastes:

Green Camo: Drawing on BAPE’s signature ABC camo, this version mixes earthy greens and tans on a mesh and suede upper, pairing the oversized camo-patterned “N” logo with subtle nods to outdoor aesthetics.
Grey / Greyscale: A more subdued yet premium look, this pair features classic grey mesh and black suede overlays, complemented by BAPE’s camo on the oversized New Balance “N” and shark-tooth detailing around the heel collar.
Multi-Color: For those who love expressive sneakers, this iteration bursts with bold hues — orange, blue, pink, and lavender — standing out boldly against a crisp white mesh base.

Across all styles, co-branding is thoughtful and detailed: mismatched tongue tags with both BAPE and New Balance logos, asymmetric heel branding featuring “A BATHING APE” and the iconic Ape Head, and signature shark detailing that nods to BAPE’s famed hoodies.

Design Highlights

What truly sets this collaboration apart isn’t just the color — it’s the fusion of two iconic brands’ DNA:

Oversized “N” Logo: Wrapped in BAPE’s ABC camo motif, making the silhouette instantly recognizable.
Shark Motif: A subtle but bold cut of the BAPE shark design around the heel collar adds an aggressive edge to the classic New Balance profile.
Premium Materials: A mix of mesh, suede, and leather construction offers both durability and depth, while a stacked EVA foam midsole ensures everyday comfort.

Release & Reception

The collection officially hit BAPE’s webstore and select shops in late July 2022, with retail prices around $160 USD per pair. Some colorways — especially limited releases like the green camo — have since appreciated in resale markets due to their unique blend of style and limited availability.

Sneakerheads and fashion enthusiasts have celebrated the drop for its fresh take on a lifestyle classic, praising its versatility — from casual streetwear fits to fashion-forward seasonal looks. The collaboration also included matching apparel items like hoodies, tees, and caps, giving fans the chance to build coordinated outfits that reflect the capsule’s aesthetic.

Why It Matters

The BAPE x New Balance 57/40 project represents more than just another limited sneaker drop. It’s a cultural moment — one that bridges heritage sneaker design with contemporary streetwear influence. In an era where collaborations define hype and authenticity, this release stands out for balancing bold creativity with classic roots, appealing to both nostalgic collectors and new-generation trendsetters.