Imagine a sneaker that captures the serene beauty of the deepest lake in the United States. Sounds impossible, right? But that’s exactly what Salehe Bembury has achieved with his latest New Balance collaboration, inspired by Oregon’s breathtaking Crater Lake. This isn’t just another shoe release—it’s a wearable tribute to nature’s majesty, and it’s turning heads in the sneaker world.
Following his nature-inspired series with New Balance, Bembury’s newest creation, the Salehe Bembury x New Balance 992 “Calm Be the Crater,” ditches the typical model-centric campaign for something far more unique. Instead, the star of the show is Crater Lake National Park itself, where the sneaker’s design mirrors the park’s stunning landscapes. From the shaggy suede to the smooth nubuck and mesh, the upper blends shades of gray, blue, and green, evoking the lake’s tranquil waters and surrounding forests. And here’s where it gets interesting: the bold yellow “N” logo and subtle pops of yellow on the heel cage aren’t just for show—they’re a nod to the park’s vibrant details, like sunlight glinting on the water.
But here’s where it gets controversial: while most sneaker collaborations rely on flashy concepts or celebrity endorsements, Bembury’s approach is refreshingly understated. By letting the natural world take center stage, he’s challenging the industry’s norms. Is this a genius move or a missed opportunity for hype? Let’s discuss in the comments.
This release also marks Bembury’s first take on the iconic 992 model, which debuted in 2006 as part of New Balance’s 100th-anniversary celebration. Fun fact: Steve Jobs was a fan of the original 992, cementing its status as a cultural icon. After years in the archives, the model made a comeback in 2020, and Bembury’s version adds a fresh, nature-inspired twist.
And this is the part most people miss: Bembury isn’t just a collaborator—he’s a trailblazer. Last fall, he launched his own independent sneaker brand, Spunge, proving he’s not just riding the wave but creating it. This New Balance collaboration is another step in his evolution as a designer.
The “Calm Be the Crater” sneaker drops this Thursday on Bembury’s website, priced at $220. While a New Balance release might follow, there’s no guarantee—so act fast if you want to snag a pair. But here’s the real question: Can a sneaker truly capture the essence of a natural wonder? Or is it just a clever marketing gimmick? Share your thoughts below—we’re all ears!
