NEW BALANCE x AIMÉ LEON DORE 990AL5

Aimé Leon Dore aka ALD is a Queens, NY based company that started in 2014, but just recently has been all the craze in the NB community. Their first project; a pair of multi-colored 997’s, sold like wildfire and were probably the reason why NB resellers exist today. They have been sitting at around $500 even almost a year later, but we aren’t here to talk about their first NB project, we’re here to talk about their 2nd: 990v2 and 990v5.

Sadly, I wasn’t able to get my hands on either pair come launch day due to the swarm of bots used to purchase pairs, but little did I know…someone was looking out for me. I received a DM from a buddy of mine at my favorite boutique informing me of an unclaimed sz11 in the 990AL5.

This pair is exceptionally more appealing in person rather than viewing online. The AL5 includes tasteful placement of ALD branding that can be found on the side panel, heel, and insole. The insole branding is raised and does feel a little odd under your heel, but you get used to it after some walking.

I’m not sure if I’m convinced that their lace material was the best choice. The laces seem to be like a linen or cotton base, which is flimsy. I would’ve preferred the more tight woven lace that is typically found in a NB. This pair comes with a cream pair and blue pair that matches the mesh beautifully, and was my lace of choice to throw in.

Believe it or not…this is my first 990v5. I definitely didn’t plan for this to be my first, but I’m happy it is. I think this will be a banger pair for the upcoming winter months here in cali. The emerald green and blurpleish tones will work well with our cool weather and grey skies. I may even take a trip up to Tahoe to shoot them in the snow.