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The Collectors: 997 Nuts Obsession | Car Enthusiasts

Unveiling the Holy Grails

In the expansive universe of sneaker enthusiasts, the New Balance 997 stands as an iconic emblem, embodying more than just footwear—it represents a passion, an obsession, and a commitment to collecting. Our journey transcends borders and spans eras to unravel the tales of the most dedicated New Balance 997 enthusiasts. Each story is a chapter in the saga of these dedicated collectors, each holding a treasure trove of shoes that not only span years but also encapsulate a love that knows no bounds.

Woody’s Revelation: The Holy Grail of Holy Grails

Woody, the visionary founder of Sneaker Freaker, casts light on the zenith of New Balance collecting. A white leather 997 adorned with delicate blue accents emerges as the rarest gem among the OG releases—a Holy Grail within the Holy Grails for aficionados of New Balance. Jene Conrad’s fortuitous acquisition in 2010, procured during a liquidation by a renowned sneaker collector, signifies a pivotal moment in preserving what may possibly be the last remaining deadstock vintage pair globally. This remarkable pair stands as a testament to preservation, notably showcasing the enduring Polyurethane midsole, notorious for its tendency to crumble with time.

Mike ‚Crispy‘ Coyle’s Love Affair

Delving into the allure of the OG grey variant with its reflective ‚N‘ logo, Mike ‚Crispy‘ Coyle articulates his deep admiration for the 997. The combination of a diesel midsole, sumptuous pigskin suede, and the mesh architecture culminates in a symbiotic harmony that exudes an almost indestructible quality. As murmurs regarding the potential USA-made reissue circulated, anticipation peaked, compelling Coyle to acquire multiple pairs—each purchase a testament to his enduring love affair with the 997.

Matt Kyte’s Quest for Scarce Vintage Pairs

Matt Kyte, an adept 997 collector, sheds light on the intricate world of vintage 997s. Handcrafted with an element of unpredictability, the 997 wasn’t considered scarce during its initial release. However, as time progressed, acquiring vintage pairs evolved into a formidable challenge. Kyte’s insights offer a glimpse into the scarcity and elusive nature of these historical sneakers, painting a vivid picture of the dedication required for their procurement.

Richie Roxas’s Two-Decade Odyssey

Embarking on his New Balance odyssey in 1994, Richie Roxas shares anecdotes from a two-decade-long journey. Motivated by the pursuit of the elusive OG USA-made pair in grey, Roxas’s collection now boasts an orangey leather Asia-made 997—embellished with a distinctive plasticy ‚N‘ logo and a captivating triangle perforation pattern on the toe. Roxas’s journey echoes the fervor and commitment that define true sneaker collectors.

Tiago Ramos’s Asia-made 997 Fascination

For Tiago Ramos, the allure of the late ’90s Asia-made 997 is irresistible. The suede craftsmanship, paired with the neon plastic ‚N‘ logo, captures his attention. The CM997 versions, showcasing unparalleled craftsmanship, resonate deeply with Ramos, underscoring New Balance’s commitment to preserving its meticulous handmade process.

The One That Got Away: Richie Roxas’s Regret

Richie Roxas shares a poignant story from 1998, recounting an opportunity when the NB outlet in Boston offered the 997.5 for a mere $20. Regrettably, financial constraints led Roxas to pass on the opportunity. Subsequently repurposed by Roxas’s best friend’s father for lawn mowing, this missed chance left a lingering sense of what might have been—a tale of nostalgia and longing within the collector’s narrative.

Beyond Boundaries: Unique 997.5 Collaborations

Venturing into the realm of collaborations, the article explores exceptional 997.5 releases that transcend convention. From the PHANTACi 997.5 Jay Chou ‚The Orcs‘ to the unreleased sample of Sneaker Freaker 997.5 ‚Tassie Tiger,‘ each collaboration narrates a story of rarity, exclusivity, and distinctiveness—striking a chord with collectors on a profound level.

Poggy’s Rarity and Ronnie Fieg’s Grail Quest

Poggy, the director of United Arrows & Sons, shares insights into the exclusivity of the Beauty&Youth 997.5, exclusively sold in Japan. Ronnie Fieg, Kith CEO, recounts the challenges faced in acquiring a full pair, labeling them as the most elusive shoe in his extensive collection. These anecdotes enrich the narrative, illustrating the lengths collectors go to secure their coveted pairs.

Shunhang Li’s Mysterious 997.5

Shunhang Li introduces an element of intrigue to the story with the revelation of a unique 997.5—an amalgamation featuring the 997 sole and the 998 upper. With only two pairs ever seen, the origins and existence of this enigmatic hybrid remain shrouded in uncertainty. This mysterious 997.5 serves as a symbol of the cryptic nature that occasionally defines the world of sneaker collecting.

Jason Paparoulas’s 997 Reverence

Bringing the narrative into a contemporary context, Jason Paparoulas expresses admiration for the 997’s reissue. The timeless design, coupled with New Balance’s unwavering commitment to quality, has solidified the 997 as a staple in wardrobes—demonstrating the brand’s enduring relevance. As a collector, Paparoulas symbolizes the seamless connection between the past and present in the ever-evolving realm of sneaker culture.

The Legacy of the 997

As the curtain falls on this odyssey through the world of New Balance 997 collectors, the legacy of this iconic sneaker endures. From the vintage classics that marked an era to the contemporary reissues captivating new generations, each pair carries a tale of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering love for the 997. In the realm of enthusiasts turned collectors, the journey is never truly complete—it evolves, much like the New Balance 997 itself. The echoes of each collector’s story resonate through time, forming a symphony that celebrates not just a sneaker but a culture built on the art of collecting.