Original Story (12/31/24): Brooklyn Projects and New Balance Numeric have teamed up to release a 480 High inspired by the heavy metal music scene of the 1980s.
“In the mid ’80s, the New Balance 480 Pride High was the shoe to have in the Heavy Metal scene, says Brooklyn Projects founder Dom DeLuca. “I used to go the the Avenue I Flea Market once a year and cop my pair. I would beat the shit out of them in the pit and on my BMX bike at the dirt trails. When New Balance Numeric re-did the 480 … my conversation and persistent asking to do something with THAT model finally came true after years of wishing.”
Brooklyn Projects’ iteration of the Numeric 480 High features a combination of black denim and leather construction, matching the uniform of heavy metal and thrash metal in the ’80s while also serving as a nod to the song “Denim and Leather” by the band Saxon. Additional details include the Brooklyn Projects logo embroidered on the back of the heels, contrast white stitching, co-branded tongue tags, and milky translucent midsoles.
A Friends & Family edition of the collaboration has also been teased by Brooklyn Projects. A promo image shared by the brand shows pro skater Ray Corey wearing a pair constructed with indigo blue suede.
The Brooklyn Projects x New Balance Numeric 480 High “Heavy Metal” (aka “Denim & Leather) is set to drop January 11, 2025 via Brooklyn Projects. A wider release will come later via the New Balance website and select retailers. Check out the preview below and stay tuned to Modern Notoriety for updates.
Update (01/12/25): Brooklyn Projects has postponed the release of the 480 High that was originally set to take place this weekend. Instead, Dom and his crew have been donating their entire clothing and footwear stock to victims of the devastating fires in Los Angeles. Those in LA who wish to donate can stop by the BP store at 7427 Melrose Ave to drop off items today until 6pm.
Update (02/26/25): Following the postponement, Brooklyn Projects is now ready to officially launch their NB# 480 project. The shoe will be available in both the black and the blue colorways, each limited to 574 pairs to pay homage to New Balance’s first style shoe, the 574. The blue colorway will be exclusive to Brooklyn Projects and comes in a special box.
Both colorways will release March 1st in-store at Brooklyn Projects’ Melrose and Westchester locations at 11am, as well as online on the Brooklyn Projects website at 12pm PST. A wider release for the black colorway will take place March 10th on the New Balance website and at select retailers.
Brooklyn Projects x New Balance Numeric 480 High
Color: Black
Style Code: NM480HDD
Release Date: March 1, 2025 (Brooklyn Projects)
Release Date: March 10, 2025 (Global)
Price: $125 USD
Brooklyn Projects x New Balance Numeric 480 High
Color: Blue
Release Date: March 1, 2025
Price: $125 USD
