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Did New Balance Already Dispatch the Dad Shoe to Beat in 2026?

The neutral palette of this Steven Smith classic underpins its premium build.

Beige New Balance 1500 sneaker with suede and mesh panels and white laces.New Balance
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By Jack Seemer

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Of all the classic silhouettes that make up the New Balance archive, those designed by Steven Smith are among the most revered.

Smith is nothing short of sneaker royalty, responsible for the Reebok Instapump Fury, Yeezy Foam Runner and, most recently, the Crocs Ripple.

But few, if any, of his creations have garnered a fanbase as loyal and diverse as the New Balance 1500. It’s a fact only likely to continue in 2026.

Pair of beige New Balance 1500 sneakers with white laces and mesh detailing on a white background.
First released in the 1980s, the New Balance 1500 is one of Steven Smith’s most iconic designs.
New Balance

New Balance plans to kick off 2026 on the right foot with a stunning rendition of Smith’s classic shoe design.

The upcoming 1500 “Vaporous Grey” is a study in subtle contrasts, thanks to tonal color blocking across its suede overlays, smooth-leather panels and mesh.

Beige and cream New Balance sneaker with suede and mesh upper and white laces on a white background.
Tonal color blocking creates a neutral, no-nonsense palette.
New Balance
Pair of beige New Balance sneakers shown from the back with white embroidered logo and black soles.
The shoe features both suede and smooth leather panels.
New Balance

Rest assured, its simple, neutral palette only showcases the shoe’s premium build. Like all Made in England New Balance models, this one hails from the brand’s factory in Flimby, UK.

Pair of beige New Balance sneakers with white laces and "Made in England" text on the tongue.
Like all Made in England New Balance models, this one hails from the brand’s factory in Flimby, UK.
New Balance

For good measure, the shoe also features an Encap-equipped midsole and rugged outsole, grounding the timeless design with functional elements that promise comfort and utility for years to come.

Beige and cream New Balance 1500 sneaker with suede and mesh upper and white laces.
The Encap-equipped midsole provides time-tested cushioning.
New Balance
Sole of a New Balance 1300 sneaker with black, gray, and maroon rubber tread.
Form meets function with details like a rugged outsole.
New Balance

Availability and pricing

The New Balance 1500 “Vaporous Grey” is expected to release in January for around $230, the going rate for similar Made in England models.

Beige New Balance 1500 sneaker with white laces and light gray logo on white background.New Balance

New Balance 1500 “Vaporous Grey”

About the Author:

Jack Seemer is the executive editor at Gear Patrol, with over a decade of experience in product journalism. He currently reports on a wide range of topics, including footwear, watches, EDC, cookware and more.

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