New Balance introduces a special-edition version of its Made in UK Allerdale, bringing Harris Tweed fabric and black tumbled leather to the unisex silhouette. The new “Raven with Chipmunk” colorway draws from traditional British clothing, using a combination of materials associated with country dressing. A houndstooth pattern in black, tan and brown defines the textile panels, while the shoe retains the cushioning technology and practical details of the original design.
SNEAKERS
The release places particular attention on the upper, where New Balance combines two materials with distinct textures and purposes. Black tumbled leather forms the main structure, giving the shoe a substantial appearance and providing support around the foot. Harris Tweed from the Hebrides introduces a woven surface across selected panels, adding a patterned element to the otherwise dark construction. The contrast between the leather and wool creates a restrained color scheme that draws attention to the materials themselves.
The houndstooth check carries a connection to Scottish textile traditions. New Balance traces the pattern to Scotland in the 1880s, when it became associated with outdoor clothing. Its arrangement of angular shapes gives the Allerdale a recognizable reference to traditional tailoring. The combination of black, tan and brown allows the pattern to sit naturally alongside the leather.
New Balance also considers the practical requirements of a shoe that incorporates wool fabric. A wax finish provides water resistance, helping protect the upper from moisture. This treatment adds a functional quality to the material selection and supports the Allerdale’s outdoor-inspired construction. The brand pairs these details with hiking-style hardware, extending the shoe’s connection to traditional footwear designed for everyday use.
D-ring eyelets run along the lace-up closure, providing an adjustable fit and introducing a detail commonly associated with hiking boots. Their presence gives the Allerdale a more rugged appearance while complementing the leather and tweed construction. New Balance keeps the branding relatively discreet, placing an embroidered Flying NB logo on the saddle. The stitched emblem works with the textile elements and maintains the shoe’s focus on materials and surface texture.
Underfoot, the Allerdale incorporates FuelCell cushioning within a cupsole construction. New Balance uses the foam compound across its performance footwear, where it provides a responsive sensation during movement. In the Allerdale, the technology supports a design that draws heavily from traditional footwear. An OrthoLite insole provides an additional layer of comfort inside the shoe. New Balance completes the construction with a rubber outsole that supplies traction during everyday wear.
The New Balance Made in UK Allerdale “Raven with Chipmunk” brings together recognizable elements of British textile design and modern footwear technology. Harris Tweed gives the silhouette its distinctive appearance, while the leather construction, water-resistant finish and cushioning system support everyday use.
Name: New Balance Made in UK Allerdale Harris Tweed Luxe Leather
Colorway: Raven with Chipmunk
SKU: UADWHTW
MSRP: $249.99 USD
Release Date: November 20
Where to Buy: New Balance
