UPDATE: After a quick call to the customer care line at NB, the nice young lady said that this was just a rumor and their is no update planned for the men’s running 2001.  I know that this is not true, but it may be more like 3rd quarter 09 instead of this January.  I guess we will see if NBKicks knows whats going on.

Nb will release a series of kids classics featuring some Sesame Street favorites.  These little classics are on the timeless 574 frame and range in sizes from an infant 2 all the way to a kids 7.  The smaller sizes will start at about $40 with the larger sizes pricing out at $60.  I expect these babies to be a hit, definitely can’t miss.  NB Concept stores should have them in the middle of this week, followed by a national release of July 1st.

Elmo has a smooth leather upper.  The Cookie Monster has a Velvet Nubuck upper.  Oscar the Grouch is sporting a suede upper.  Enjoy!

The downside to this change is that if you love the roominess of your current shoe, you may not like the updates cut.  Of course you can try a wider size, but I would suggest stocking up on what you love.  This being said, if you have a narrow foot or you like your shoes snug then old off until after the new year for some new shoes.

The replacements for the following running shoes will have the PL-1 last:

1062, 903, 768, 748, 8508

The New Balance 805 is a lightweight trainer designed for the athlete preparing for a variety of sporting activities, and who use speed and interval training as their main form of conditioning.  This trainer comes in a variety of colors and is available in medium and wide.  This shoe has a very breathable upper, Lightning Dry upper, and an Acteva midsole, weighing in at only 281 grams (9.91 ounces).  The Abzorb insert and the full length Abzorb strobel board create a nice first feel.  The shoe has a very snug fit, so try it a half size larger than you’re other NB’s. 

The 805 has a very unique forefoot design, with lots of forefoot cushioning.  Not a good choice as a everyday trainer if you are a heel striker.  Chi Runners, or midfoot strikers have liked the placement and feel of the cushioning system. A perfect choice for Chi Runners looking for a lightweight training or racing shoe.

Zappos has them for $89.00 and free shipping both ways. New Balance Tampa has the best price I’ve found at $79.99 but customer pays return shipping.

Check out these little kicks!  Kicks-n-Jams posted these great picks a bit ago, but if you haven’t seen them here they are.  These little statuettes are modeled after the timeless 576, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary.  They picked up some sweet styles can any of you sneaker heads identify them all?  No release date as of yet.

NB-blog and Nice Kicks both previewed the 576 Elements Collection.  These three 576s are said to be inspired by Chinese Taoism and the basis of the universe.  The Earth, Wood and Water 576 are in truth just take downs of the ST 33’s that released October 07.  All 3 feature leather uppers and less than inspired detailing.  These are tier 2 at best.  Not NB’s classics departments best work.  I understand if you don’t agree but take a look at all the pictures and then see what you think!  All these pictures are property of NBKicks.com, feel free to use them just make sure you show the love.

 The trail running 874 has been out for a couple of weeks and is getting great reviews.  The Runer’s World, April 2008 had the following to say:

New Balance focused on tightening up the arch area of this update. The laces connect to an independent inner liner that, when pulled taut, holds the foot more securely on the sole. The new memory-foam sockliner is built up a bit under the arch to help lock the foot in place. A mix of hard- and sticky-rubber lugs provides excellent traction and a supportive foundation. Another nice feature: The upper overlays and mesh are made with 30-percent-recycled material. Recommended for runners with normal arches looking for a firm midfoot fit.

 This update to the award winning 873 runs more narrow in the forefoot.  If you ran in the 873 you want to get this shoe a little wider than the last.  They added more midfoot structure and drastically changed the sole and the toe from the previous model.  Overall this shoe is an upgrade but it fits and feels different than the last one so I’m sure some trail runners wont be happy.  I will say that you can not beat the new color.
 

Best places to buy: check it out here.