Salehe Bembury x New Balance 1906r - Heat Be Hot 'Lava'
This is probably one of my favorite designs that Salehe has done since the PBTJ 2002r & his OG Croc set. The way the gradient contrasts w/ the silver panels is very well executed & makes it feel like a truly unique & honestly refreshing collab.
Materials: as most retro runners nowadays, the upper is a big hole mesh for added breathability, but what I love about this design is that gradient fade. Starting at the toe to the midfoot, the mesh is a yellow that fades into an orange near the middle of the sneaker, then finishes off in a red shade (fun fact: the gradient even carries throughout the tongue) sitting above the mesh is the silver panels with black inlays that contrasts the mesh beautifully. My favorite pop of color is on the sock liner, he went with a dark aqua-blue shade. This blue carries onto the tongue tag, where you'll find his signature thumbprint design. Lastly, I wanted to bring attention to the midsole. It has a grey base with black scuffs throughout it. It reminds me a lot of when you stomp out a fire and the black ash gets on your kicks. Idk overall, he really did an incredible job with these & the attention to detail was excellent.
Comfort/Sizing: the 1906r is one of the few models that I've been able to wear after my back injury. The comfort is pretty squishy since it uses the same outsole as the 2002r, therefore, the comfort will be similar. My only gripe with the 1906r is that the upper feels slightly unstable/loose. In terms of sizing, I'd go with your tts in these.
Overall Opinion: like I've mentioned numerous times already, this was a beautifully executed sneaker & honestly feels like a true collaboration. From the special box, to the unique mesh & hidden details throughout, this was a pair I'm really glad I was able to pickup. I know prices aren't cheap on the aftermarket currently, but I feel like in a few months, this cw will be similar to how his 2002r was an iconic design in his roster. I don't think you will be disappointed if you do grab this for resale & honestly feel better executed than most shoes in the same price range.