Extremely Rare Sashiko Gals x New Balance 1300JP Drop

Japanese handcraft meets archival New Balance heritage in an ultra limited charity driven release.

A “Crafted for the Future” Partnership

New Balance Japan has unveiled a new project titled “Crafted for the Future” in collaboration with Sashiko Gals.

This is a community of Japanese artisans dedicated to bringing traditional sashiko embroidery into contemporary culture.

The centerpiece of this initiative is a hand‑crafted take on the iconic New Balance 1300JP, one of the brand’s most revered Made in Japan silhouettes.

Priced at ¥363,000 JPY (approximately $2,340 USD), this release instantly positions itself as both an art piece and a collector’s grail.

Hand Stitched Sashiko on the 1300JP

The Sashiko Gals x New Balance 1300JP features hand‑made sashiko fabric patches applied across the entire upper.

The result is a culturally rich aesthetic loaded with intricate details and visual depth.

Rather than printing or machine-embroidering patterns, the artisans employ traditional sashiko stitching.

This method was historically used for reinforcement and decoration on workwear. On the 1300JP, that technique is elevated into a modern art form.

Beyond Footwear (A Premium Varsity Jacket)

The collaboration extends beyond sneakers to include a joint premium varsity jacket inspired by classic American sports heritage.

This piece mirrors the east‑meets‑west story of the shoe. It features a familiar varsity silhouette reworked with sashiko patterning and stitching.

The jacket showcases the same distinct sashiko aesthetic. This highlights how the technique can live across categories from footwear to apparel without losing its cultural authenticity.

Ultra Limited Release with a Charitable Purpose

What makes this project even more special is its extreme scarcity and philanthropic focus:

• Only two pairs of the Sashiko Gals x New Balance 1300JP will be released.

• Only four jackets will be made available.

• All items will be distributed via a charity-based lottery held exclusively at New Balance Harajuku.

Every yen of proceeds will be donated to MOONSHOT Inc. to support a program dedicated to developing sashiko artists and providing them with a platform to showcase their work.

That means each purchase directly funds the next generation of artisans, ensuring that sashiko continues to evolve and thrive rather than remain a static tradition.

Where and How to Try Your Luck

With the release date and color code still to be confirmed, this drop will be one of the rarest New Balance collaborations to date.

Those interested will need to enter the charity lottery in person at New Balance Harajuku, where both the sneakers and jackets will be available in strictly limited numbers.