The New Balance - BB550STA The original 550 was released in 1989 and made its mark on basketball courts across the country. After the first edition, the 550 was filed in the archives before being reintroduced in a limited edition in late 2020. It returned to the regular range in 2021 and quickly became a global fashion favourite. The 550's low, streamlined silhouette is a clear nod to the rugged design of the late '80s. The reliable upper material made of leather, synthetic and mesh gives off a timelessly classic look.