CNCPTS x New Balance 997 Made in USA "Montage" U997CNP

The CNCPTS x New Balance 997 “Montage” lands with an edge that feels true to 90s grit. This pair leans into that raw, DIY spirit the era was known for, giving the shoe a worn-in look straight out of the box. If you enjoy sneakers with personality and a bit of tension in the design, this one pulls you in fast.

The midsole has scuffing baked into it. It looks lived-in, almost like it’s been part of your rotation for years. The exposed foam tongue adds to that rough, unfinished tone. Then you notice the scribbled forefoot marking in black. It gives the shoe an offbeat touch that stands apart from CNCPTS’ usual clean, colour-heavy work. A red “CNCPTS” stamp hits the back tab, standing out against the darker build.

Around the toe box sits perforated grey suede. The texture feels soft but firm enough for daily wear. The upper moves into black suede along the tongue and heel, which helps anchor the brighter accents. Semi-translucent N logos sit on the sidewalls, catching light without distracting from the rest of the build. Pops of yellow near the forefoot and pink near the heel give the shoe small bursts of colour that lift the darker palette without overwhelming it.

Fans of CNCPTS will notice how different this 997 feels. Instead of relying on tonal, smooth storytelling like past pairs such as the “Rosé,” this version leans into contrast, messiness and attitude. It respects the 997’s history while pushing it somewhere more expressive.