[Update 3 Jul 2023] Here’s another look at the rumored Concepts x New Balance 998. While we are still waiting for a confirmed release date, the rumor mill has it that this follow-up sneaker between the longtime Boston-based collaborators will be dropping this year. Follow along for more latest updates!

Concepts has been serving with their collaborative Lobster Nike SB Dunks but many might also remember that the streetwear store is also a proud longtime collaborator of fellow Boston-based neighbor New Balance.

Over the years, Concepts and New Balance have joined hands several times to gift us conceptual shoes in a mix of colors and textures. The themes are wide-ranging, spanning football, auto race, to even the mallard duck—a bird commonly found in New England. And the silhouette that the partners kept coming back to? The New Balance 998.

Over the weekend, an image of a new pair of New Balance 998 was leaked and its lush magenta shade immediately caught our eyes. According to sneaker website Up To Date—NB heads rejoice—this is likely to be the next Concepts x New Balance 998.

The image features a top-down shot of a brightly-hued New Balance 998. White perforated leather covers the uppers, while rich pink suede overlays wrap around the mudguard, forefoot and heel areas. There are also hits of orange, grey and what looks like 3M reflective material.

Another interesting design detail is the New Balance branding at the tongue. The text “998 New Balance MADE IN USA” is embroidered in orange thread on the right shoe and white on the left. The laces also seemed to come in two different colors—grey for the right and white for the left.

As of the time of writing, neither brands have confirmed the existence of a new Concepts x New Balance 998. However, the bright eye-catching color palette does look like something from Concepts’ recent offerings. Stay tuned as we continue to bring you more updates on this pair.

In other sneaker-related news, check out the latest Bad Bunny x adidas Forum Buckle Low.