Reviewing The Kith x New Balance 997.5 “Easter”
The Basics
In a surprise move, Kith and New Balance have reunited to release the Kith x New Balance 997.5 "Easter Pack", marking a return to the beloved hybrid silhouette. This limited-edition pack features two fresh colorways—White/Marshmallow/Angora and White/Ice Blue/Peach—each crafted with premium materials like tumbled leather, perforated mesh, and suede overlays.
Originally available exclusively through early access on the Kith app for 24 hours starting March 27, 2025, at a retail price of $210 USD per pair , a second raffle has been scheduled to end April 6, 2025 . In this review, we'll delve into the design, craftsmanship, and overall appeal of the Ice Peach iteration.
Quality
How Good Are The Materials?
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One of the highlights of the Kith x New Balance 997.5 “Easter” is the premium suede, both in material quality and thoughtful placement.
Rich suede wraps the toe, heel, and midfoot, adding texture and structure where it matters most. The toe cap and heel feature a slightly thicker cut for durability, while the side panels use a softer, finer nap that catches light beautifully.
It’s a perfect balance of softness and support that enhances the pastel tones and reinforces the overall craftsmanship.
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The light beige mesh used on the toe box and underlays adds a soft, neutral tone that blends seamlessly with the rest of the shoe. Its subtle hue complements the pastel colors and enhances the subdued, spring-inspired Easter theme.
The mesh not only provides a lightweight, breathable feel but also ties together the shoe’s understated aesthetic, balancing the slightly richer tones of the suede and leather.
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The tumbled leather makes its way to the shoe’s collar and comes in a light green color, adding a subtle yet striking visual contrast to the rest of the materials. Its unique texture brings a premium touch while enhancing the overall design with a bit of extra visual interest.
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Subtle 3M hits on the “N” logo and around the heel add a functional edge without overpowering the design. In low light, these reflective touches give the shoe a sleek pop that feels both modern and purposeful. Harkening back to the shoe’s original running shoe roots.
How Good Is The Craftsmanship?
The craftsmanship on this pair is top-tier, which is what you'd expect from a Made in USA New Balance release. From the moment you take them out of the box, you can see and feel the difference.
The stitching is clean and consistent with no loose threads, and the panels are precisely cut and aligned—a small detail that goes a long way in the overall presentation. The suede used on the upper is buttery soft with a rich nap, and the transitions between materials are seamless, showing real attention to detail. Even the midsole is flawlessly molded, with no excess glue or uneven edges, which is often an issue with lesser-quality pairs.
While quality control can still vary slightly from pair to pair, this one is a great example of why New Balance’s domestic manufacturing is so highly regarded.
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Comfort & Fit
How Is The Sizing and Comfort?
The fit of the Kith x New Balance 997.5 “Easter” is similar to the New Balance 998, thanks to the hybrid midsole that offers a slightly more snug, supportive feel around the foot. The cushioning is firm yet comfortable, providing a balance between responsiveness and comfort for all-day wear. The shoe has a good amount of structure, making it ideal for those who prefer a more tailored fit.
For sizing, I’d recommend going true to size, but keep in mind that sizing can vary depending on personal preferences and foot shape. If you like a bit more room in the toe box, you might want to go half a size up.
The Bottom Line
The Kith x New Balance 997.5 “Easter” is a well-executed collaboration that blends quality materials, thoughtful color placement, and seasonal vibes into one clean package. From the premium suede and tumbled leather to the subtle 3M hits and pastel tones, this pair stands out without trying too hard. If you missed out on the initial release, pairs are still floating around on the secondary market—but as with most Kith collaborations, prices are likely to rise over time. So if this one’s on your radar, now’s the time to make a move.
