Rukus Aim Towards the Sky With Their New Balance Numeric 480

Between and , Rukus are always prepared to tap into their Louisiana culture. For their latest colab, they bring us the ‘Mallard Duck’, inspired by the region’s well-documented duck-hunting history.

The aquatic bird’s yellow bill and brown feathers are translated onto the upper through a blend of pebbled yellow leather and brown suede. Green suede on the tongue and heel, as well as an iridescent green 'N' logo, resemble the duck’s colourful head. Completing the interpretation is the webbed-feet-orange outsole. Rukus branding appears on the tongue tag and duck-camo-printed insoles, tying into the hunter’s attire of choice.

The camouflage pattern continues on the special box packaging which includes a shimmering dust bag inside. Additional accessories come in the form of a Rukus-branded set of binoculars and a bird call, bringing the hunting theme full circle. While the classic light gun shooter NES video game Duck Hunt was not an official reference in the release's design, it has been included in the promotional campaign as a bonus dose of nostalgia.

Rukus are set to drop the New Balance Numeric 480 ‘Mallard Duck’ on December 6 via a pop-up event and through their website, with a wider release coming at a later date. Keep it locked to Sneaker Freaker for all the info.

Looking for more unique colabs from the New Balance Numeric line? Check out the recent from Austin-based skate shop, No Comply.