Back in September we told you that New Balance was collaborating with snowboard company 686 to create a winter collection including boots, footwear, outerwear, and accessories.  Last night, New Balance and 686 celebrated the onset of cool weather with the East Coast launch party for this collaboration: the 686 Times New Balance Collection, which was held at renowned sneaker store, Concepts, in Cambridge MA.  More than 100 guests showed up for the celebration, including some key players from 686 and New Balance.

more pics and info on the collab after the jump

ABOUT THE COLLECTION:

At the forefront of the 686 X New Balance collection is the 580 Times New Balance Snowboard Boot. The boot combines proprietary New Balance patented technologies including Rollbar® stability and Abzorb® cushioning along with 686 BOA® FOCUS system and Recco® avalanche technology. The result is a fully functional, technically advanced snowboard boot with a sneaker-like fit.

To compliment the 686 X New Balance collection, we have customized one of our most celebrated silhouettes- the 580 – with Times collection colors and materials for off-mountain wear.

From its origins in the mid 90’s as a trail running sneaker, to the special modern day partnerships between iconic Japanese brands, the 580 has become a global object of obsession. The 580 Times New Balance Sneaker features timeless design qualities, premium materials and technological footwear advances in footwear.

While the 580 has a storied past, the special 686 models boast contemporary materials for clean styling and reliable comfort and fit. It is this combination of classic heritage and modern function that rests at the core of the 686/New Balance partnership.

The 686 X New Balance collection will also include: 575 Times Insulated Jacket featuring Infidry® dry technology, DWR durable water repellency and Recco® avalanche rescue system technology; 580 Times 3-Ply Jacket with fully taped 3-ply seams, water resistant technology and Recco® avalanche rescue system technology; 580 Times New Era Hat; Gradient Times Zip Hoody, Gradient Times T-shirt and Sole Times T-shirt.

The 580 Times Snowboard boot will be retailing for $300 and the 580s are retailing for $100.