Roland unveils TR-808 New Balance trainers for 808 day

Roland has teamed up with New Balance on a special edition trainer for 808 day.

In collaboration with skateboarder Tiago Lemos, New Balance and Roland will release the TR-808-themed design inspired by late ’90s and early aughts skate shoes this Thursday, 8th August. The Tiago Lemos NM808 x Roland sneaker features the Roland TR-808 logo on the tongue and footbed, with “Rhythm Composer” written on the outside heel, signature red, orange and yellow details, and detachable drum machine charm in a black suede and mesh colourway with white accents. The trainers retail for $119.99 (USD). 

“Hip-hop has been the soundtrack for my skating, and at the heart of many classics was the 808,” Lemos said in a press statement. “To have a collaboration with the legendary Roland 808 on my shoe is an honor”. 

New Balance and Roland will release a short film featuring Lemos and DJ and producer Cut Chemist on YouTube this Thursday. “The 808 is responsible for some of the most recognizable beats in modern music history”, Cut Chemist said. “It completely changed the game and is just as relevant today as it was at its inception. It’s truly the most important drum machine in hip-hop.”

For past 808 days, Roland has released limited-edition merch, like these bomber jackets, auctioned a one-of-a-kind BMX bike, and shared a short documentary about the history of the TR-808.