THE SUN’S OUT, the kids are off school and everyone is flocking to Melbourne. This can only mean one thing – the Australian Open is right around the corner. Indeed it is, and this year looks like it will be one of the best editions of the tournament. All the big names will be battling it out, with Aryna Sabalenka going for an Aus Open three-peat, Iga Swiatek hell-bent on getting her number one world ranking back, Coco Gauff hoping to maintain her momentum from late 2024 and plenty of dark horses ready to spoil the contenders’ parties.
As you can tell, there’s plenty of reasons to get around the tennis this year. But in case you need another, New Balance has just revealed its stylish and performance-focused Australian Open collection. You can expect the performance apparel to be worn by top players on the court, but look just as good off it.
Every piece in the new range has been designed with performance in mind, but New Balance was also keenly aware of its aesthetic responsibilities – particularly given the rise of ‘tennis core’ fashion. As a result, the collection blends form and function, with professional-grade performance gear that features colour palettes designed to complement the Australian outdoors, including shades of green, yellow, blue and other neutral tones. Not to mention the line’s signature NB Dry – New Balance’s fast-drying fabric that’s handy for active play.
In addition to the new collection, New Balance has also recently released a new signature shoe in collaboration with tennis phenom and current world number three Coco Gauff. The shoe, called the CG2, is Gauff’s second with New Balance. Guaff also happens to be the only player at the Open that’ll sport their own signature shoe.
The CG2’s new mid-cut silhouette is a distinct change from its predecessor and has a highly unconventional design for a tennis shoe, lending it a unique quality. The eye-catching design sacrifices nothing in performance, however, with a dual-density FuelCell midsole equipped with a carbon fibre plate providing comfort, a propulsive ride and essential stability.
If Gauff is to make a deep run at the Australian Open (she reached the semi-finals at last year’s tournament), you can expect to be seeing a lot of the CG2.
Back to New Balance’s new collection, the pieces don’t just look good, they’re built to be fit for purpose. For starters, there’s the collared tournament tank and micro-ribbed tank. Both are made from fast-drying fabric that wicks moisture from you almost as quickly as you can sweat it out. They’re lightweight and, being sleeveless, they’re not at all restrictive – which is important if you’re winding up for a powerful serve.
As for bottoms, you have a tournament skort, stretch woven shorts and 6-inch high rise shorts to choose from. In all cases, fast-drying fabric is used and the skirt even features sculpted pockets designed to hold tennis balls. With the woven shorts, the focus is on everyday wearability with unbeatable comfort. The high rise shorts have similar benefits, with a fold-over waistband for a comfortable and distraction-free fit.
Closing out the collection is outerwear and accessories, including a French terry polo sweatshirt, a woven jacket, hats, visors, tote bags, socks and headbands. All of these are built for everyday, easy wearing but are suitable for active lifestyles. As always, comfort takes precedent.
Ultimately, the new collection underscores New Balance’s commitment to pushing boundaries by merging sports with fashion. See something you like? The full range will be available to shop at New Balance’s retail activation at the Australian Open outside Rod Laver Arena, from January 6th. You can also find the range online at newbalance.com.au and australianopenshop.com. Finally, you can shop in person at New Balance’s Melbourne Central and Chadstone stores, as well as select Rebel Sport stores.
