There are few sneaker brands as closely associated with the cities of Baltimore and Washington, D.C. as New Balance. A pair of gray New Balances has been part of the area’s uniform since the 1980s, embraced by the city’s tastemakers long before collaborations made the brand trend. And while locals will debate at length about which city was first to put the sneakers on the map, the Boston-based sportswear company’s just-released “Baltimore vs. D.C.” pack isn’t about choosing a side. Instead, it’s meant to promote unity and give both cities their flowers.

Presented across two styles of New Balance’s Made in USA 993 model, the Baltimore vs. D.C. duo features distinctly different colorways, each representing different touch points of their respective cities. 

The Baltimore style is clad in a vibrant Team Red/True Red/Black Cement, which New Balance associate product manager Myles Williams says is inspired by the colors of the Maryland flag as well the signage of local staple Faidley’s Seafood. The pair comes with an alternate set of yellow shoelaces to further accentuate its theme. 

The collection’s Washington, D.C.-inspired look is dressed in Taro/Fairweather Blue/Sea Salt, a combination Williams tells The Baltimore Sun is inspired by the “free-flowing” energy felt during a day spent in the nation’s capital. 

“We wanted to take a step back and pay homage to where the trendsetters really started it,” Williams told the Baltimore newspaper.

Williams has previously highlighted Washington, D.C. inspiration on his work. A 2025 two-pack of “Slow Bounce” New Balance 993s took notes from the city’s enduring love for go-go music. 

The New Balance Made in USA 993 Baltimore vs. D.C. pack is available now from newbalance.com and select retailers. Each pair retails for $200.