The Espresso T500
Todd Snyder and New Balance released the Coffee Pack, a capsule that uses colors and flavors of coffee to update the T500. This collection should not be confused with the 2021 Nike capsule of the same name. I find the Espresso colorway particularly textured because it uses a brown "curling hairy suede" that is "a play on texture and color inspired by the ground beans and rising steam of a coffee shop." This version includes pebbled leather accents and a gum sole that creates a crema-like finish. The T500 has roots on the tennis court, though it now functions as a street staple for many people who want versatile footwear. I think the Espresso version is a bit too busy with its textures compared to a plain sneaker, but the coffee theme remains subtle. These shoes cost $130 through the Todd Snyder website. I note that the Espresso pair is moving fast.
| Feature | Espresso | Milk |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Color | Brown | Cream |
| Material | Hairy suede | Suede |
| Sole | Gum | Dark brown gum |
| Price | $130 | $130 |
Colorway differences
The Milk colorway draws from the lighter side of coffee using cream-colored suede and a high-contrast dark brown gum sole. I find the Milk version easier to wear because it lacks the heavy, textured suede found on the Espresso model. The colorways keep the coffee touches subtle and avoid becoming too loud or distracting. If you need a pair to wear during a bar shift that does not look like it went through a bar shift, the Espresso version provides a clean enough look. I think the Milk version provides a much more versatile appearance for everyday use compared to its much darker, textured counterpart.
The Milk option uses a cream-colored suede that pairs with a dark brown gum sole to create a high-contrast look for the wearer. I prefer the Milk version for its simplicity, whereas the Espresso version leans harder into the coffee aesthetic with its pebbled leather and hairy suede textures. Both pairs are available for $130 through the Todd Snyder website right now. I would grab the Espresso pair quickly if you like the darker, textured look, as it sells much faster than the Milk option. This collaboration brings coffee shop colors to your feet in a way that feels subtle for any wearer to enjoy.
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