The wait for Tyrese Maxey’s first signature basketball shoe is officially coming to an end. New Balance has confirmed that the Maxey V1 will make its retail debut on October 2, giving fans their first chance to buy the low-cut performance model that the Philadelphia 76ers star has been wearing on court. The debut sneakers will arrive in a black and blue colorway for $130.
The release marks an important step in Maxey’s growing relationship with New Balance. After joining the brand in 2023, the guard quickly became one of its most recognizable basketball athletes, and his first signature model brings together the fast-paced demands of his game with design cues borrowed from some of New Balance’s most recognizable lifestyle sneakers.
New Balance Maxey V1 Brings Lifestyle Design to Basketball
The New Balance Maxey V1 takes a noticeably different approach from the bulkier look often associated with performance basketball shoes. The low-cut silhouette is built around flowing, wavy paneling that runs across the upper and continues visually into the sculpted midsole.
Much of that design language comes from the New Balance 9060, a lifestyle model that Maxey has specifically cited as an inspiration for the shoe. The influence is easy to spot in the exaggerated curves and sculpted heel, giving the basketball shoe a more fashion-conscious appearance without abandoning its performance purpose.
The lacing system also takes subtle inspiration from the New Balance 2002, while the overall shape creates a streamlined profile that feels distinctly different from some of the brand’s other basketball offerings. Rather than making the traditional “N” logo the center of attention, the shoe relies more heavily on its construction and silhouette to communicate its New Balance identity.
That was intentional for Maxey, who wanted a shoe recognizable enough that it would not need an oversized logo to announce what it was.
Built for Tyrese Maxey’s Explosive Style of Play
While the design has plenty of lifestyle influence, the New Balance Maxey V1 is ultimately built around what Maxey does best: speed.
The shoe uses FuelCell cushioning in the midsole, giving the model a responsive foundation designed for a guard who constantly changes direction and accelerates into space. One of its most notable technical features is a two-piece plate system, replacing the more conventional single full-length plate construction.
The system is designed to provide support where Maxey needs it most, particularly around the midfoot and arch. That added containment is paired with a multidirectional rubber outsole intended to provide traction during quick cuts, lateral movements and sudden changes of pace.
For a player whose game is built around attacking gaps and getting downhill, those details make sense. The result is a performance shoe that does not look as aggressively technical as some basketball sneakers, but still puts considerable attention into underfoot stability and movement.
Maxey V1 Made Its On-Court Debut in 2026
Fans did not have to wait until the retail launch to see the shoe in action. Maxey first debuted the model during the 2026 NBA postseason, giving sneaker enthusiasts an early look at his signature silhouette before New Balance revealed its complete retail details.
The timing has also made sense from a basketball standpoint. Maxey enters the 2026-27 season with increased attention following his first All-Star selection and All-NBA recognition, further cementing his position as one of Philadelphia’s central stars.
That visibility gives New Balance a significant opportunity to introduce its newest signature athlete to a wider audience. Maxey’s quick, energetic playing style is also naturally suited to a sneaker campaign built around speed, movement and modern design.
New Balance Maxey V1 Release Date and Price
The first New Balance Maxey V1 will officially release on October 2, 2026. The debut black and blue colorway will retail for $130 USD and will be available through the New Balance website and select retailers.
The initial release is only the beginning. New Balance has confirmed that additional colorways are expected to arrive throughout the 2026-27 NBA season, giving Maxey and his growing sneaker following more versions of the signature model to look forward to.
With its 9060-inspired construction, FuelCell cushioning and two-piece plate system, the Maxey V1 gives New Balance a fresh entry into the performance basketball market. More importantly, it gives Tyrese Maxey a signature shoe that feels closely connected to both his playing style and his personal taste.
For fans who have been watching the New Balance Maxey V1 develop since its on-court debut, October 2 will finally be the moment when the first pair moves from the NBA hardwood to retail shelves.
Shop editor’s favorites
Featured image: New Balance
—Read Also
