The realm of professional baseball, few names resonate as profoundly as Shohei Ohtani’s.enowned for his exceptional dual prowess as both a pitcher and hitter, Ohtani has continually defied the conventional boundaries of the sport.n 2024, this trailblazing athlete embarked on a new venture, collaborating with New Balance to design his first signature cleat, the Ohtani 1.his article delves into the intricate story behind this fan-favorite cleat, exploring the meticulous design process and the unique features that make it a standout in athletic footwear.
he journey to create the Ohtani 1 began approximately a year and a half before its official release.ew Balance’s design team, led by senior product manager Matt Nuzzo, designer Dan Webb, and developer Todd Hewett, recognized the need to craft a cleat that could accommodate Ohtani’s unparalleled dual-role demands.heir mission was to develop a shoe that offered comfort, durability, and an exceptional ground feel, essential for an athlete who excels both on the pitcher’s mound and in the batter’s box.
nderstanding Ohtani’s preference for consistency, the design team focused on creating a cleat that would feel uniform regardless of his role on the field.his led to the development of a low-profile shoe, a design choice inspired by Japanese baseball footwear, which typically features a closer connection to the ground to enhance leverage and stability.y reducing the midsole foam, the Ohtani 1 allows for a heightened ground feel, enabling Ohtani to maintain optimal performance whether he’s pitching or hitting. o ensure the cleat could withstand the rigors of a demanding baseball season, the team incorporated a premium polyurethane (PU) upper, known for its superior durability and flexibility.his material choice ensures that the cleat remains resilient without compromising the necessary flexibility for dynamic movements.dditionally, the integration of New Balance’s FuelCell foam provides responsive cushioning, further enhancing comfort during prolonged periods of play.
hile performance was paramount, the aesthetic design of the Ohtani 1 was crafted to reflect both Ohtani’s personal style and his cultural heritage.htani expressed a desire for a “classic” look, leading to the selection of neutral tones complemented by Marsh Green accents, reminiscent of the infield dirt and outfield grass.his blend of traditional and modern elements is evident in the woven jackets, pants, and cotton tees that accompany the cleat in the signature collection. distinctive feature of the cleat is the raised triangular pattern on the toebox, inspired by the geometric designs found in the ceilings of several Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) stadiums in Japan.his design not only adds a unique visual element but also symbolizes strength and stability, qualities intrinsic to Ohtani’s athletic performance.
he release of the Ohtani 1 was part of a broader signature collection that includes both on-field performance gear and off-field sportswear essentials.ollaborating with New Balance’s Tokyo Design Studio, the collection features apparel with design elements that pay homage to baseball’s heritage.or instance, the overlocking stitch lines on the French Terry pieces mimic the stitching on a baseball, and many items feature double pockets, a nod to Ohtani’s dual talents as a two-way player. he collection also introduces Ohtani’s personal logo, a sketch of him rounding first base.his logo represents his athleticism and unique capabilities as both a hitter and pitcher, encapsulating a significant moment in his already historic career.
he unveiling of the Ohtani 1 during the 2024 All-Star Week marked a significant milestone for both Shohei Ohtani and New Balance.or Ohtani, it represented a fusion of his cultural heritage and personal style with cutting-edge athletic performance.or New Balance, it was an opportunity to showcase their commitment to innovation and their ability to cater to the unique needs of a generational talent. n conclusion, the Ohtani 1 is more than just a cleat; it is a testament to the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, performance and aesthetics.t reflects a deep respect for the heritage of baseball while embracing the innovative spirit of an athlete who continues to redefine the game.s fans and athletes alike celebrate this collaboration, the Ohtani 1 stands as a symbol of what can be achieved when meticulous design meets unparalleled talent.