New Balance’s 442 boot is a classic. As of yet, it’s not worn by any of the brand’s high-profile athletes but is loved by young footballers, specifically kids in Japan who are enamoured with its simple style and feel.

For the launch of the 442v3, we headed to a rarely seen part of Tokyo, away from the neon lights of Shibuya towards the city’s outskirts and the sprawling football pitches beyond the skyscrapers.

The film follows one of New Balance’s young ‘bukatsu’ players making his way through the Katsushika City district with a ball at his feet, a teenager lost in the art of practice. The result is a local scene with a global sentiment – kids just want to play. Soundtracked by Baba Stiltz.

Creative Direction: UNK Studio

Director: Jacob Chabeaux

DOP / Cinematographer: Hans Bobànovits

Stylist: Charlotte Roberts

Executive Producer: Lauren Ford for UNK

StudioService Production: Twin Brains

Photographer: Kizen Zhao

Art Department: Isamu Sasagawa

Editor: Fin Melluish @ Avenues

Retouch: Aly Studio 

Soundtrack: Baba Stiltz

Sound Design: James Rand