Shohei Ohtani Continues to Be Michael Jordan of Baseball After New Balance Unveils His First Signature Cleat: Ohtani 1

Defying all odds and becoming a superstar in MLB, Shohei Ohtani still had a tough time finding a good sponsorship deal. Many deals were proposed to him, but not many companies could satisfy them due to his specific requirements. But this time, finally, he discovered his perfect match. Being the first player in MLB to hit and pitch at the highest levels, the Dodgers superstar had specific demands for his gear and cleats. With no hesitation, the New Balance team fulfilled all of them and got an opportunity to work with one of the best, ‘Shotime Ohtani.’

It all started early in 2023 when New Balance and Ohtani came together, a news that shook the entire MLB fraternity. Often compared with Michael Jordan, the launch of special cleats by his name was highly anticipated. Well, the time has finally come when the Los Angeles star is about to unveil his first customized Cleat collection, the ‘Ohtani 1’. Giving a complete glimpse of the shoes and a retort to,’ From where can I buy these shoes?’, we have all the answers for you. 

A detailed look at the marvelous ‘Ohtani 1’ shoe

For MLB fans wondering if the shoe is just an ordinary piece? It’s a special one from Ohtani, the perfectionist. Working closely with the New Balance team, Shohei Ohtani ensured that the shoe offered comfort and had an immaculate yet simple design. Ohtani has been a master craftsman whenever he played in MLB. A similar methodology he reflected in his shoes to replicate the movement and comfort needed while pitching and batting, especially for athletes who need perfection. 

The shoe will come with Ohtani’s Logo in sketch form for die-hard Ohtani fans. It symbolizes Ohtani running for the first base, as his love for baseball has come chiefly from his running ability. Additionally, the ‘Ohtani 1’ logo represents his true athleticism and unique hitting and pitching capabilities on the field. Sharing his thoughts on the shoes and cherishing his moments with New Balance, Ohtani said, “I have a deep respect for the heritage of baseball and the sport itself, and I love that the collection pays tribute to the traditional old-school style while bringing a new-school twist. Every item can fit an athlete’s wardrobe on and off the field, and collaborating with New Balance to capture that perfect balance was such an exciting moment for me.”

According to New Balance, the shoe is specifically crafted to be closer to the ground. It features a mid-cut upper, and the special triangle patterns at the forefoot are genuinely inspired by the ceilings present at ballparks in Japan. Also, each piece designed in the shoe draws some kind of inspiration. For example, the neutral tones combined with the Marsh Green would remind of the infield dirt and pitcher’s mound. What’s more? For sheer comfort, the midsole accompanies Fuelcell-cushioning along with a turf outsole. 

Shohei Ohtani to Daunt the New Cleats at two Events & Official Launch Date

The long-term hardship of Ohtani and the New Balance will finally pay off. In a celebrated manner, announcing his signature collection with New Balance, Ohtani will sport his signature shoes in the two-game series against the LA Angels. The match will take place at the Dodgers stadium, where the fans hopefully can see Ohtani’s first-ever personalized shoe launch. 

Not just in the Dodger’s stadium, Ohtani seems to take the launch a step ahead. He will also showcase the ‘Ohtani 1’ shoes at the All-Star Week on July 14. This will be the time when the shoes will go online. Wondering about the official launch? The Shoe will be available for sale online and offline on July 15, 2024. 

The New Balance MLB All-Star Weekend pop-up event is the savior for early birds who can’t wait to get the shoes. Eventually, Fort Worth and Texas shoppers can buy the exclusive pair of ‘Ohtani 1’ shoes 24 hours before the initial retail launch. Eventually, the fans who follow Shohei Ohtani from scratch will know what he has done in his stellar 7-year career. For the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024, his record is immaculate.

Having an average of .318 with 21 home runs, 1.006 OPS, and 53 RBIs is a marvelous achievement for any MLB player. Recently, with the injury of Mookie Betts, he promoted himself as the lead-off hitter and is playing his role exceptionally well. In the end, for a player of Shohei Ohtani’s caliber and counting his endless achievements, the New Balance deal and a customized shoe with his signature move was the need of the hour.