Action Bronson turned up to the Caught Stealing red carpet in a pair of unreleased New Balance 992s, and the internet noticed before any press release did. That impromptu debut is now history: the pair released officially on 22 October 2025 under the name “Digitalis Purpurea” (SKU U992AC1) — sneaker media had been calling it…
Action Bronson turned up to the Caught Stealing red carpet in a pair of unreleased New Balance 992s, and the internet noticed before any press release did. That impromptu debut is now history: the pair released officially on 22 October 2025 under the name “Digitalis Purpurea” (SKU U992AC1) — sneaker media had been calling it “Cosmic Rose” during the teaser phase, and the nickname stuck even after New Balance confirmed the official title.
The Design: Pink Suede, Beige Mesh and Teal Details
The exact-edition product description identifies beige mesh, hot-pink suede overlays and a teal nubuck back tab, with ABZORB cushioning at the forefoot and heel. That is more useful than treating every panel as pigskin or claiming ENCAP is exclusive to this collaboration. Our view is that the pink works because the beige base provides contrast; it is a prominent colourway, but the palette has more structure than a single all-pink upper.
The 992’s chunky proportions carry an adventurous colourway better than most silhouettes can, and mesh panels keep the shoe wearable rather than purely a shelf piece.
Release facts
- Official name: New Balance 992 Made in USA “Digitalis Purpurea” (previewed as “Cosmic Rose”)
- SKU: U992AC1
- Release date: 22 October 2025
- Historical US launch price: US$240. A conversion to AED is not a verified UAE retail offer.
- Recorded launch channel: Specializing in Life, described as exclusive in the updated October 2025 release coverage.
The updated October 2025 launch record describes an exclusive release through Bronson’s Specializing in Life site. An earlier expectation of wider New Balance retail should not be treated as a verified allocation. No current official UAE offer is established here; inspect an actual imported or resale listing rather than assume a general stockist has it.
Bronson’s growing 992 résumé
This isn’t Bronson’s first New Balance collaboration. His 990v6 “Baklava” leaned into wild colour combinations, and the 1906R releases pushed technical materials alongside visual boldness. “Digitalis Purpurea” reads as a more restrained, confident step — bold without tipping into costume territory, and proof that his eye for colour has sharpened with each release.
New Balance benefits from the crossover: Bronson’s music gives it street credibility, his food background adds lifestyle authenticity, and his fashion instincts bridge luxury and accessible streetwear in a way few celebrity collaborators manage convincingly.
Should you chase it now?
A current offer needs its own size, condition and delivered-price check. No reliable evidence establishes that every pair appreciated or that Made in USA status guarantees value retention. We would buy for the colour and fit, not an assumed investment return. Compare relevant completed sales if price matters, distinguishing them from unsold asking prices and old launch figures.
Where does the name come from?
Digitalis purpurea is the botanical name for foxglove — a tubular purple-pink wildflower. The colourway takes its cue from the flower’s petals: a beige mesh base, hot pink suede overlays, and a light grey mesh-and-leather tongue that keeps the palette from tipping into full bubblegum territory.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same shoe as the “Cosmic Rose”?
Yes. Cosmic Rose was used in preview coverage for U992AC1; the released edition is known as Digitalis Purpurea.
What makes this 992 different from a standard release?
Its pink, beige and teal treatment and Bronson branding distinguish the edition. Made in USA and cushioning names are not proof that ordinary 992s belong to an inferior overseas construction line.
Can I still buy it in the UAE?
No current official UAE offer is established here. Check an actual imported or resale listing for the exact code, size, condition and purchase protections.
