The Arctic Dilemma: Polar Bears, Fashion, and Whiskey

Exploring the impact of climate change on polar bears, the release of AURALEE's New Balance WRPD Runner, and the return of Bulleit Frontier Whiskey 12-Year-Old Rye.
The Arctic Dilemma: Polar Bears, Fashion, and Whiskey

The Impact of Climate Change on Polar Bears

Polar bears, iconic symbols of the Arctic, are facing a dire future due to climate change. As sea ice continues to melt at an alarming rate, these magnificent creatures are struggling to find food and are being forced to swim longer distances to find new hunting grounds.

According to a study published in the journal “Nature Climate Change”, polar bears are losing up to 40% of their body mass due to the lack of sea ice. This is leading to a decline in their population, with some estimates suggesting that two-thirds of the world’s polar bear population could be gone by the end of the century.

The melting of sea ice is not the only threat to polar bears. Oil and gas drilling in the Arctic, as well as pollution from shipping, are also major concerns. These activities not only threaten the polar bears’ habitat but also put them at risk of direct harm.

Despite these challenges, there is hope. Governments and organizations are working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect polar bear habitats. For example, the United States and Russia have agreed to work together to protect the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to a large population of polar bears.

It is important that we take action to address climate change and protect polar bears and other Arctic species. Their survival is not only important for the health of the Arctic ecosystem but also for the future of our planet.


AURALEE’s New Balance WRPD Runner Releases Next Week

Spotted first during the Japanese label’s Spring/Summer 2024 runway show at Paris Fashion Week last year, the kicks are finally set to drop in two colorways.

New Balance WRPD Runner

The WRPD Runner features a premium material composition of nubuck, suede, and mesh at the upper, while its signature sculpted sole unit returns with FuelCell-backed cushioning. Both colorways leverage monochromatic looks, emphasizing the sneaker’s sleek build.

Colorways and Release Date

Release for AURALEE’s collaborative New Balance WRPD Runner in both “Dark Navy” and “Light Green Beige” is set to take place on April 18 via AURALEE, New Balance, and select retailers worldwide. International pricing has not been disclosed; however, each pair will run you ¥26,400 JPY (approx. $172 USD) in Japan.


Bulleit Frontier Whiskey 12-Year-Old Rye returns after five years

First released in 2019, Bulleit has brought back the award-winning expression as the Rye whiskey category continues to grow. Bulleit Rye 12-Year-Old is a limited-availability extension of Bulleit Rye Whiskey, America’s #1 selling rye whiskey. The 12-Year-Old uses the same mash bill as the flagship Rye: 95% rye and 5% malted barley- one of the highest rye percentages on the market. Aged and matured to perfection in new charred American white oak barrels for a minimum of 12 years, this 2024 release incorporates whiskey from barrels aged up to 17 years in the blend. The result is a smooth, aged taste as before, but with nuanced differences from the 2019 release. On the nose, we get light, fruity, woody-oaky, floral, and vanilla-spice notes. Bottled at 92 proof (46% ABV), on the palate, it is semi-sweet, clean, and crisp. The finish is enjoyable with a slight-woody vanilla spice taste.


For more information, visit AURALEE, Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Nature Climate Change, and New Balance.