1906R
The New Balance 1906R is a retro running shoe with plenty of mesh, metallic overlays and a technical-looking sole. It is based on a 2009 performance model and returned in 2022 as a lifestyle sneaker. Thanks to that sporty Y2K look, the 1906R is often mentioned in the same breath as the brand’s other retro runners.
The history of the New Balance 1906R
The first 1906 hit the market in 2009 as a genuine running shoe, focused on cushioning and stability. Its number refers to the year the brand was founded. After a few seasons that original disappeared from stores again.
In 2022 New Balance brought the model back under the name 1906R. The upper stayed close to the 2009 design, but the sole was taken from the 860v2, a running shoe from the same era. That combination proved a hit and made the 1906R the starting point for a whole series of spin-off variants.
Design and technology
The upper combines breathable mesh with overlays of synthetic leather or nubuck, often with silver accents. Flexible straps run along the side to hold the laces and keep the midfoot in place; New Balance calls this N-Lock.
The sole holds technology from the brand’s running shoes of around 2010: ABZORB elements in the heel, N-ergy for shock absorption and a Stability Web under the arch. From the side you can see the open, layered construction that gives the 1906R its recognisable profile.
Popular New Balance 1906R colorways
Metallic shades and cool colours dominate. These are currently the most popular 1906R pairs on WOOVIN:
- 1906R ‘Metallic Blue’: blue with light grey and black accents.
- 1906R ‘Silver Classic Crimson’: metallic silver with dark red details.
- 1906R ‘White Gold’: white with black and gold-coloured accents.
- 1906R ‘Silver Metallic Deep Ocean’: silver with deep navy.
- 1906R ‘Licorice’: a dark version in black and shades of grey.
1906R or another 1906 variant?
If you are after the classic laced runner with silver overlays, the 1906R is the model you want. Variants with a different letter, such as the layered 1906A or the 1906L loafer, are listed under the New Balance 1906. Compared with the 2002R, the 1906R looks sportier and more technical; the 2002R is more about suede and a calmer use of colour.
How does the New Balance 1906R fit?
The New Balance 1906R fits true to size, so you can choose your usual New Balance size. The forefoot offers a fair amount of room, while the N-Lock straps wrap the midfoot securely. With wide feet you can go half a size up if in doubt. With narrow feet, stick to your own size and lace up a little tighter.
Buying the New Balance 1906R at WOOVIN
At WOOVIN you will find the 1906R in dozens of colours, from metallic silver and blue to black and patent leather versions. Choose a silver pair for the typical Y2K look and a dark version if you want to wear it more discreetly. If you prefer a heavier, chunky sole, take a look at the New Balance 9060 as well.
