2002R
The New Balance 2002R is a retro runner from New Balance with roots in a luxury running shoe from 2010. Since its return in 2020 it has become a staple of the dad shoe category, thanks to its mix of suede and mesh, soft sole and calm grey tones. The 2002R is widely worn by women and men looking for a comfortable everyday sneaker.
The history of the New Balance 2002R
The original New Balance 2002 came out in 2010 as a premium running shoe, with high-end materials and a matching price tag. After a few years it disappeared again. In 2020, ten years after the first release, New Balance brought the model back under the name 2002R, now intended as a lifestyle sneaker.
The real breakthrough followed soon after with the Protection Pack: versions with frayed suede edges and a deliberately unfinished look. Collaborations with Salehe Bembury and JJJJound, among others, made sure the 2002R was taken seriously in the fashion world too.
Design and technology
The upper combines suede, nubuck and mesh in several layers. The sole comes from the New Balance 860v2, with ABZORB cushioning in the midsole and N-ergy in the heel for shock absorption. Together they give the 2002R a soft, springy feel that you will still appreciate after a long day.
Popular 2002R colorways
From the Protection Pack, the ‘Rain Cloud’ in light grey, the ‘Phantom’ in dark grey and black and the ‘Sea Salt’ in off-white are the most frequent choices. If you would rather skip the frayed edges, look at the ‘Cream’: a calm cream version with conventionally finished suede.
What is the difference between the 2002R and the 9060?
The 2002R is a relatively understated retro runner with a classic, somewhat lower sole. The New Balance 9060 is newer, has a much bigger, wavy sole and a bolder Y2K look. If you want a timeless sneaker in the spirit of the 990v4, the 2002R is the better fit; if you want to stand out, the 9060 is the more obvious choice.
How does the New Balance 2002R fit?
The New Balance 2002R fits true to size for most wearers, so you can stick with your usual New Balance size. If you have wide feet, half a size up may feel more comfortable. With narrow feet, stay with your own size and lace the shoe a little tighter.
Buy the New Balance 2002R at WOOVIN
On WOOVIN you will find the 2002R in the well-known Protection Pack colours, in calm core versions and in collaborations, for women and men. Torn between a Protection Pack pair and a regular version? Decide whether you want the frayed look or a cleaner finish. Choose your size and see which grey and cream tones are available.
