New Balance 2002 and 2002R Sneakers
The revival of New Balance 2002R almost never happened. Initially considered too expensive and not appreciated by the masses, the high-end running shoe left as quickly as it arrived in the 2010s. However, it made a comeback in 2020 with a new look and a more accessible price, in order to compete with Nike, adidas, and other big names in streetwear. We have prepared a selection of the best pairs of sneakers New Balance 2002 that are currently trending. Whether you are looking for a pair for men, women, or children, our selection meets all needs. We direct you to specialized sites like New Balance or Wethenew to find your ideal pair, often accompanied by benefits and a free shipping offer.
The History of the New Balance 2002
The 2002 model arrived in 2010, logically as the successor to the 2001 model. Technically impressive, the latter was however considered quite unattractive compared to other sneakers. The New Balance 2002 solves this problem, without compromising between the two: the 2002/1906 midsole is combined with an ultra-efficient suspension system. The problem is that this technology comes at a cost, even though it was not the first time New Balance was criticized for the price of their shoes. Nearly 30 years after selling running shoes for just $100, the New Balance 2002 is sold at an exorbitant price of $250. The average consumer, who did not necessarily appreciate the additional quality level that justified its high price, turned away from this sneaker. Because of this fiasco, the 2002 almost disappeared forever from the catalog of New Balance sneakers.
The Emergence of the New Balance 2002R
The "Dad Shoe" movement of the late 2010s emerged and highlighted the historically thick designs of New Brunswick. This trend is marked by sneakers with massive soles from the 90s that your dad must love. Fueled by the potential of their archive styles and in an effort to transform the heavy and vintage side of their sneakers into a serious movement, New Balance relaunched the 2002 by adding an R suffix: the New Balance 2002R was born at a more affordable retail price of $130. This price drop was notably made possible by shifting production to the Far East, in order to offer better value for money. And thanks to the creative director of NB Japan, Tetsuya Shono, the 2002R is reborn with the midsole of the 860v2. The model retains NERGY where necessary in the heel, with hybrid technology that refines the silhouette: the exposed forefoot of the original model is replaced or enclosed in ABZORB foam, the shoe's upper remains largely unchanged, and there are luxurious overlays in nubuck and leather on a soft and durable mesh.
How to Choose Your New Balance 2002R Model?
Choosing the right pair of New Balance 2002R is not just a matter of style, it's also about comfort and functionality suited to the intended use. To start, measure the width and size of your foot correctly to ensure a perfect fit. Men and women will find specific models that meet their needs in terms of design and support. The technical details of each sneaker, such as midsole technology, materials used for the upper, and type of closure, offer distinct advantages for different types of activities. Whether for everyday use or for more intense running sessions, each product in the New Balance collection is designed to maximize your comfort and performance. Don't forget to read reviews from other users to better understand the specific advantages and potential limitations of each model. Finally, take advantage of sales or special offers available in-store or online to make a smart and economical purchase. Whether you buy online with direct home delivery or prefer to try your sneakers in a physical store, New Balance offers a flexible shopping experience to ensure a hassle-free purchase.
New Balance 2002R: Quality Collaborations
Dubbed the "Rolls Royce of running shoes" upon its original release in 2010, the 2002 remains representative of NB's craftsmanship. It was historically made in the United States and considered an incredible innovation for its time. One cannot deny New Balance's veteran status in the collaboration game, with an impressive range of partnerships: Joe Freshgoods, Levi's, and Stone Island. While the 2002R model was launched in 2020 with a number of high-profile collaborations, it is worth noting that the New Balance 2002R has been seen on the feet of Versace's footwear vice president, Salehe Bembury, in a blurred orange collaboration with New Balance. Like the New Balance 550 model, the return of the model in NB's main offerings suggests that other collaborative partners will paint on the unique and timeless canvas that the 2002R offers. Keep an eye out for product-related news!
What Future for the New Balance 2002R?
The key to its success in 2021 lies in the different versions and colors developed so that every man, woman, or child can find the shoe that suits them. Indeed, some solid colors have become quite iconic of the model, such as the "Protection Pack" (initially named "Refined Future"). New Balance has also modernized the design by discreetly abandoning the original colorway of the NB 2002 from 2010. The New Balance 2002R comes in more than a dozen colors, and new palettes are expected to be released. As long as the brand continues on this path, respecting the model while infusing it with a constant breath of fresh air, the 2002R should remain at the forefront of the sneaker scene for a long time.
How to Stay Updated on Upcoming New Balance 2002R Releases?
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