The New Balance 2002r was birthed as a reimagined version of the 2002 iteration launched in 2010. While the predecessor model was almost forgotten, the 2002r model revived the dad shoe elements with a tab bit of twist.
Speaking of the forerunner, it arrived in a package of mesh, nubuck, and full-length N-ERGY soles borrowed from the 1906 trainer. The updated version was a $250 “Made in the USA” and sold for $100 more than the Jordans that were released the same year. The New Balance 2002r came in with much sass and flexed a whopping price tag of $250.
Along with the many reasons, the 2002r runner gained immense popularity with much credit to the high profile collaboration with Versace designer Salehe Bembury.
Everything about the New Balance 2002r:
The New Balance 2002r was introduced in 2020 with a modernized take and skyrocketing popularity. The former iteration vanished as quickly as it emerged in 2010. The runners were foreseen as over-budgeted and undervalued by sneakerheads. However, they made a comeback in 2020 with a new-fangled framework.
Distinct features of the New Balance 2002r:
The New Balance 2002r is one of the first retro-revivals of the brand with a tinge of avant-garde features. NB aficionados have been quite elated with their design, comfort, and performance. The classic runner impressed sneakerheads with its functional and classy look. It is crafted with mesh and suede and is a treat to the eye. While mesh takes charge of the comfort, suede contributes to the style significantly.
Every sneaker from the New Balance realm is undoubtedly durable, breathable, and airy. The New Balance 2002r shoe is fitted with ABZORB technology to provide enhanced cushioning. It doesn’t stop here, the wearer is in for a springy effect with every stride. The shoe’s lateral side encompasses the N-energy technology that works as a shock absorber.
Difference between the New Balance 2002r and 2002:
The OG 2002 iteration sported a full N-energy sole, showcasing a high-end construction. It gracefully incorporated an elastic gel without air bubbles which eventually become its staple technology. It gave the feet the flexibility to flex and return to the OG shape than a standard foam cushion. The New Balance 2002r was well differentiated on this front with only the support of the N-Energy sole at the heel of the shoe.
Salehe Bembury X New Balance 2002
Top colorways of the New Balance 2002r:
The OG NB 2002 was billed as a luxury running shoe. A sneaker designed for the top-of-the-market. However, in 2002, the shoe was revised to the 2002r with collegiate colorways and a creative side. Let’s run through some of the top New Balance 2002r colorways that made it to the foster with much pride.
- New Balance 2002r Atlas Lemon Haze
- New Balance 2002r low top
- Salehe Bembury X New Balance 2002r
- Salehe Bembury x New Balance 2002r ‘Water Be The Guide’
New Balance 2002r Protection Pack-Dark Navy
The key to the success was in 2021 with the influx of the Protection Pack in three solid colorways – Sea Salt, Phantom, and Rain Cloud, with a deconstructed upper. The runner series sprung as a middle-aged dad favorite and gradually positioned itself as a streetwear staple.
With a string of standalone upgrades, the New Balance 2002r stood indifferent towards a slew of subtle colors variants and delved into some hiking inspiration.