New Balance 1906R White Grey Black

This “White Grey Black” rendition flaunts a clean summer-ready makeover perfect for your everyday rotation.

Retro running sneakers are back in the spotlight, and brands like New Balance do it best when reintroducing archival silhouettes. The NB 1906R showcases a significant design overhaul than its original 2010 variant; this version borrows the midsole tooling of the New Balance 860v2, another retro running shoe from the early 2010s. This colourway equips the modern-day retro runner with a clean white and grey mesh base with synthetic leather reinforcements. Dark shades cover the rigid heel counter and ABZORB midsole for a contrasting approach. Bronze accents highlight the “N” logos on the sides and the SBS midsole pillars on the heel. Hints of blue adorn the forefoot midsole, shank plate, and Stability Web outsole.

The 2002 debuted in 2010 and was considered one of New Balance’s most luxurious running sneakers. It featured a full-length gel midsole tooling, and funnily enough, the New Balance 1906 did too. Why? That is because the 1906 was the original pair that influenced the 2002 model.

From heel to toe, the shape of the New Balance 1906 and its breathable mesh base continued over to the New Balance 2002.

With “R” added to its title to represent its modern-day appearance, there are a few modifications made. You’ll notice that New Balance 1906R now only has the ABZORB gel cushioning unit beneath the heel and not at full-length — just like the 2002R. The design is then complete with New Balance’s N-ergy and Stability Web technologies.

In fact, this midsole is taken from the New Balance 860V2, which entered the market the year after the 2002. Of course, expect the 1906R to come with the same lightweight experience and comfortable cushioning underfoot.

Are New Balance shoes high quality?

A top choice for fitness walkers, New Balance shoes are known for their plush comfort and quality construction. The brand also offers sneakers in a wide range of styles that provide extra support for different types of wearers, like those with flat feet or fallen arches.

Why is New Balance so comfortable?

Walking shoes should provide comfort and support while minimizing foot pain and issues like plantar fasciitis. New Balance’s walking shoes generally have thick, cushioned midsoles that absorb impact, as well as well-designed footbeds that provide arch support (although some of their models are more minimal).