GORE-Tex Drapes This Rugged New Balance 2002R

If you weren’t able to tell by simply stepping outside, brands are heralding the start of cooler weather by reorienting their staple models with new climate-ready touches. In the world of New Balance, the first indication came with a new development: the brand pulling Primaloft onto the 1906R. Hot off the heels of that colorway trio, they’re returning to an older standard, draping the New Balance 2002R in GORE-Tex.

The patented material has been a part of the (ahem) fabric for NB for years at this point, utilized in in-line applications as well as the odd collaboration, as JJJJound tapped the weather-ready build for their latest try at the 2002R. Refreshed for a new season, the shoe at hand starts in really the only natural point, with a goes-with-anything black-out, overtaking the GORE-Tex foundation and its suede upholstery one layer above. The real innovation comes in the contrast coloring here, utilizing trail-inspired hits of highlighter yellow through the heel cup and new pull lacing unit.

Look for this New Balance 2002R as a part of the brand’s seasonal Fall/Winter offerings, more than likely commanding a premium on the base model’s $145 sticker price.

Written by

Matt Varga, Junior Editor

Matt Varga is an Editor at SneakerNews. Initially earning a degree in Video Arts and Technology, he got his start in video editing and writing in the music world — primarily on hip-hop and electronic. A long-standing interest in sneakers led him to switching over to footwear. An avid collector, his favorite sneaker of all time comes down to either the Air Jordan 1 “Black Toe” and Air Jordan 5 “Laney,” his first ever pick-ups. When he’s not writing, you can find Matt cooking, traveling, attending concerts and when weather permits, on the handball court.