The New Balance universe has expanded into corners we would’ve never expected from the Boston brand, be it the sport-forward retro futurism of the New Balance 2000 or the mashup runway style of the New Balance 1906L. Honestly, perhaps the onus is on us to adjust our expectations and begin anticipating big swings from the heritage running brand.
Regardless of how oracle-like your prediction powers, the New Balance Gator Run is a sparkling new addition all the same, the latest in that aforementioned fashion-forward flank that also extends into shoes like the New Balance 204L here. As its name would indicate, the faux croc exteriors in the upper are the most earnest embrace of cutting-edge dressers, delivered atop simplistic panelling that echoes catalog peers from the 471 to the T500.
Underfoot, it would’ve been understandable to lean on the slim-soled construction rampant in this category, but instead, New Balance continues to literalize the “Gator” aspect with jagged traction; something that replicates throwback track styles, to our eyes. While we can confirm that there are multiple colorways on the way for the Gator Run, New Balance opts for a can’t-miss deep red/black colorway for this first delivery.
CNCPTS will host an exclusive early release of the New Balance Gator Run in “Shadow Red,” releasing via cncpts.com on January 16th. Retail pricing for this edition, and the silhouette as a whole, is set at $130. Information regarding a wide release via NB channels hasn’t been announced just yet.
