New Balance 2002R Protection Pack (2026)

by thesneakerscroll@gmail.com February 28, 2026

written by thesneakerscroll@gmail.com February 28, 2026

Every so often, a design circles back around without needing much explanation. That’s the case again here, as the New Balance 2002R “Protection Pack” shows up for 2026 looking familiar, just a bit more dialed in.

Nothing about the construction feels forced. Mesh handles the base, while suede layers stack up top, but the edges stay rough and uneven. That slightly frayed look is still the hook, giving the pair a worn feel right away without pushing too far into distressing.

The color options do most of the talking this time. Navy and grey keep things simple and easy to wear. A volt pair shifts the energy a bit, adding brightness without losing balance. Then there’s the brown version, which leans more natural and feels the most grounded of the three.

Underfoot, it’s business as usual. Cream midsoles and visible N-ERGY cushioning stay in place, keeping that early running influence intact while still working for everyday use.

There’s nothing revolutionary going on here. If anything, this is a bit of a sleeper update, demonstrating that New Balance knows how not to meddle with a good thing.