New Balance has a long history of collaborations with some of the biggest names in the fashion and streetwear world. This includes the New Balance 2002R, a sneaker that has quickly become a favourite among collectors and enthusiasts for its sleek and stylish design. In this blog, we take a closer look at some of the most popular New Balance 2002R collaborations and why they are so beloved by sneakerheads and fashion lovers around the world.
New Balance 2002R GANNI
First up, we have the New Balance 200R in collaboration with Danish fashion house GANNI. The two colorways pay homage to GANNI's signature blend of styles and are designed to strike the perfect balance between elegance and functionality. Both pairs feature striking stitching and a green outsole with GANNI branding printed on the base.
New Balance 2002R Bryant Giles
Bryant Giles, a Los Angeles-based artist, has unleashed his creativity on the 2002R. This green colorway is part of a two-part collection, the base serves as olive green canvas topped with Giles' original art in black, yellow, green and pink stitching. Another detail is the 'N' logo along the side, which can be removed by Velcro. Giles calls these shoes his 'Artist's Shoe' and lastly, they have a step-in construction inspired by his long hours in the studio.
New Balance 2002R BAPE
Like the previous pair, this New Balance 2002R BAPE 'Grey' is also part of a two-piece collection. The upper of this pair features BAPE's iconic ABC camouflage pattern, in 'Snow Grey Camo'. Of course, the sneaker also includes the signature reflective 3M shark fins on the heel and the shooting star logo. A true BAPE makeover.
New Balance 2002R Joe Freshgoods 'Conversations Amongst Us'
From making shirts with a desktop printer to designing his own collaboration with New Balance, Joe Freshgoods has come a long way. This design tells Joe's story and highlights important conversations that empower the black community and creatives. The shoe has a base of woven mesh with accents of suede, rendered in neutral tones such as beige, brown, white and black.
'I wanted to tell a story of the black experience, emphasizing crucial dialogues that connect the community while inspiring the next generation of black creatives.'
Joe
Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 2002R - Conversations Amongst Us
New Balance 2002R J. Crew
In 2021, J. Crew, in collaboration with New Balance, released six new colorways for the 2002R. The colorways ran very much out of one, from bright yellow to black, below you can check out the two that are still on sale at New Balance. The two sneakers come in a combination of mesh and suede and both have a unique composition of colours.
New Balance 2002R Salehe Bembury
'Water Be The Guide', was designed by Bembury and inspired by his trip to Havasu Falls in Arizona. Intended to represent the contrast of the warm and cold colours of Havasu Falls, the design features a deep teal colour. Perhaps you are also familiar with the New Balance 2002R Salehe Bembury 'Peace Be The Journey'? This was an all-orange version by the designer.
Salehe Bembury x New Balance 2002R 'Water Be The Guide'
New Balance 2002R The Basement
A very popular collaboration is the New Balance 2002R x The Basement, the 'Earth Brown' was sold out even after just a few seconds. The 'Moss Green' is the collab's second colorway. The sneakers are made of waterproof heavy suede and textured rubber, with black toe caps, heel guards and a rigid sole made of 3M panels.
New Balance New Balance x The Basement 2002R Earth Brown
New Balance 2002R thisisneverthat
thisisneverthat has built a reputation for its simple and stylish streetwear. Back in 2020, the brand helped re-launch the 2002R model; in 2022, it released the 'Refined Future' collection, which included this design of the 2002R. The sneaker is made of breathable mesh, high-quality suede and leather in different shades of grey. In addition, the pair has a refined and clean look with an 'aged' finish.
New Balance 2002R Up There
Up There is a fashion and sneaker boutique, and has collaborated with New Balance for the 2002R 'Backyard Legends'. The pair is designed for athletes who love cricket, barbecue and an ice-cold beer. The upper features a base layer of chunky white mesh, with underlays of suede in dark magenta and suede overlays in two shades of green.
From The Basement to Up There, as you have seen, many brands have put their own unique spin on the New Balance 2002R and left their mark on this timeless sneaker. With striking colours, eye-catching patterns and high-quality materials, these collaborations have transformed the New Balance 2002R into a must-have item for sneaker lovers around the world.
Wondering how to style the 2002R? Then read this article!