New Balance 1906R M1906RA M1906RB

In the year In 2020, New Balance caused the return of 2002. And now, two years later, the brand is giving the 1906 the same treatment, replacing the 2009 shoe’s sole with the 860v2. And alongside the accompanying collaborative offering, the figure will soon be released in several online colorways, the first of which is slated to hit Asia later this August.

Comprised of breathable mesh inserts, synthetic panels and premium nubuck accents, this silhouette celebrates the iconic look of the 2000s runner. This is further enhanced by the silver-based makeup that pays homage to one of the original 1906 colorways. The OG 2002 is also respectable, with its deep gray and navy blue accents translating nicely into the sophisticated upper.

To better commemorate the release of 1906R, New Balance teamed up with renowned stylist and fashion director Akio Hasegawa to create a series of images based on the theme of “Past” and “Future”. The brand also captures Hasegawa in the shoe itself and the inspiration behind the work. You can find the full discussion below.

Both of the aforementioned 1906R models are scheduled for release on August 19 in China and August 12 in the rest of Asia.

North AmericaAugust 12, 2022 (Friday)

North AmericaAugust 12, 2022 (Friday)

What do you think of the new 1906R shoe?

The 1906R is such an amazing looking shoe that stands out in a variety of styles and colors. Once I laced up the shoe and looked at it from the side, I liked that the toe box profile was reminiscent of my favorite model, the 990v5. The original 1906 colorway captures the feel of a classic performance running shoe. With the classic racing trend becoming more and more popular, I feel the 1906R is the perfect silhouette for consumers.

Please describe your creative vision, concept and style for the 1906R photoshoot?

The first 1906 model was released in 2009 and I thought of a concept of how things were at that time. The late 90s and early 2000s were a time when many chased the expectations of the future and longed for the latest technology. The era was a time of technological changes that matched the physical conditions of the environment, such as buildings, and the bricks and materials they were made of. The previous concept was a collection of buildings and surfaces of that era, a tribute to the New Balance brand of constructions established in 1906. Remove all extra elements to allow the shoe itself to become a vital object and grow on people.

How do you feel the 1906R fits the current fashion and style of the consumer today?

In the era of freedom from business clothes and leather shoes, a more modern and comfortable fashion style is spreading around the world. My feeling for the original 1906R color is that it can be paired with more fashionable style glasses, while the gray 1906R can be paired casually with a sportswear style. From this point of view, my thoughts are that the 1906R is a great shoe that fits any style.