Sneaker News 2020 will certainly be one to remember for New Balance. Often the butt of “dad” shoe jokes long before the trend fully turned, New Balance has never faltered from its position as one of the premier sneaker brands out on the horizon. Off the strength of shop collaborations, rare military-issues, and unmatched quality alone, the NB brand has steadily been on the radar of the culture, but there’s no denying that amount of time it spent under the warm spotlight in 2020 was unlike any other year.
In what seemed like an overnight transformation, obscure models from the past that laid dormant for years suddenly grew into the most coveted sneaker on the market. The energy continued to mount as New Balance hit on release after release without flinching as both the eye-catching collab projects and general releases seemed to sell out instantly. And it’s not just a retro movement either; aside from successful reintroductions of archival silhouettes, the brand introduced some of the year’s most interesting new models.
Even for those who have been messing with New Balance from the get-go, this amount of excitement around the brand is unprecedented. And for those who are only now being introduced to what NB has to offer, there’s still opportunity to fill out your rotation with some of the best that New Balance has to offer. We had a little fun with this, re-creating a classic 990 ad for these must-haves, so here’s a quick rundown of five New Balance sneakers that you should familiarize yourself with moving forward – all of which you can purchase right now.
You can also shop the full assortment of New Balance for men, women, and kids. Take advantage of additional 25% off sale items here through December 20th.
2020, despite outside factors, was a pretty great year for New Balance. Alongside some admirable relief efforts, the brand reissued their once forgotten 992, a silhouette that is currently up to bat with this year’s finest. And, from its very first release, the model has not slowed one bit, with collaborative works by JJJJound and WTAPS making it all the more enticing. Though sold out near as fast as they’re offered — meaning minutes if not seconds — there are a few available colorways up for grabs right now (and the longer you wait, the faster they’ll disappear).
Where to Buy The New Balance 992
If you often find yourself singing the 992’s praises, then you should save some high notes for the similarly beloved 993. In terms of color variety and design, the two silhouettes aren’t too dissimilar, both achieving the iconic New Balance look through slightly different means. And while the recently revived classic is quite difficult to get a hold of, the 993, by comparison, is far more accessible with many a classic colorway available right now.
Where to Buy The New Balance 993
There’s a saying that goes: “There’s nothing new under the sun.” And when you’re New Balance, you’re partially to blame. Inspired by the brand’s innovative running sneakers of the 1970s, the New Balance 327 became an instant-hit among casual and savvy consumers alike for its vintage sensibility and versatility. Touted as “[t]he ultimate leisure shoe,” the lightweight, modern-throwback has kept busy since launching in April, boasting premium collaborations with Casablanca; celebrating Pride Month; and championing the Boston-based brand’s sustainability efforts. Although most of its releases have quickly sold out, select pairs are available now–but act fast.
Where to Buy The New Balance 327
Inspired by running shoes from the start of the 21st century, the New Balance 2002R quickly reminded the competition about who’s boss in the lingering “dad shoe” trend. Updated with new ABZORB midsole cushioning, and offered in a handful of tonal colors, New Balance’s chunky proposition has become a favorite among style influencers. All-day comfort, shock-absorption and arch support will surely make these a hit with ahead-of-their-time parents everywhere, too. Shop all available styles right now.
Where to Buy The New Balance 2002R
In New Balance history, no line is quite as significant nor as universal as the 990. Updated multiple times, the model gradually became one of the most prolific dad shoes bar none, and its latest variation, the 990v5, is no less iconic. Aside from its collaborations with Aime Leon Dore and Haven, the silhouette can be had year-round, all the classic color options available right now.
Where to Buy The New Balance 990v5
