thisisneverthat and New Balance Take a Victory Lap with the 2002R

Korean label thisisneverthat can lay claim to an early belief in New Balance's now-ubiquitous 2002R. When the onetime $250 running shoe was reissued as an altered, lower-priced lifestyle model back in 2020, thisisneverthat was one of its first two collaborative partners alongside Salehe Bembury. Now, two years later, thisisneverthat is taking a 2002R victory lap with a second co-created style.

Dressed in a timeless grey colour scheme with hits of navy that's not too different from the atmos x New Balance 2002R, this style's key features are provided by its medley of materials. Shaggy suede, smooth nubuck and premium tumbled leather can all be seen, but the most notable element is the cracked leather on the collar and tongue. Special branding is largely kept to a minimum as well, as it's relegated to the insoles.

An official inspiration has yet to be announced, but it could have something to do with the shoe's 'age' – thisisneverthat and New Balance are dropping a 1906 colab with weathered detailing on the same day.

Expect the thisisneverthat x New Balance 2002R to release on August 19. It'll be priced at $180.

Lookin' for more 2002R news? Check out the popular silhouette's five most influential colourways by clicking right here.