New Balance 2002R

2 products

The New Balance 2002R is the 2020 reissue of a premium runner from 2010: mesh and suede on the upper, an ABZORB midsole and N-ergy in the outsole, now designed for everyday wear.

The pairs we have are from the Protection Pack, the 2021 series with layered suede and cut-outs that reveal the mesh, in Rain Cloud and Phantom. The name does not mean they are waterproof: protect them with a spray before rainy days.

2 products

The New Balance 2002R is the reissue the brand launched in 2020 to mark ten years of the 2002, a premium runner from 2010 that cost 250 dollars at the time. It keeps the technical spirit of the original, with lots of mesh and suede on the upper, but the sole was designed from the start for everyday wear rather than for setting personal bests.

The 2002R Protection Pack

The two versions we have online are from the Protection Pack, the series released in August 2021 with a deconstructed feel: the suede is layered, with cut-outs that reveal the mesh underneath, and the result looks like a trainer with years of wear even though it is brand new. The 2002R Protection Pack Rain Cloud combines light greys with bluish hints and is the easiest to wear. The Phantom comes in a much darker grey, for anyone who prefers something that does not show the dirt. Despite the name, the pack was not presented as waterproof; what defines it is the finish.

New Balance 2002R cushioning and sizing

The midsole is ABZORB and the outsole uses N-ergy, two New Balance running technologies designed to absorb impact. Underfoot it feels firm but cushioned, closer to a 2000s running shoe than to a flat leather trainer. The collar is heavily padded, which makes the NB 2002R feel snug: if you have wide feet, consider going half a size up and check the guide on each product.

Suede benefits from a protective spray from day one, like those from Crep Protect. If you want to compare with other models from the brand, in New Balance you will also find the 530 and the 740, and in New Balance 1906 the brand's other big runner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the New Balance 2002R Protection Pack waterproof?

We have not found any New Balance information presenting it as waterproof: the name of the pack and of colourways like Rain Cloud relate to the design, not to a membrane. Treat them like any suede trainer and apply a protective spray before wearing them in the rain.

What is the difference between the 2002R Rain Cloud and the Phantom?

They are the same Protection Pack trainer, with layered suede and exposed mesh. The Rain Cloud comes in light greys with bluish hints and the Phantom in a much darker grey, which is more forgiving for everyday wear.

How do New Balance 2002Rs fit?

Opinions vary: some retailers recommend your usual size and others half a size up, because the padding around the collar and sides makes them feel snug. If you have wide feet or are between two sizes, go half a size up. Also check the size guide on each product.

What cushioning does the New Balance 2002R have?

An ABZORB midsole and N-ergy in the outsole, inherited from the 2010 running 2002. Underfoot it feels firm but cushioned and holds up well for a full day of walking, although today it is worn as an everyday trainer, not for training.

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