What is the New Balance ” 2002RX GORE-TEX “, explaining its differences from the 2002R, waterproofness, sizing, and comfort.

The New Balance “2002RX GORE-TEX” has a subdued design that blends naturally with street wear, even among Gore-Tex equipped sneakers, many of which have outdoor-derived designs. In this issue, we delve into the design differences from the regular “2002R” model, water resistance, steaminess, size, and even comfort.

The base of the “2002RX GORE-TEX” presented here is New Balance’s popular “2002R” series, which was introduced in 2020. This series is based on the upper of the “2002,” a Made in USA line released in 2010, and reconstructed by combining the sole unit of the “M860v2” running model released in 2011. Based on an upper composed mainly of nubuck and mesh, the model was also developed with metallic textured parts, which became popular in the context of the Y2K fashion revival. The “2002R” model retains the appeal of the original “2002,” but by reviewing the production background, it is more affordable than other popular New Balance models, such as the 990s.

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Check out the New Balance ” 2002R ” series!

A waterproof model that blends in with everyday wear

The New Balance “2002RX GORE-TEX” is a waterproof model based on the “2002R” and equipped with Gore-Tex. While most Gore-Tex equipped sneakers are generally outdoors-derived, rugged models, this model features a calm and elegant design. The combination of suede and mesh upper in New Balance’s typical gray tone blends in naturally with a clean outfit, allowing you to coordinate your outfit as usual even on rainy days.

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Click here for details and purchase.

The main differences are the coloring, the logo, and the rough mesh material!

The “2002RX GORE-TEX” is based on the “2002R”, but there are a number of differences when looking at the details. These differences are reflected in the overall impression, with the “2002RX GORE-TEX” having a more subdued look compared to the “ML2002RA,” which is being developed as a reissue model. From here, we will compare the details of the New Balance “2002R” and “2002RX GORE-TEX” to see the differences in design.

Color scheme of upper and laces

The original 2002R model, the “ML2002RA,” features a dark-toned gray color scheme with navy inserts, It has a heavy atmosphere. On the other hand, the “2002RX GORE-TEX” has a more subdued impression, with the entire upper unified in gray. In addition, the laces of the “2002RX GORE-TEX” are white, while those of the “ML2002RA” are gray.

Sole coloring

The sole of “ML2002RA” uses a gray tone close to the upper in the midsole, while silver is inserted throughout and the outsole The outsole is navy. The “2002RX GORE-TEX,” on the other hand, consists of a gray and white midsole and a black outsole.

Coarseness of mesh material

The “ML2002RA” uses a coarse mesh, which gives the material an uneven look. On the other hand, the “2002RX GORE-TEX” uses a finer mesh, which gives the surface a more even and subdued appearance.

Difference between 2002RX GORE-TEX and 2002R 4Heel Logo Design

The “ML2002RA” has a red “NB” logo on a navy background, while the “ML2002RA” has a red “NB” logo on a navy background, The “2002RX GORE-TEX” has a black “GORE-TEX” logo on a gray background.

Waterproofness is good, steaminess is not zero

The New Balance “2002RX GORE-TEX” with Gore-Tex. GORE-TEX is a functional material that has the property of allowing internal vapor to escape while preventing water from entering. Here, we will examine the waterproofness and steaminess of the “2002RX GORE-TEX” based on user reviews on the official New Balance website.

Waterproofness of the New Balance 2002RX GORE-TEXSafe enough for a sneaker for street wear!

This model has perfect waterproofness for a fashion sneaker. Many reviewers said, “My feet don’t get wet,” and “Perfect for rainy days,” which is reassuring enough for a sneaker for street wear. On the other hand, some have pointed out the slipperiness on wet surfaces, so it cannot be said to be all-purpose in all conditions on rainy days.

New Balance 2002RX GORE-TEXLess breathable than the regular model, but basically not a concern!

As for the steaming, while there are some who say they feel it a bit, there are not many cases where it is cited as a strong complaint. The GORE-TEX is not as breathable as regular mesh sneakers, but this is not seen as a major disadvantage.

Sizing and comfort of the New Balance 2002RX GORE-TEXSizing depends on foot shape; many say they are comfortable to wear

The New Balance “2002RX GORE-TEX” is not only waterproof, but also sizing and comfort. The user reviews on the official website show that the shoes are very comfortable. User reviews on the official website show that while many people highly evaluate the comfort of the shoes, there are two groups: those who prefer a true fit and those who recommend going up a size. Here, we will examine the comfort and size based on the reviews.

New Balance 2002RX GORE-TEXThe 2002RX GORE-TEX is designed with a slightly narrower D-width, so choose your size carefully.

Many New Balance lifestyle sneakers are available in a D-width, and the “2002RX GORE-TEX” is one of them. Officially, the men’s/unisex D is positioned as a ” slightly narrow ” foot width. In fact, reviewers were divided on the sizing, with some saying “true to size” would have been fine, while others said “they feel a little small” or “go up a half size and they are just right. If you already own a New Balance lifestyle model, you can easily use that feeling as a reference. Those with a high instep or wide foot should consider going up half a size.

The comfort of the New Balance 2002RX GORE-TEXThe brand's unique technology provides highly rated comfort

The comfort of the shoes is supported by New Balance’s unique sole technology, ABZORB. midsole absorbs shock, and the ABZORB SBS heel cushioning material reinforces cushioning around the heel. In addition, the N-ergy outsole provides high shock absorption, making the shoes comfortable even after long hours of walking. Reviews also show a high level of satisfaction with the comfort of the shoes, with comments such as ” I don’t get tired easily even after walking for a long time,” and “the cushioning is good.

Breaking down your doubts about the New Balance 2002RX GORE-TEX!Q&A about the New Balance 2002RX GORE-TEX

Q1. Can I wear them outside of rainy days?A: I can wear them without problems

The “2002RX GORE-TEX” is a waterproof model, but its appearance is just a lifestyle sneaker derived from the “2002R. Its calm and elegant appearance makes it a pair that is easy to use in everyday life, even on sunny days. In fact, some reviewers said, “I bought them for rain, but I want to wear them on sunny days too,” and “They go with all my outfits.

Q2: How does the comfort compare to the regular 2002R?A: Basically the same, but with Gore-Tex, some people feel stiffness.

The basic design of the sole unit is the same, and the 2002RX GORE-TEX also has an ABZORB midsole, ABZORB SBS heel cushioning, N-ergy outsole, and Stability Web. Therefore, the cushioning and walking comfort are the same as the regular models in the ” 2002R” series. On the other hand, as a common specification of Gore-Tex sneakers, Gore-Tex filament is sandwiched between the outer and inner lining, and some have said that it feels a little stiff.

Q3. Is the weight a concern?A: A little heavier numerically, but not a concern in practical use

The weight of the 2002RX GORE-TEX is slightly heavier at 410 grams compared to 375 grams for the regular 2002R, but many user reviews commented that the weight itself is not a major complaint, as many users commented, “I don’t get tired after a long walk” and “walking is easy.”

Q4. Can it be used outdoors?A: Can handle light outdoor use, but not for serious mountaineering

It can be used, but its range should be determined. The “2002RX GORE-TEX” is a waterproof sneaker that belongs to the lifestyle category and is suitable for city walking, travel, camping, and light outdoor use in rainy weather. On the other hand, it is not designed for serious trail running or rough terrain. If you are going to wear them on mountain trails or slippery dirt roads, you should choose a pair of serious outdoor shoes like these.

Q5. Are Gore-Tex models difficult to maintain?A: Three basic steps: washing, drying, and water repellent care

Maintenance is not particularly difficult, but it does require a slightly different mindset than with regular sneakers. The basic three steps are washing, drying, and water repellent care. Stains should be removed with a brush, cloth, and a small amount of mild detergent, and drying should be done naturally, avoiding direct sunlight and high temperatures. If the surface water repellency has faded, it is effective to supplement DWR with a water-based spray-type water repellent.

Q6: Does New Balance offer any other Gore-Tex sneakers besides the 2002RX GORE-TEX?A: Multiple models are available from the lifestyle model

As of April 2026, there are five lifestyle models available from the official New Balance online: the M2002RXV1, U2002DX, U1906X, CM996XV2 GORE-TEX, and 2002RX.