New Balance’s “1906” series of shoes is a departure from the 900s and 500s. The futuristic upper, based on coarse mesh and multi-layered layering, matches the Y2K mood and has gained popularity since the revival of the “1906R” in 2022. In 2024, the “1906L,” which combines a loafer-style upper with a 1906 sole, will appear. The “1906L” is a perfect match for the more sophisticated look, and is gaining popularity beyond the sneaker category. In this issue, we will introduce the characteristics of the 1906 and the background of its popularity, along with examples of how to wear it!
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Background and features of the New Balance '1906'A futuristic running shoe born in 2009 and revived in 2022
The “1906” is a high-performance running shoe from the 2000s, named after the year in which the New Balance brand was founded. The “1906” was first introduced in 2009, then discontinued, only to be revived in 2022 as the “1906R,” with the upper design retained and the sole reconstructed to current specifications. As of October 2025, the “1906” series includes the “1906A,” “1906N,” and “1906L,” which are modified versions of the “1906R. Details are organized in the Derivative Models chapter.
One of the features of the “1906” is the use of coarse mesh material throughout the upper. This makes the running-style shoe design look more sporty, and it also offers excellent breathability. Another eye-catching design feature is this intricate upper layering design. The multi-layered parts, reminiscent of an urban highway, create a futuristic atmosphere. The sole uses the same technology as the ” 2002R. N-ERGY” and “ABZORB”, which are one of the reasons why the “2002R” is so popular in the fashion scene, are used, and the design has a high-tech feel that gives a sense of high technology. The design has a high-tech feel that gives a sense of high technology. The sole unit makes the shoes feel as if you are walking on clouds.
Why is the New Balance 1906 so popular?
A futuristic upper design that matches the Y2K mood
New Balance is known for the brand’s iconic 900s, the 2020 The “1906” is a high-tech sneaker with a retro mood, such as the brand’s iconic 900s and the “2002R,” which was reissued in 2020. The reason why the quirky “1906” is gaining support among these models is probably due to its futuristic, metallic-part upper design that matches the mood of the Y2K trend. In fact, if you look at street snapshots of people on the street and overseas, you will see many people wearing sneakers that incorporate similar parts, such as the Asics “Gel Kayano 14.
One of the main reasons why “1906” has become so popular in the current fashion scene is the collaboration with various brands. The popular Korean street brand “THIS IS NEVER THAT” announced a collaboration shortly after the “1906” was reissued in August 2022. This collaborative model created a buzz among sneaker fans and sold out in an instant. Starting with this, in May 2023, the brand collaborated with Teddy Santis’ brand “Aime Leon Dore,” who is the creative director of New Balance, and in October with “Auralee” and “Comme des Garçons,” among others. In October, “1906” was adopted one after another and became recognized and supported by many people. In addition, collaboration models with “CAYL,” “Action Bronson,” “The Basement,” “JUNYA WATANABE MAN,” etc. have been released.
New Balance The Snowfer '1906L' that made a big splash matches the loafer boom
In 2024, the unique new model “1906L” was created in collaboration with JUNYA WATANABE MAN. This innovative model is a fusion of loafer and sneaker, combining the upper of a classic leather shoe with the sole of a 1906, and was first shown on the runway of the Fall/Winter 2024 Paris collection, paired with JUNYA WATANABE MAN’s classic suit. Immediately after its debut, the “Snowfer (loafer sneaker)” became the talk of the town, and the collaborative model sold out immediately. The response was so great that the model was made into an in-line model, and the 1906L was officially released in Japan in September 2024. The 1906L model was not only a hit in the sneaker scene, but also in the fashion world, where it was seen as a model that would fit in with the trend for clean fashion, and some people even wore it with suits and set-ups, showing the new potential of the 1906 series.
What is the difference between the derived models?
They all share the “ACTEVA LITE + N-ERGY + ABZORB SBS + Stability Web” combination, which is the sole philosophy of the 2000s series. The major difference is the upper design and design.
This is the standard model based on the reprint design. The coarse mesh is layered with multiple layers of synthetic leather and TPU reinforcements to achieve both a futuristic look and versatility. The “R” at the end of the model number stands for “Rebuild/Reprint” and is the basis for the current 1906 series.
1906D
The “1906D” features a disassembled design, also known as a “protection pack,” with cut lines and furring that look as if they have been spliced together. It has strong shading and is effective when you want to make a difference with a sense of presence. It is suitable for accenting minimalist outfits.
This is a derivative model with utility specifications designed for outdoor use. Overseas, it is also referred to as the ” 1906U.” [title=”1906N” subtitle””] The 1906N is a derivative of the 1906R. The upper design is more complex and tougher than the basic 1906R. Details such as the addition of reflectors and thicker padded cuff have been enhanced.
The 1906A is a relatively new model added in 2024, meaning Alternative, and follows the sole technology of the 1906R, but is lighter and more cushioned. The design is curvaceous and tech-oriented. The design has been updated with a curvilinear, tech-inspired design. The design has been updated with a curvilinear, tech-inspired design to enhance versatility.
For a clean context, the 1906L
As mentioned above, this is a unique model arranged in loafer specifications. The upper is a coin loafer-style design with a cutout at the tongue, and high-quality leather, suede, and mesh are used as materials. Despite the dress shoe look, the shoes combine comfortable cushioning and walkability on par with sneakers.
The following is a styling of the New Balance “1906” series in action!
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