New Balance 1890 runners

1890 trainers

New Balance has been developing supportive running shoes and sporty, comfort-focused lifestyle silhouettes for decades. In 2026, the brand celebrated both of these facets by bringing together elements of two archival models into the forward-thinking, highly wearable and uniquely stylish New Balance 1890.

The upper of the New Balance 1890 features a lightweight base layer of breathable mesh with a no-sew synthetic frame over the top for flexible durability. A leather panel bolsters the heel, with soft padding delivering comfort around the collar. Punched eyelets combine with two central lace loops to secure the foot and hold the cushy, breathable tongue in place, while reflective elements add a touch of practicality by helping to illuminate the wearer in low-light conditions.

The 1890’s midsole harnesses the shock-absorbing compression resistance and long-lasting comfort of ABZORB cushioning, with ABZORB SBS elements extending into the heel for even greater stability and a soft yet well-supported feel. These spongy, segmented elements work with the outsole grooves to increase flexibility as the lined tread patterns of its rubber pads offer reliable grip. A large cutout runs through the centre of the outsole, thus dropping weight, and the midfoot is supported by a Stability Web shank, which controls torsional rigidity and improves stability.

The inspirations behind the 1890 are 2010’s New Balance 2002 and 2013’s 890v3 running shoe, which was known for its lightweight performance design and fashion-forward look. While the former informs the shoe’s supportive sole unit, the latter influences the wavy teardrop shapes of its distinctive upper, thus delivering a unique aesthetic. Droplet-like nodes punctuate the forefoot overlays alongside the classic N-logos on each flank, with square NB badges adding familiar accents to the tongue and heel. Even the sole contributes to the shoe’s expressive character, combining with the synthetic elements to give the silhouette a techy edge.

The New Balance 1890 launched at the beginning of 2026 in a striking collaboration with rapper Action Bronson. A bold continuation of their prolific partnership, it consisted of the colourful ‘Cyborg Tears’ and ‘Hornet Tusk’ editions, with the much rarer ‘Planet Frog’ released in May to coincide with the multi-hyphenate rapper’s new album of the same name. The first general release colourways came in the early spring, before other long-term New Balance collaborators used the futuristic silhouette as a storytelling canvas. In April, Joe Freshgoods introduced three vibrant versions inspired by 90s rap videos, and in June, JJJJound and Stone Island each crafted a duo of classy 1890s featuring premium materials and elegant co-branding.

Grounded in history yet incorporating modern technologies and future-forward aesthetics, the New Balance 1890 is a stylish, versatile sneaker built for all-day comfort and support.