New Balance 2000

2000

During the first half of the 2020s, New Balance released various running-inspired lifestyle silhouettes based on heritage designs from the Y2K era. While many were rereleases or reimaginings, some were new models which took the best of the brand’s past and combined it with up-to-date materials and techniques to create something boldly futuristic. The epitome of this forward-thinking approach is the New Balance 2000.

The 2000 sports a classic mesh and synthetic overlay upper with seamless panels swooping from heel to toe to provide durability while still leaving breathability through the mesh areas. A stitched overlay running up the heel spine protects the Achilles, and soft padding around the tongue and collar enhance comfort. The broad lace loop in the centre of the tongue then combines with the traditional lacing for improved lockdown and a secure fit.

The centrepiece of the New Balance 2000 is its articulated ABZORB sole unit, which was constructed using cutting-edge 3D design tools, allowing its creators to instill it with unprecedented levels of detail. Incorporating the most up-to-date version of the brand’s high-performing midsole material, it supplies the wearer with a comforting blend of supportive ABZORB cushioning and segmented ABZORB SBS pods, delivering lightweight impact protection along the whole length of the shoe. Underfoot, this connects to a curvaceous rubber outsole with substantial grip pods producing comprehensive traction alongside a rigid midfoot Stability Web that helps the wearer find a solid footing.

Merging heritage influences with tech-forward design elements, the New Balance 2000 signifies a bold step towards the future of lifestyle aesthetics. Banded patterns have been printed across its rounded no-sew overlays, creating a strikingly dynamic look, while its asymmetric curves form teardrop-shaped mesh openings that echo the bulging midsole pods underneath. Its progressive sole unit is bold and eye-catching, bringing a whole new meaning to the concept of visible technology and evolving the appearance of 90s ABZORB cushioning. Vintage design elements like the N sidewall logo have also received a modern update, with the familiar brand symbol printed on the lateral flank alone. Subtle NB logos adorn the tongue and heel, and “2000” text has been etched into the tongue loop, completing the sleek minimalism of the 2000’s stylish upper.

New Balance revealed the ABZORB 2000 during Milan Design Week in April 2025, beginning excited discussions around its release. A few weeks later, the brand launched an energising social media campaign based in the Brazilian city of São Paolo and involving local characters like creative director and brand consultant Gustavo Soares. Soares and others are depicted wearing the Still Water release colourway, its distinctive tones finished with a metallic sheen that enhances its fashion-forward appeal.

With its powerfully progressive look and its amplified, comfort-maximising sole unit, the New Balance 2000 is a captivating lifestyle sneaker that perfectly blends retro influences, modern technologies and futuristic design ambitions.