New Balance WRPD Runner

WRPD Runner

In the early 2020s, New Balance released many retro sneakers based on Y2K sporting styles, but one design took a different path. Known as the WRPD Runner, this chunky silhouette pushed the boundaries of its running-shoe influences, with a fashion-forward aesthetic that makes it quite distinct from the brand’s other sportstyle footwear.

The minimalist upper of the New Balance WRPD Runner features a stripped-back design of airy, snug-fitting knitted mesh and durable suede overlays applied in smoothly curving lines that flow across the outer. Soft padding on the flared tongue and the collar bring a plush feeling around the ankle and instep, while large N logos have been stylishly embroidered into the sidewall mesh and stitched lines move delicately through the overlays for a finely crafted finish.

In contrast to the WRPD Runner’s understated upper, its sole unit is big, chunky and bold. Its dual-density foam midsole is particularly eye-catching and incorporates the brand’s high-tech FuelCell foam along its entire length. This squishy cushioning has been taken from performance running shoes and reformulated to generate enough firmness to provide all-day casual comfort. It also retains the responsive bounce of its sporting counterpart, making the midsole powerfully propulsive. The medial side is supported by a stability post, which ensures the wearer gets a solid footing, and the rubber outsole is lined with an eye-catching wavy tread pattern that produces excellent grip.

The New Balance WRPD Runner is an aesthetically original sneaker with a compelling contrast between its minimalist upper and maximalist sole. Aside from the giant N logos adorning its flanks, the outer is conspicuously free from branding effects, giving it a sleek look. Its organically fluid design lines are inspired by abstract forms and create a silhouette that is at once retro and futuristic, especially when paired with the smooth contours of the bold midsole stack. Underfoot, the outsole delivers its own compelling effect that nods to the shoe’s ‘warped’ theme, as its topographical grip lines ripple dynamically from heel to toe.

Unveiled by elegant Japanese label AURALEE during the 2023 Paris Fashion Week, the WRPD Runner was released in the autumn of that year. With its inventive blend of stylishly distorted design details and running-inspired nostalgia, the shoe was an instant success, but fans had to wait until 2024 for a full release of the collaborative AURALEE two-pack, which consists of contrasting monochrome colourways in stealthy navy and suave tan tones. Later that year, Danish ready-to-wear brand Ganni put its own creative stamp on the New Balance WRPD Runner, designing a shiny metallic silver colourway featuring luxurious pink accents that elevate the silhouette and bring it high-fashion appeal.

Built upon a substantial and futuristic sole unit with a uniquely standout look and cutting-edge foam, the New Balance WRPD Runner takes style innovation to bold new levels and yet doesn’t neglect comfort or support. Alongside its refined, minimalist upper, with its sleek, gentle curves and exaggerated logos, this makes it an unforgettable sneaker which hints at the future of footwear design.