New Balance has a slew of retailers they often partner with to launch exclusive colorways, including DTLR in Virginia. These team-ups toe the line between collaboration and exclusive rights for launch, as we've seen with the two's recent 990v3 at DTLR. Now, DTLR is teasing another NB exclusive, and one that takes inspiration from its home state of Virginia on the New Balance 2002R.
In a teaser post, DTLR showcases a blurred-out 2002R with Virginia’s welcome sign in the background reading, “Virginia is for lovers.” Following this, clearer images of the sneaker and inspiration behind its design were shared by the retailer.
Across the white mesh base layer we see black and grey suede overlays take over, all over which comes accented by hits of red, blue, and yellow. Along the midfoot, the "N" logo features a black finish with a split red and blue piping. These accenting shades of red, yellow, and blue come inspired by features in Virginia, including the state flag (blue), highway lines (yellow), and the black-and-red blocking (the state's welcome sign). Rounding out the design is the white and cream foam midsole paired with a black and grey outsole.
The DTLR-exclusive New Balance 2002R Lovers Only will release May 23 exclusively through the DTLR App, while a larger release will take place on May 26 via DTLR in-store and their website. Coming in full-family sizing, the sneaker will retail for $165 (men), $120 (GS), and $100 (TD). Keep it locked to our Twitter and the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
DTLR-exclusive New Balance 2002R Lovers Only
Images via DTLR
