With the resurgence of New Balance, the Boston-based footwear brand has pumped out plenty of its most popular models, including 550 colorways, 99X models, and the ever-popular 2002R. Speaking of the latter, NB seems to be hopping on the clog/mule trend that has dominated the sneaker industry with a Mule version of the 2002R. While we have gotten a collaborative pair thanks to Bryant Giles, we also have seen two inline pairs release overseas, one in "Tan" and another in "Grey." More inline pairs are on the horizon with images of eight more colorway recently emerging.
As with the previous pairs, the silhouette takes the 2000s-inspired runner and brings it down to mule form, removing the laces and collar portion to allow for a slip-on ride. The eight new colorways seen so far include "Dark Grey," "Burnt Orange," "Brown Corduroy," "Black Corduroy," "Off White," "OG Grey," "Grey Leather," and "Light Pink." Across all of these, sans the two corduroy and one leather pair, a suede and mesh construction is utilized with the typical panels and branding details remaining from the standard 2002R, featuring an N logo on the midfoot on top of the “New Balance” text on the tongues window. Tonal shades dress the various sneakers while the aforementioned branding details and toebox overlays come in accenting shades, adding depth to the design. Underfoot, the sole unit borrows from the 860v2 silhouette and features ABZORB cushioning in the heel and midsole to provide top-tier cushioning and stability.
The New Balance 2002R Mule is set to release in 2022. Releasing in men’s sizing, the retail price is TBA. For updates on the latest from New Balance and more in the sneaker and streetwear scene, keep it locked to our Twitter and the Sole Retriever mobile app.
Images via New Balance
New Balance 2002R Mule "Dark Grey Navy"
New Balance 2002R Mule "Burnt Orange"
New Balance 2002R Mule "Brown Corduroy"
New Balance 2002R Mule "Black Corduroy"
New Balance 2002R Mule "Off White"
New Balance 2002R Mule "OG Grey"
New Balance 2002R Mule "Grey Leather"
New Balance 2002R Mule "Light Pink"
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Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. Concerts, music, trying new restaurants, and catching the latest movies are some of the things I enjoy when not writing for Sole Retriever. Email: nick@soleretriever.com
