Adam Cheung is a writer and editor who specialises in sneakers and streetwear. Over the past few years, he's curated features and guides for everyone from Burberry to Nike. Often travelling between the UK and Hong Kong, don't be too surprised if you find Adam anywhere else around the world taking street photography or feasting on the local delicacies.
If you're a big fan of the legendary 1906R but you're looking for something that's a little more on the contemporary side, the upcoming New Balance 1906W Black is absolutely worth your attention. Giving the old school runner a fresh dose of new school energy, here's everything you need to know about this covert color combo.
One of the first things that you'll notice about the 1906W is the trippy overlay that takes over the Black Cement mesh upper. It looks like a web, right? It's actually the same Fantomfit overlay used on the brand's military-issued 950v2. Decked out in a gradient effect that fades from light grey to Castlerock, it's one of the most unique New Balances that we've ever seen.
Across the sides, the "N" logo doubles up as part of the lacing system, while smooth leather graces the toebox and eyelets for extra premium points. The sneaker is also covered in reflective 3M accents, meaning you can flex confidently even in the dark without losing that stealthy vibe.
But it's not just about its rugged good looks. As with all of the other 1906 spin-offs like the 1906A and the 1906D, the sole unit features a combination of flexible ACTEVA LITE cushioning, shock absorbing N-ergy tech, and segmented ABZORB SBS pods at the heel. While this might sound like a bunch of technical jargon, it basically means that the 1906W is extremely comfortable, supportive, and ready for long hours on your feet.
Landing sometime in 2025, the New Balance 1906W Black will drop in unisex sizing via New Balance and select retailers both online and in-store for $155. For your best chance to cop, make sure you download Sole Retriever’s mobile app to stay updated on the latest sneaker drops, raffles, restocks, news, and more from the streetwear world.
Images via New Balance
