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When New Balance entered the 2020s, we were all unaware of how much cultural currency they would hold halfway through the decade. The brand traditionally catered to non-sneakerheads, even though they’ve been in the collaborative space for decades. However, as trends shifted, so too did the masses towards the Boston-based footwear label. NB isn’t sitting idle, as they’ve identified trends and provided silhouettes that perfectly tap into the zeitgeist. With women’s fashion entering a low-profile and thin-sole era, New Balance has the perfect answer with the 204L silhouette.
Over the last few months, early images and leaks about the 204L have hit the net, but New Balance has officially unveiled the sneaker alongside the reveal of its latest brand ambassador, Latin pop star Rosalía. Outside of this official unveiling of two GR colorways, Ronnie Fieg previewed an upcoming Kith collaboration on the model, and LA-based streetwear brand Basketcase received a friends-and-family version of the model for Paris Fashion Week 2025.
For the 204L's debut colorway, New Balance has decided to coat the model in a timeless khaki color palette, coating the multi-paneled suede upper in varying tan hues. The ‘70s runner-inspired panels are stacked along the midfoot, where an N logo is rendered in tan suede and white leather trim. 204L branding is displayed on the lateral heel, while NB emblems are stamped on the tongue. Finishing the sneaker is the thin foam midsole and an outsole inspired by 2000s and ‘70s runners.
The New Balance 204L Mushroom will release July 30, 2025, through New Balance and select retailers online and in-store. Available in unisex sizing, the retail price is set at $110. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via New Balance
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy watching films and discovering music. Follow me on Letterboxd @nickvlah For tips, reviews, or any shoes in a size 13, email nick@soleretriever.com
