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Even though the 204L was only introduced this summer, it’s already become one of the most hyped sneakers of 2025. Firstly, because it falls perfectly into the flat shoe trend. Secondly, because it’s affordable and easy to wear with just about anything. And thirdly, because it looks awesome. If for whatever reason you still don’t have a pair in your rotation, make sure you check out the upcoming New Balance 204L Silver Metallic Sage Green.
Inspired by running shoes from the late ’70s and early ’80s, the 204L is exactly the kind of thing your old man would’ve worn back in the day. Featuring what NB describes as a "multi-piece" upper, the base is made up of breezy mesh and Silver Metallic overlays add to the archival aesthetic.
While the Boston label could’ve stopped there and these would’ve sold out anyway, they’ve souped things up with clean Sage Green accents. A double-stacked "N" logo graces the sidewalls in suede, and all of this rests on top of a low-profile EVA foam midsole that gives wearers a closer feel to the ground.
Part of what’s fueled the 204L’s rise is its viral presence online. Influencers have latched onto the silhouette as the perfect alternative to chunky dad shoes. Over on TikTok, videos racking up hundreds of thousands of views showcase how the slim profile fits right into the current flat-shoe craze, while fashion editors and sneaker accounts alike have dubbed it New Balance's sleeper hit of 2025.
The New Balance 204L Silver Metallic Sage Green is just one of the many 204Ls that will release in 2025. It’ll be available via New Balance and select retailers both online and in-store. Want a pair? Then stop what you’re doing and grab the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated with the latest sneaker drops, raffles, restocks, release reminders, news, and more from across the world of streetwear.
Images via New Balance
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.
