New Balance
1906R:
Everything You
Need to Know.
How a forgotten 2009 running shoe grew into one of the most wanted sneakers in the world — and why you still want a pair right now.
From shelf to hype: the history
The New Balance 1906R is a lifestyle running shoe that first debuted in 2009. Back then it was simply called the 1906 — named after the year New Balance was founded. The shoe features N-ERGY gel across the full length of the sole and an upper that is almost entirely mesh for optimal breathability.
The original version was not a commercial success. Too technical, too niche. New Balance shelved the model and it disappeared from the catalogue — until the Y2K sneaker wave in early 2022 changed everything.
"Few unearthed 2000s runners have had as much of an impact on the modern sneaker ecosystem than the New Balance 1906R."
The comeback: the 1906R
The popularity of Y2K running shoes in the early 2020s motivated New Balance to re-release the 1906 in 2022. The sole was replaced with that of the New Balance 860v2 and the model was renamed the 1906R — the "R" stands for remastered.
The model gained extra buzz when Teddy Santis' label Aimé Leon Dore chose it for a collaborative capsule collection. The metallic tones and neutral accents of that pair would go on to influence much of the general releases that brought the model back to consumers in earnest.
Today the 1906R is a fixture in the New Balance lineup — one of the few sneakers worn by both sneakerheads and a wider audience without losing any credibility.
Technology: what's under the foot?
The 1906R is more than a pretty face. The sole combines three of New Balance's best technologies in one platform — the same foundation shared with the 2002R and 860v2.
| Technology | What it does |
|---|---|
| ACTEVA LITE | Lightweight EVA foam for a responsive, flexible ride |
| N-ergy | Superior shock absorption in the outsole — the original signature of the 1906 |
| ABZORB SBS | Segmented cushioning at the heel — absorbs impact with every step |
| N-Lock lacing | Webbing system that wraps the midfoot when laced |
| Open-hole mesh | Upper with curvilinear synthetic overlays for structure and breathability |
Sizing: does it run true to size?
The 1906R fits true to size for most people. If you're between sizes, go with your standard size. The shoe has a roomier toe box than the 2002R, making it more comfortable for wider feet without losing the silhouette.
If you're used to Nike — go your standard Nike size. Used to Adidas or other New Balance models — same thing. The 1906R is one of the least surprising New Balance models when it comes to fit.
The best colorways — and where they stand now
With over 100 colorways in circulation, choosing is the hardest part. Here are the most sought-after — from retail classics to sold-out collabs.
New in 2026
New Balance is introducing the 1906R with a GORE-TEX upper for the first time — fully waterproof. Three colorways: grey, khaki and all-black, all featuring blue ABZORB SBS pods. This marks the first time the 1906R has received the waterproof treatment.
Early 2026 also saw the arrival of the "Metallic Alkaline" colorway — a white mesh upper with metallic silver overlays and alkaline green accents on the N-logo and midsole. The model is in its fifth year back on the market and shows no signs of losing momentum.
1906R for?
Shop the New Balance 1906R at ShoeSupply
118 colorways — from €101 to exclusive collabs. All verified authentic, sourced per order.