New Balance 1906A

1906A

In 2022, New Balance revived a classic Y2K-era running silhouette known as the 1906. It quickly became a popular retro design, and a series of stylish variants were added to the collection, one of which is the 1906A.

The New Balance 1906A deconstructs elements of the original sneaker, creating a rebellious yet captivating look. Its upper is made from the same combination of breathable mesh and synthetic overlays, but some of the panelling extends over the stitching to form raw edges on the flanks and forefoot. Angular embroidered details appear seemingly at random across the outer, and the textile ribbons attached to the N-lock lacing system on the sidewall logos reach out beneath them in unruly fashion. This eccentricity continues on the tongue, whose branded label has been placed diagonally across it, and the lower lace loop, which is attached to a small perforated panel on the medial side of the toe box. Lastly, a ring-shaped emblem that is unique to the 1906A adorns the centre of the heel.

Alongside its bold aesthetic, the New Balance 1906A features the same performance-enhancing technology of the core model, including a supportive TPU heel cage and a Stability Web arch that works to bring strength and balance through the midfoot. The sole unit also incorporates various high-tech elements, from the N-ergy Gel cushioning and ABZORB SBS pods providing reliable shock absorption and bounce around the heel to the soft Acteva Lite foam, which helps to make the 1906A lightweight and comfortable. Below this, a layer of hard-wearing Ndurance rubber forms the shoe’s grippy outsole, thus completing its powerful design.

When it was released in 2024, the New Balance 1906A presented a novel approach to the series, drawing plenty of attention with its distinctive offbeat look. Crucially, it did so without compromising on what makes the 1906 such a great silhouette: outstanding cushioning and support for all-day comfort.