During New Balance‘s resurgence, its 2002R “Protection Pack” has been one of its most popular series among sneakerheads.
The 2002R is a remix of the 2002 sneaker, which, despite its name, released in 2010 and hard a hard time taking off because of its high price tag of $250. It was brought back as the 2002R in 2020 with its midsole borrowed from the 860v2. Designer Yue Wu then gave the shoe a torn-away look inspired by the longevity of New Balance sneakers, and although it isn’t the official name, the “Protection Pack” moniker christened by a lone retailer has stuck with the sneaker through numerous new colorways.
This week, the next additions to the 2002R “Protection Pack” will arrive exclusively through the Boston-based sneaker boutique Concepts. Four new color schemes make up the assortment, which Concepts says it’s envisioned in the prestige of The Boston Athenaeum, a museum and private library founded in 1807.
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The “Sandstone” colorway sticks to shades of cream through its upper and sole unit, while the “Eclipse” and “Dark Moss” variants pair blue and green, respectively, with black and grey. Rounding out the tetralogy is “High Desert,” which is the most lively of the bunch for its mixes of tans and creams along with an army green.
All four of the sneakers make use of nubuck leather and mesh across the upper along with a speed-lacing toggle and a sole unit that combines Absorb cushioning, Stability Web arch support, and N-ergy shock absorption.
Concepts will host the initial launch for all through sneakers Thursday, Sept. 21, through its website and store. A wider release will then follow Oct. 1 through new Balance’s website. Pricing is set at $160 per pair.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior Trending News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
