New Balance 1906R Sizing: How Do They Fit?

After making its comeback in the form of a thisisneverthat collaboration, New Balance’s 1906R has become one of the most sought-after sneaker silhouettes right now. Oozing retro flair, the techy-looking mesh and leather runner is well-positioned to take on the Y2K trend, as it remains just as timeless now as it did when it debuted in 2009 - so its no surprise that the Boston-based brand has decided to focus its efforts on the model this year.

Having dropped in a couple of GR colourways since the back end of 2022, the 1906R has also been the canvas of choice for a couple of collaborators: Size?, Auralee and COMMES des GARÇONS have all since taken a stab at the sneaker. The model has even been given the “Protection Pack” treatment, following on from the success of the take on the 2002R, the 1906R’s partner in crime.

Boasting comfy ABZORB and N-ergy tech, as well as breathable mesh and premium uppers, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better-value sneaker right now. But, if you’ve yet to cop your first pair, you might have a couple of questions about how the New Balance 1906R actually fits. Well, fear not, as we’re here to tell you everything you need to know about the model’s comfort and styling, and more importantly, whether you should size up or down in the New Balance 1906R.

The New Balance 1906R runs slightly small. This is due to the model having quite a narrow fit. If you have wider feet, we recommend you go half a size up, but if your feet are narrow, you should be fine to stay true to size. This is often the case with New Balance footwear, so if you’ve bought from the brand before you can always check the sizing on your other pairs to see what New Balance size you should be wearing.

When has a New Balance shoe not been comfortable? True to its running pedigree, the 1906R’s sole unit is packed with N-ergy tech and ABZORB cushioning, which makes for a super-comfortable feel underfoot. ABZORB cushioning is a blend of rubber and foam that absorbs shock and protects against impact, and N-ergy is made from engineered, elastic-like gel, which also helps to absorb impact and propel you forward at the same time. As well as this, mesh uppers ensure that the pair feels light and breathable - ideal if you’ll be wearing them all day!

In order to pack this amount of cushioning in, you’ll notice that the 1906R might give you an extra cm or two of height - which comes in extra hand when it comes to styling them.

Though the 1906R may look retro, it definitely has some fashion-forward features - and that’s certainly the case for some of the newer colourways that have been dropping recently. And, with high fashion brands like COMME des GARÇONS getting involved, the styling possibilities are endless.

For those who are looking for simple ways to style the New Balance 1906R, we’d recommend wearing them with wide-leg trousers, or taking the techy look to the next level with parachute pants or cargos for more of a Gorpcore vibe. Opting for a tapered or elastic ankle like the latter two styles will highlight the shoes, whereas the first option is a more subtle look.

Because of their mesh build, the 1906R tends to work better in dryer seasons, though a couple of Cordura versions mean that year-round wear is absolutely possible too. Right now, styles have been focused on minimalist, neutral colour palettes (think greys, blacks and beiges) so they’re an easy match for pretty much any ‘fit.

New Balance has a whole host of celebrity fans, with Bella Hadid, Hailey Beiber and Jack Harlow all making frequent appearances in the brand’s styles. Though the 1906R is still in its infancy, it’s quickly becoming one of the hottest models about, and we wouldn’t be surprised to see it spotted on celebs very soon.

That being said, the New Balance 1906R has quickly become an Instagram favourite, frequently featuring on mood board accounts that show off some of streetwear’s most stylish fans.

If you don't want to miss out on the latest New Balance drops, we recommend you check back with us here at The Sole Supplier for updates!

Don't forget to check out our other size guides below for the best tips and advice on sizing, styling and more: