New Balance Takes a Step Into the Future With Its WRPD Runner Silhouette

Founded back in 1906, New Balance is a brand with a wealth of heritage behind it, and naturally, throughout its existence, it’s built up a long line of archival models to draw inspiration from. These days, classic styles like its 550, 574 and 99X series form the cornerstones of many sneakerheads’ rotations, but that’s not to say that newer models haven’t had a significant impact - in fact, quite the opposite.

Having dropped brand-new big hitters like the 327 and 9060 over the past couple of years, the Boston-based brand has recently introduced its newest silhouette, the WRPD (Warped) Runner. Making its first public appearance at Paris Fashion Week by way of collaboration with Auralee, the model was initially met with a mixed response, with some fans comparing the style to Yeezy and Nike running silhouettes. However, now we’ve had the pair in hand, we’re here to put all the doubts to bed, as we reckon that New Balance might just have another lifestyle classic on its hands.

Channelling elements of both old and new, the Warped Runner brings NB into a new era. Playing on the brand’s chunky dad-shoe reputation, the model manages to blend oversized proportions and sleek lines, creating a juxtaposition not often seen on lifestyle models. Underfoot, the Warped Runner’s already-infamous dual-layered midsole houses super-comfy FuelCell technology, while its uppers come crafted from a mix of breathable mesh and premium suede; the brand’s famed ‘N’ logo printed onto its side profiles.

After surfacing in a couple of colourways already, New Balance’s “Warped Runner” silhouette has finally been given a release date of the 16th of August. If these are on your radar, then be sure to hit the links below to secure your size, as we’re expecting these to be a hit.