The atmos x New Balance 2002R "Shibuya Rat" Is Made for City Living

The New Balance 2002R has enjoyed quite the renaissance since it was pulled from the archives in 2020, and has been a firm favourite for both controversial takes (mules or hiking boots, anyone?) and collaborations. The latest pair to join the line-up sees the Boston-based brand link up with atmos for a new take on the pair, so here’s everything we know so far about the atmos x New Balance 2002R “Shibuya Rat.”

The “Shibuya Rat” theme is nothing new for atmos, but the choice of the 2002R provides a refreshing take. To keep things cohesive, the colour palette doesn’t stray too far from New Balance’s signature greys, only this time pops of blue add a nice extra touch. In terms of construction, the “Shibya Rat” atmos New Balance 2002R arrives in the style’s usual leather, nubuck and mesh make-up, with added detailing visible in the pony-hair toecaps and side panels that come debossed with tiny rodent footprints.

Elsewhere, New Balance’s midfoot ‘N’ logo arrives in a steel blue shade, with lighter logo detailing appearing at the tongue. This all sits atop a comfy white N-ERGY midsole, which sees tonal blue shades splashed across the outsole to round off the “Shibuya Rat” atmos 2002R’s colourway.

Looking to get your hands on the “Shibuya Rat” atmos x New Balance 2002R? The pair is dropping at atmos Tokyo on May 28th, but be sure to hit the release reminders to be the first to hear if a wider New Balance release is in the works!

Up next, peep a closer look at the 2002R "Hiking Pack".