The New Balance 2002R "Hiking Boot Pack" Gets a Gorpcore-Inspired Makeover

Although it’s currently making waves within the lifestyle scene, Boston-based New Balance is best known for its running pedigree. Amongst their sport-ready-turned-lifestyle silhouettes is the New Balance 2002R, which was revived from the archives in 2020 and has enjoyed strong success ever since. Now, the style has received another update by way of a new New Balance 2002R "Hiking Boot Pack" recently shared by designer Yue Wu, which sees the shoe take on an aesthetic that’s way more suited to hiking trails than city living. Arriving in three outdoor-ready colourways, here's what to expect from the pack.

Arriving in rough-and-ready brown nubuck, the “Hiking Boot Brown” New Balance 2002R looks like it's ready to take on anything. A mix of mesh panels and perforations gives the pair a practical edge by aiding breathability, whilst the hiking aesthetic is highlighted by the metal eyelets and red rope shoelaces. Complimentary earthy shades of blue and green also decorate the upper and can be seen on the mesh panel at the ankle, as well as the pair’s N logos.

Underfoot, the “Hiking Boot Brown” 2002R features the style’s usual comfy N-ergy midsole, which arrives in solid black to match the added protective black leather panels around the toecap and the heel, giving the pair a chunkier appearance. Looking even closer, you’ll also be able to spot workwear-ready yellow detailing at the heel panel, as well as hints of green and red nestled within the sole unit.

Looking to the rest of the pack, the "Hiking Boot Black" 2002R is much more subtle, with the stealthy shade taking over the entire upper, save for a pop of purple on the laces and sole. The "Hiking Boot Beige" pair is much more colourful though, as tonal pinks and purples decorate the sandy beige base for a cute colour flush.

The New Balance 2002R "Hiking Pack" is set to drop towards the end of summer, so be sure to hit the release reminders if you're thinking of picking up a pair!

Up next, here's a closer look at Teddy Santis' newest New Balance 990v3.