This New Balance Low Profile Trainer Is a £120 Miu Miu Lookalike

The sneaker scene has definitely shifted, hasn't it? We're seeing a clear move towards more slender silhouettes, a direct response to the market becoming saturated with those bulky "dad" shoes and their hefty sole units. Trends always push back against the mainstream, so it was only a matter of time before we started anticipating the next big thing in trainers.

New Balance, for a good few years, has championed those chunkier, heritage styles, but it appears the sneakers brand is now stepping into the low profile game with a brand new design.

The 204L presents as a low profile option, featuring soles positioned very close to the ground, which firmly places it among the flatter trainer styles emerging in 2025. This progression is rather fascinating, tracing a path where Miu Miu initially teamed up with New Balance for a trainer, subsequently crafting a shoe within its own line that echoed New Balance's styling. Now New Balance is launching its own trainer that captures that DNA.

Right now, however, brands are keen to launch these grounded, less substantial models into the market. Nike delivers with the Total 90 III, an off pitch athletic shoe that has found new life as a lifestyle favourite. adidas has been ahead of the curve, maintaining its strong position with the Samba for two years now.

The New Balance 204L exhibits many resemblances to the Miu Miu x New Balance 530SL trainer collaboration. You'll notice its more streamlined, low slung construction and its refined aesthetic. However, Miu Miu's New Balance offerings typically originate from Italy and feature premium materials such as calfskin leather and suede, commanding a hefty $1,000 price tag. Coco Gauff recently endorsed them, incidentally. For all the latest trainer drop information, ensure you download The Sole Supplier app.

As this new silhouette prepares for retail release soon (already available in China), official images of a 'Mushroom/Arid Stone' colourway strongly hint at its inspiration. Just as the Italian fashion house dressed its 530 in a khaki/tan suede, New Balance mirrors the look with a comprehensive suede build across the multi layered upper. The low to the ground sole unit matches this earthy tone, with black rubber sitting beneath.

The 204L will likely retail for a similar price to other general release New Balance models, around £120. So, you can relax your grip on your wallet. For your best chance at snagging these at retail, make sure you hit that notification bell.