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The New Balance 2002r steals its looks from other NB models especially the 990, the R was added in the 2020 re-release after first dropping in 2010. The sneaker is a combination of multiple sneakers with the N-ERGY gel cushioning midsole similar to the 860 V2. The original 2002 sneaker was designed by Senior Creative Design Manager, Performance Running, Andrew Nyssen.
New Balance was founded in 1906 as NB Arch Company in Boston and produces unisex performance running sneakers and apparel. Their sneakers focus on performance (customers foot) first and then design. “On average, each shoe consists of approximately 30 different parts sewed or boned together using different techniques.”
- Bought by Paul Kidd in 1956 – Hand-crafted Trackstar running shoe was introduced.
- Jim Davis, bought the company from Paul Kidd in 1972.
Quick Scroll
Do the new balance 2002rs run true to size?
Yes, the new balance 2002r trainers fit true to size with a snug toe box. If your size is between 7-10 (UK) with wide or flat feet they will fit tight in the toebox area, until you have worn them a few times. If you have wide or flat feet think about wearing thinner socks and loosening the laces.
New Balance has information on their website on how to lace your sneakers correctly.
new balance 2002rs On Feet Review
| Pros | Cons |
| All-day comfort. | Expensive. |
| Fit true to size. | Hard to clean. |
| Premium materials used. | Collab editions are hard to buy. |
The New Balance 2002r fits narrowly, the widest width of your foot will feel tight in the toebox area. Wearing thinner socks may result in a better fit.
What size should you get?
The new balance 2002r are narrow-fitting trainers from the foot arch to the toebox.
Narrow width feet
For narrow feet, you may feel like they fit tight on your toes but just get your normal size and loosen your laces slightly. After wearing them a few times the shoe will mold to your foot and start to feel roomier.
Medium width feet
Medium-width feet the 2002r trainers will fit tight on your feet, it’s best to loosen the laces slightly when tied. Half size up from your normal size.
Wide width feet
For wide feet they don’t fit true to size would suggest you get a half size up. If the sneaker feels too tight remove the insole and wear without. The best option would be to go for a different model like the New Balance 574.
Extra tips for wide feet
- If you have wide feet the widest part of your foot is likely to be squashed against the toe box sides, which is uncomfortable to rock casually and performing different activities.
- If your feet are wide this will probably cause blisters and a bit of soreness.
How to clean new balance 2002rs new balance 2002r
The New Balance 2002r is made with a suede, textile and mesh upper. To clean use a dry bristle brush or a suede cleaning kit. Check out our cleaning-related cleaning video for the best cleaning product kit to use.
To keep the new balance 2002rs fresh place them in freezer bags (keeps dust away) and insert shoe trees inside (maintains shape).
What to do if you have two different size feet?
Having different-sized feet is normal and if the difference in foot size is small you should:
- Choose the larger size if one foot is bigger than the other.
- Wear thinner or thicker socks depending on the difference in size.
- Go for another model such as the 574 with a wider toe box.
- Losen laces if the shoes become tight.
Is new balance 2002r new balance 2002r Sneakers Durable?
For Creasing
Yes, the majority of the upper is made with mesh and suede which makes it less likely to crease. The midsole uses N-ERGY cushioning technology a responsive gel that is durable and highly flexible. Make sure you rotate your shoes so you don’t overwear them.
For Stretching
Yes, the NB 2002r is less likely to stretch, as there is little use of leather on some models. Naturally, the sneaker will stretch and mould to your foot’s shape over time.
Final Thoughts
- Comfort is unbelievable over time the shoe improves…
- Plenty of colourways and collab special editions to choose from.
- Expensive but the premium materials justify the price point.
- Various panels with different materials make it tricky to clean.
New Balance 2002r FAQs
What year did the new balance 2002r come out?
The New Balance 2002r came back on the scene in 2020 after a 10-year absence. In 2020 the 2002R “Marblehead” style code ML2002RC was released.
Is New Balance 2002R a running shoe?
No, the New Balance 2002r is a men’s lifestyle sneaker that borrows design, performance, and support elements from the NB 1906.
Is New Balance 2002R waterproof?
No, most New Balance sneakers are not waterproof as they are made with mesh, layered fabric textiles, and other distressed materials. The New Balance 2002R Gore-Tex is waterproof, style code M2002RXB.
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I’ve been reviewing, buying, selling, and rocking sneakers since high school. Learned a lot since my first pair when I was 7 years old were And 1s (if you know you know). A lot has changed since the brand started in 2017 from reselling sneakers to now reviewing and writing informational content. The aim is to be authentic and honest with my opinions. Saucedby Lee out 🙂
