The New Balance 2002R Embraces Seasonal “Sky Blue”

Matt Varga May 8th, 2025 (updated)

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When it comes to the New Balance 2002R, we wouldn’t describe it as being thrown to the wayside, more having sufficiently chalked off its flashy introduction and now settling into a mainline supporting role. In that casting, the silhouette remains admirable, still easily worn and capable of shapeshifting into a number of pantones, including “Sky Blue” as we careen towards the earnest start of summer.

Much like any NB product (see the New Balance “Grey Days” celebration), we’re used to seeing the New Balance 2002R entirely draped in neutral tones, or at the very least utilizing them for its base layer. The shoe at hand represents an inversion of those expectations, pinning the titular oceanic hue throughout its mesh base layer, bolstered with a contrast eye stay and swatch of suede at the bottom heel. Otherwise, further requisite tonality carries the rest of the design, particularly arresting with the beige midsole pods.

The New Balance 2002R “Sky Blue” should be landing via NewBalance.com sometime in the coming weeks, retailing for $145. Keep our Sneaker Release Dates page close by for direct pick-up links upon arrival.

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WHERE TO BUY

Mens New Balance 2002R

SKU: U2002RNA

RETAIL PRICE: $145

RELEASE DATE: 2026

US 2026

Retailer	Release type	Status
New Balance US	Standard	Check Site

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Written by

Matt Varga, Junior Editor

Matt Varga is an Editor at SneakerNews. Initially earning a degree in Video Arts and Technology, he got his start in video editing and writing in the music world — primarily on hip-hop and electronic. A long-standing interest in sneakers led him to switching over to footwear. An avid collector, his favorite sneaker of all time comes down to either the Air Jordan 1 “Black Toe” and Air Jordan 5 “Laney,” his first ever pick-ups. When he’s not writing, you can find Matt cooking, traveling, attending concerts and when weather permits, on the handball court.