New Balance 1906

by New Balance

value-oriented

Product Variations

Trend Summary

The 1906 bridges the gap between the 'Retro Runner Revival' and 'Gorpcore' with its technical aesthetic and comfortable, performance-based design.

Key Features

Fusion of comfort and retro style
Technical mesh and metallic overlays
Popular for collaborations

Featured In

Hypebeast

Complex

Vogue

Product Specifications

Upper Materials

Primarily synthetic leather and standard polyester mesh for the upper, with printed or high-frequency welded synthetic overlays to create a layered look.

Lacing System

Standard lace closure with a separate, non-integrated side logo element.

Heel Counter

Internal heel counter for basic structure, with a simplified decorative external piece made from molded EVA.

Tongue

Lightly padded mesh tongue with a woven label.

Lining

Standard textile lining.

Midsole Compound

Single-density compression-molded EVA (CMEVA) foam.

Cushioning Technology

None. The focus is on the inherent cushioning of the EVA midsole.

Outsole

Full rubber outsole with a simplified, non-functional traction pattern inspired by the original.

Arch Support

None. No TPU shank or stability web.

Differentiation Strategy

Differentiation is achieved through significant cost reduction by simplifying technology and materials. Marketing will focus on the shoe as a fashion-forward, versatile sneaker for everyday wear rather than a performance-inspired product. The brand can rapidly introduce a wide array of trendy, seasonal colorways to appeal to fast-fashion consumers. The shoe's lighter weight, a byproduct of its simpler construction, can also be a key marketing point.

Success Replication

This product aims to capture the trendy Y2K running silhouette and aesthetic at an accessible price. Success hinges on visually mimicking the reference product's layered, multi-material upper using cost-effective synthetics and simplified construction. It will retain the overall shape, a prominent side logo, and offer colorways popular in the trend, such as metallic silver and monochrome schemes. The primary appeal is style and trend-relevance over performance.