New Balance 860v2

860v2

In the early 2020s, New Balance brought back several of its classic running shoes. One of the silhouettes that paved the way for these returning retro designs is the 860v2 – a stylish mesh runner with high-performing technical features.

The first New Balance 860 was released in 2011, and a year later the brand updated both its upper and outsole to create the v2. When this shoe returned in 2019, it remained mostly the same, with a breathable base layer of open-cell mesh helping to cool the foot and arcing synthetic overlays bringing structural durability to the toe, midfoot and heel. These flexible, form-fitting materials combine with a soft foam sockliner to offer all-round comfort, and the reflective accents are an extra practical touch.

The sole unit of the New Balance 860v2 is packed full of supportive technologies, including plush, lightweight ACTEVA LITE foam and durable, flexible N-ergy Gel cushioning, which helps to absorb impacts from the road. ABZORB SBS pods further protect the heel, while a Stability Web shank stabilises things through the midfoot, ultimately facilitating a good transition from heel to toe. Hard-wearing Ndurance rubber covers the outsole, with complex, angular tread patterns providing dependable traction on a range of indoor and outdoor surfaces.

Aesthetically, the 860v2 is sleek and streamlined, with a narrow shape that evokes sporty elegance. Curving panels stretch out from the eyestay to frame the slim N logo on each flank, and minimal branding adorns the tongue and heel. Meanwhile, its sole unit is so iconic that it has influenced the design of other retro silhouettes, such as the popular 2002R and 1906R.

Although the New Balance 860v2 made its initial comeback in 2019, it wasn’t until 2023 that it really took off. In 2020, an appearance at Paris Fashion Week and a two-pack collaboration with streetwear label Dime helped it achieve moderate success. Then, in 2023, an inspiring partnership with lifestyle brand Aimé Leon Dore saw the sneaker reach new heights of popularity. This began with three colourways featuring off-white tones and vibrant contrasting hues whose popularity led to a host of general release sneakers coming out in 2024 and 2025. During this time, several colourways were added to the Aimé Leon Dore collaboration, two suave shoes were crafted by Japanese label Comme des Garçons and British designer Lorenz.OG brought his vibrant customisation style to the retro 860v2.

The New Balance 860v2 began as a stable running shoe but went on to become a captivating icon of modern fashion. Its sleek upper and cutting-edge sole unit make it the perfect combination of style and function, as well as one of the most influential sneakers in the heritage mesh runner trend.