Highsnobiety
Double Tap to Zoom

Brand: New Balance

Model: WRPD Runner

Release Date: August 18

Price: $140

Buy: New Balance

Editor's Notes: The WRPD Runner sneaker is nothing like we've seen from New Balance before.

In fact, I’d go as far to say that New Balance’s curvy silhouette could well be the beginning of a new era for the Boston-based label, which has historically been all about revamping traditional and archive models and bringing them into the present.

First revealed as a part of AURALEE’s Spring/Summer 2024 presentation during Paris Fashion Week, the WRPD Runner (which isn't too dissimilar to the build of a YEEZY) appears is new and original NB design, and one that’s about as wavy and futuristic as we’ve seen from the Boston outfit.

Your Highsnobiety privacy settings have blocked this Instagram post.

Boasting a clean mesh and suede upper, the WRPD Runner sits atop a midsole constructed from two pieces of what looks to be either foam or rubber (or both?) that distorts and warps the familiar.

Your Highsnobiety privacy settings have blocked this Instagram post.

Unlike previous New Balance sneakers, branding is sparse. More often than not with most NBs you’ll find embroidery on the heel, tongue, and even the toebox. However in this case there’s little more than a meshy “N” on the outer side of the sneaker.

Your Highsnobiety privacy settings have blocked this Instagram post.

Launching on August 18 in an initial “Sea Salt” colorway, the WRPD Runner also features soft sculpted FuelCell technology with a medial stability post and forefoot cushioning, as well as an exaggerated crash pad design in the heel.

"The WRPD Runner is a new concept driven by the unique space where style and performance meet," said Charlotte Lee, senior footwear designer at New Balance.

"The upper has a refined focus on simplicity and quality whilst the sole is a warped expression of our pinnacle running technology, FuelCell. The fluid lines of the foam are blended with the abstract nature of futuristic design, evoking a strong sense of movement."

This article was first published on July 12 and updated on August 9.

We Recommend
  • Action Bronson Unleashes His Wildly Colorful New Balance Runners
    • Sneakers
  • Ice Studios' New Balance Shoe Is a Colorful "Barefoot" Trail Runner
    • Sneakers
  • New Balance’s Retro Runner Is Now Gloriously Utilitarian
    • Sneakers
  • Action Bronson's Next New Balance Shoe Is a Vividly Rebellious Runner
    • Sneakers
  • New Balance's Foamy Runner Is Too Nice To Run In
    • Sneakers
What To Read Next
  • That One Margiela Artisanal Collection Is Everywhere (Again)
    • Style
  • As Piet Proves, Oakley Is Much More Than Glasses & Shoes
    • Style
  • Brilliant Japanese Retailer BEAMS Finally Sets up Shop in America
    • Style
  • Moncler & Burberry, Two Titans of Outerwear, Could Come Together. Should They?
    • Style
  • BAPE Made an Extremely Unlikely adidas Sneaker Ridiculously Fly
    • Sneakers
  • Nike's Techy Shox Sneaker Gets Shockingly Better in All-Leather
    • Sneakers