[Update 20 Dec 2022] We now have a clearer look at the upcoming pairs in the New Balance 1906D “Protection Pack” via more official images from the sneaker brand. Together with the images, we also received updated release details, with the possibility of the pack of four dropping as early as this month. First to grace us with its presence is the 1906D “Black” colorway, releasing on 23 December. Stay tuned for more updates.

[Update 15 Dec 2022] While release dates are yet to be confirmed, an additional of two colorways are slated to join the lineup, respectively “Black” and “Cream/Black”. With official images of the “Black” colorway surfaced, we are expected to see them to drop in the coming months. Stay tuned for updates here and in the meantime, check out the latest images in the article slider above.

[Update 7 Sep 2022] Courtesy of @woganwodeyang, we now have a closer look at another New Balance 1906 colorway that will be receiving the Protection Pack treatment. Similar to the Navy/Gray iteration, the lateral heel tab reads 1906D instead of the 1906R term we are familiar with. Though only time will tell what updates has been made on this model, the superficial changes are obvious – distressed gray suede wraps around white mesh. Black lands on the heel patterns and on the N lock logo, which is also trimmed with a metallic silver lining. The collar lining also adopts a gold finish while stacks of gold and silver cushioning make up the rear part of the sole. This colorway is reminiscent of the New Balance M1906RA, sans the deconstructed suede.

No release details as of yet, but we expect it to land soon with leaked samples making their rounds. For more pictures of the Gray/White colorway, look upwards to the slider.  In recent months, much of New Balance’s spotlight has been shared with collaborative partners like Aimé Leon Dore, BAPE and COMME des GARÇONS. However, the brand’s latest push for the 1906R model proves that the Boston-based brand need not rely on partners to release interesting and coveted designs — think luxe overhauls with gold detailing, retro looks that pander to the old souls, and more.

And the versatility of the 1906 model is further attested to with its entry into the Protection Pack family. Previously appearing on the 2002Rs, the Protection Pack is characterised by its unique cut outs and hairy suede that make it seem as if the shoe has been through… Flames? A tough trek? Regardless, it exudes a deconstructed aesthetic that has swept fashion trends, showcasing a vogue sensibility that has captured the attention of many New Balance lovers.

In similar vein to the first two instalments of the New Balance 2002R Protection Pack, the 1906 Protection Pack has been revealed in a navy/grey colorway. Hairy navy suede overlays are undercut with dark grey trim. Exposed beneath these rugged layers is a black mesh construction complemented with a black heel counter. It is worth noting that the lateral heel comes with a leather 1906D stitched tabs while an aged cream midsole furthers the been-through-it vibe of the shoe. A touch of futurism appears as silver linings and metallic silver/gold outlines around the NLOCK logo. The 1906D model’s 860v2 outsole comes speckled for added texture.

Though no concrete release dates have been released for this New Balance 1906D “Navy/Gray” Protection Pack, we expect its retail price to sit at US$150. Fret not, we’ll be sure to update you as soon as more information is made available.

In other New Balance news, check out first looks at the Sneakersnstuff’s upcoming collaboration on the 2002R (which is still in the prototype phase).

Images via @kicksdong

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