[Update 7 Dec 2022] More release details for the New Balance 2002R Protection Pack “Khaki/Grey” have emerged. This upcoming pair, which is apparently part of a twin pack, is now being tagged to a Summer 2023 release date and a US$150 retail price. The style code, together with more images, have also surfaced. In these leaked photos, we can clearly see the “N-ERGY” text printed on the ribbed New Balance’s “N” logo, a never-before-seen design detail on the New Balance 2002R.

The New Balance 2002R is no new runner in the scene. Since its debut in the Made in USA collection 10 years ago, the model has slowly gained traction and propelled into hype status when it was the canvas for in-house designer Yue Wu’s distressed “Refined Future” vision (or more commonly known as “Protection Pack”). Applying mostly neutral, muted colors over a deconstructed but layered 2002R is the central draw of this look, and it seems like another ecru palette is joining the line up.

As its name suggests, this New Balance 2002R “Khaki/Grey” utilizes these two colors to make up the upper. Khaki browns dominate the underlying mesh and blistered suede overlays while a lighter tan gently washes the leather layers. Grey acts as the background for branding elements near the collar and tongue, while also finding occupancy on the midsole. Overall, the color is understated but the design dramatized, achieving exactly what the 2002R Protection Pack is so fondly known for.

No release dates have been attached to this news, but a 2022 drop is expected. ‘Till more information reveals itself, how about diving into this sophisticated KITH x New Balance 2002R in toasty Pistachio?

Image via Fullress