M1906RTI x thisisneverthat

New Balance and Korean imprint thisisneverthat are back again with a stellar collaboration, this time spanning two iconic mid-2000's running silhouettes.

The 1906R is the first time we've seen this obscure model since its release over a decade ago. The 1906 was the more high-tech running predecessor to the 2002, with swooping metallic panels and a solid heel support cage. The quirky NLOCK system incorporates the N logo into a short-lived technology designed to aid with foot lock-down.

The over-arching theme to this collaboration is a fictional event dubbed "The 2022 Downtown Run". The aesthetics draw heavily from vintage marathon and fun run merch – the sort of stuff you'd be excited to find in your local charity shop.

thisisneverthat built the shoes with NB's corporate colour scheme of grey and navy, applying a pre-distressed finish that replicates the stains shoes tend to develop when stored for long periods. The cushy N-ERGY sole unit shares the neo-vintage treatment with a creamy hue. They even feature the NB's Sure-Laces, which we loved enough to put on our Backyard Legends.