The New Balance 2002R Linen is a reimagined version of the sneakers from the early 2000s with a unique texture.

This iteration of the New Balance 2002R is made with an off-white mesh upper. Mesh dominates the toe box and the sides of the shoe, while the rest of the design is formed by suede overlays. Off-white hairy suede rounds out the toe box and runs under the laces from the top to the sole in several layers. Gray hairy suede appears around the top of the laces, while a wavy strip of off-white suede runs in waves back around the heel. The signature New Balance “N” appears in white on each side outlined in metallic silver, and the heel features an NB logo. The heel is also perforated for breathability. The tongue features a logo patch and 2002R branding can be found on the lateral heel. The shoe sits atop an off-white sole.

What we like best about this shoe are the hairy suede overlays that are reminiscent of the texture of linen, adding a unique touch. The New Balance 2002R Linen was released on December 13, 2023.