Global sportswear giant New Balance has unveiled its latest lifestyle silhouette, the ABZORB 1890, a bold new trainer that fuses heritage design with visible tech innovation. Launching globally on 12 March 2026, the ABZORB 1890 continues the brand’s legacy of comfort-driven performance while embracing a forward-thinking aesthetic.
Priced at £160, the model will be available via the official New Balance website and select retailers worldwide.
A Modern Take on Archival DNA
The ABZORB 1890 draws inspiration from New Balance’s rich design archive while introducing a contemporary visual language. Built on the original 2002 sole unit featuring full-length SBS ABZORB cushioning, the shoe offers the signature comfort that has made ABZORB technology a staple in the brand’s footwear lineup.
The technical sole unit ensures high-performance cushioning without sacrificing the streamlined silhouette. Meanwhile, the upper features a no-sew wave cutout pattern layered over exposed mesh, referencing the iconic New Balance 890v3. This subtle nod to the past reinforces the brand’s dedication to evolution rather than reinvention.
High-frequency welded reflective “teardrop” detailing across the forefoot adds a futuristic edge, enhancing both visibility and aesthetic appeal.
Designed with Authenticity in Mind
According to James Lee, Lead Designer at New Balance, balancing modern innovation with archival authenticity was central to the design process.
“For projects that reference archival models, a lot of the design process is focused on refining and improving existing elements without losing what made them special in the first place,” Lee explains. “The goal is always to strike the right balance—creating something that feels modern and compelling while still staying authentic.”
Lee adds that the project held personal significance, having previously run in the 890v3 during its original release cycle — making the evolution into the ABZORB 1890 a full-circle moment.
A Campaign Rooted in Cultural Energy
The launch campaign, shot by photographer Nikolai Ahn, positions the ABZORB 1890 against the dynamic cityscape of Seoul. Widely regarded as a global nucleus of youth culture, street style, and innovation, Seoul provides the perfect backdrop for a silhouette that bridges past and future.
Ahn’s creative direction captures the duality of the city — from playful urban streets to tranquil natural landscapes — mirroring the balance embedded within the trainer’s design philosophy.
ABZORB Technology: Why It Matters
Originally developed to enhance shock absorption and energy return, ABZORB cushioning remains one of New Balance’s most recognised performance technologies. By incorporating full-length SBS ABZORB from the 2002 sole unit, the 1890 ensures long-lasting comfort while maintaining structural integrity and everyday wearability.
The ABZORB 1890 isn’t just a lifestyle trainer — it’s a statement on how visible technology and archival storytelling can coexist in modern sneaker culture.
Release Date & Price
- Model: ABZORB 1890
- Release Date: 12 March 2026
- Price: £160
- Where to Buy: NewBalance.com and selected retailers globally
