The New Balance 2000 “Slate Grey” Doubles Down on Visible Tech

If the Y2K revival has taught us anything, it’s that nostalgia alone isn’t enough anymore. Mesh runners may still dominate rotations, but the conversation has shifted toward something louder — visible tech, sculpted midsoles, and footwear that makes its engineering part of the aesthetic. The next wave isn’t subtle, and New Balance is leaning into that energy headfirst.

Enter the New Balance 2000 “Slate Grey.”

Rather than digging into the archives, the Boston brand built this one from scratch. The 2000 doesn’t rely on retro credibility; it manufactures its own identity through aggressive proportions and exposed cushioning. ABZORB pods line the length of the sole unit, creating a segmented, almost mechanical foundation that immediately separates it from the sea of standard mesh runners.

This “Slate Grey” edition takes a more restrained approach compared to some of the silhouette’s louder debuts. A layered grey mesh upper is reinforced with synthetic overlays in tonal variations, while black accents sharpen the profile across the “N” logo, lining, and outsole. The contrast keeps things wearable, allowing the midsole tooling to remain the focal point.

Underfoot, the visible ABZORB setup does the heavy lifting — both visually and functionally. The stacked pods deliver a cushioned, responsive ride, while the sculpted geometry gives the model its futuristic stance. It’s technical without being gimmicky, substantial without drifting into costume territory.

At $170, the New Balance 2000 “Slate Grey” positions itself squarely in the premium performance-lifestyle space. It’s part of a broader rollout that continues to expand the 2000’s footprint within New Balance’s lineup, signaling that this isn’t a one-season experiment.

The New Balance 2000 “Slate Grey” is available now via NewBalance.com and select retailers.