Release Reminder: size? x New Balance 2002R ‘Protection’ pack

While techy mesh runners dominate the sneaker scene today, things were quite different in 2021. At that time, New Balance was reintroducing the 2002R silhouette, playing a key role in the revival of this footwear style. In particular, the ‘Protection’ pack – a “wearable relic,” takes on the sneaker and helped elevate both the model and the brand to new levels.

Bringing back the ‘Protection’ pack

Even now, the original ‘Raincloud’ colorway from the 2002R ‘Protection’ pack can command prices of over $500 on the resale market. Following the release of multiple ‘Protection’ pack versions of the 2002R and 1906R, UK retailer size? is now assisting in the revival of the 2002R ‘Protection’ pack.

The pack consists of three colorways: two suede ones, a brown and a black one, and one featuring a metallic silver, leather upper. The first one (in the middle) uses brown earthy tones, adding contrast with brown underlays. A brown outsole completes the pair, giving the sneaker an outdoor look.

The all-black colorway reminds us a bit of the black version that was in the original ‘Protection’ pack, back in 2021, using black and grey tones. The third and final pair in the collection showcases a silver leather finish, reminiscent of DTLR’s holiday-themed 2002R from the previous year.

Each pair is completed with cream-colored laces and matching tonal midsoles and outsoles.

The draw for the size? exclusive New Balance Refined Future 2002R ‘Protection Pack’ ‘Brown’ opens on March 7th and runs until March 12th, 2025. The ‘Black’ and ‘Silver’ colorways don’t have a release date just yet.

On March 13th, 2025, the ‘Brown’ colorway will drop at the size? site as well, but be aware: this will be a small drop. Never miss a drop again with The Drop Date App!

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