With the ABZORB 1890, New Balance adds a new lifestyle model to the line-up. The silhouette blends signature brand DNA with visible tech, putting ABZORB front and center as a deliberate design feature.

Anchored in classic New Balance archive references, the ABZORB 1890 still establishes its own design language. As part of the ABZORB family, it uses the original 2002 sole unit with full-length SBS ABZORB, delivering the well-known ABZORB comfort without disrupting the silhouette’s overall shape.

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The upper adds visual motion through a seamless wave cutout pattern layered over exposed mesh, nodding to the original 890v3 design. Reflective “teardrop” details across the forefoot bring a futuristic edge.

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“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,” said James Lee, Lead Designer.

“The goal is always to strike the right balance—creating something that feels modern and compelling while still staying authentic. I’ve been at New Balance for long enough that the shoes I wore early in my career are now starting to show up as archive references, which is a pretty full-circle moment.

I actually used to run in the 890v3 when it was on the market, so having the opportunity to modernize a silhouette I’m personally familiar with made the process especially fun and meaningful.”

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The campaign, photographed by Nikolai Ahn, brings the ABZORB 1890 to life against Seoul’s vibrant backdrop. Ahn builds on the idea of balance, moving between the city’s lively streets and quieter retreats beyond the urban core.

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The New Balance ABZORB 1890 will release on March 12 and will be available at the following retailers: 43einhalb, AFEW, Asphaltgold, BSTN, HHV and SUPPA.

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Photos via New Balance