New Balance’s Sold-Out 1906 Loafer Is Coming Back in Black
More from Footwear News
This New Balance Collaboration Is Inspired by Mushroom Foraging
Aimé Leon Dore's New Balance Sneaker Matches Its Custom Porsche 993 Turbo
After a rapid sell-out to ring in the 1906 Loafer’s debut in silver, New Balance is bringing back its polarizing silhouette in black.
The New Balance 1906 Loafer “Black/Phantom” will release at the beginning of December. The entirety of the mesh and leather sneaker-loafer hybrid is rendered in black, with only the 1906L branding beneath the collar deviating in silver. A glossy TPU heel counter mixes up the finish, but the treatment stays relatively simple.
Junya Watanabe unveiled the 1906’s transformation into a loafer at the beginning of the year at Paris Fashion Week, immediately drawing feedback as loud as it was polarizing. Many have praised the blend of aesthetics benefiting from the comfort of sneakers while others have seen the 1906L as a step too far in experimentation. Regardless of the mixed reviews, though, New Balance’s initial release for the silhouette had no problem selling out expediently. Junya’s all-black version has also sold out at a higher price, while it’s white and black variant can still be found in select sizes.
The 1906 series, particularly the 1906R, has been a runaway hit for New Balance since its return in 2022. The shoe originally debuted in 2009 and was brought back as the 1906R 13 years later with a sole unit borrowed from the 860v2. Other spin-offs have included the distressed 1906D and more trail-influenced 1906U, short for “utility.”
The 1906L, meanwhile, has come as many men have broadened the type of footwear in their rotation, including loafers and mules.
The New Balance 1906 Loafer in “Black/Phantom” will release December 5 through New Balance’s website and select-third party retailers. Pricing is set at $160.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
Best of Footwear News
The Most Iconic Shoe Trends of the 1980s: From Jelly Shoes to Air Jordan Sneakers
Here's Everything You Need to Know About Nike Air Force 1 Shoes History
Sign up for FN's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
