New Balance Unveils Futuristic ABSORB 2000 Sneaker

Designed entirely in virtual reality, the new model pushes the brand's aesthetic in a more experimental direction.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 6:31am

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New Balance has unveiled its latest sneaker, the ABSORB 2000, which was designed almost entirely inside virtual reality by British footwear designer Charlotte Lee. The result is a sleek, sculptural shoe that departs from the brand's typical retro running models, featuring a futuristic upper, exposed pod cushioning, and a sole unit reminiscent of early 2000s concept footwear. Lee approached the project as a thought experiment, asking what early 2000s designers could have created with today's tools and technology.

Why it matters

New Balance has historically traded on its heritage and familiarity, but the ABSORB 2000 represents a bold step into more experimental, technical territory for the brand. This move could help attract a younger, more fashion-forward consumer base while still appealing to the brand's existing loyal following.

The details

The ABSORB 2000 was designed by Charlotte Lee, a British footwear designer who joined New Balance after studying at De Montfort University. Rather than starting with sketches, Lee modeled the shoe's form entirely in 3D virtual space, sculpting the proportions digitally before the first physical prototype was made. The result is a sneaker that looks unusually sleek and futuristic for New Balance, with a streamlined upper, exposed pod cushioning, and a sole unit that recalls early 2000s concept footwear.

  • The ABSORB 2000 will be available in stores starting in February 2026.

The players

Charlotte Lee

A British footwear designer who joined New Balance after studying at De Montfort University. She designed the ABSORB 2000 sneaker almost entirely in virtual reality.

New Balance

An American athletic footwear and apparel company known for its heritage running shoes that have become lifestyle staples.

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What they’re saying

“The process of looking back created the foundation of ABZORB. But this is where we look to the next generation. And this is ABZORB 2000.”

— Charlotte Lee, Footwear Designer, New Balance

“If I have the tools and the skill set that I have today, what can I do to push this aesthetic beyond what the designers of the early 2000s could have imagined?”

— Charlotte Lee, Footwear Designer, New Balance

What’s next

The ABSORB 2000 sneaker will be available for purchase on the New Balance website and in select retail stores starting in February 2026.

The takeaway

New Balance's foray into more experimental, futuristic footwear design with the ABSORB 2000 signals the brand's willingness to evolve and appeal to a younger, more fashion-conscious consumer base while still maintaining its heritage and core identity.