The Black edition takes the Protection Pack into darker, more atmospheric territory. Even in photos, the layered textures do most of the lifting. Everything sits within the Black and near-Black spectrum, allowing the sculpted overlays to sharpen the look without relying on contrast. The result is a 2002R that feels more tactical than lifestyle, but not in a costume way, more like something shaped by long nights, winter streets and rough weather rather than a purely aesthetic brief.
Gore-Tex adds exactly what this palette needs: structure, durability and a reason for the darkness to exist beyond style. When the jagged overlays meet the matte weatherproof surface, the shoe takes on a more armoured personality, almost like a stealth version of the original Protection Pack concept.
It’s the pair in the set that feels the most purpose-built, the one that doesn’t shout but quietly outperforms louder colourways when the rain hits. For anyone who likes their New Balance rotations cleaner, colder and more understated, this is the standout.
Buy New Balance 2002R Gore-Tex “Protection Pack” Black Online
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