New Balance’s Abzorb 1890 is still a fairly new model, but it is already getting one of its most wearable colorways yet. The 2000s-inspired lifestyle sneaker is set to return in a grounded Linen with Pumpernickel and Basil Oil finish, giving its tech-heavy design a more outdoorsy feel.
The Abzorb 1890 stands out because it does not just borrow a general Y2K running-shoe look. Many of its key details come directly from older New Balance models, including the reflective welded teardrop overlays inspired by the 890v3 and the full-length Abzorb midsole taken from the 2010 New Balance 2002.
This new colourway makes those details easier to appreciate. The off-white upper is layered with deep brown synthetic and cow leather overlays, while green accents add a more natural, trail-adjacent feel. Even the chunky Abzorb midsole gets varying shades of green, helping the shoe look more cohesive than some of New Balance’s louder retro-futuristic designs.
The toggle lace system adds to that technical look, but the earthy palette keeps the sneaker from feeling too aggressive. It still has the layered, high-tech shape that makes the Abzorb 1890 interesting, only now it feels a little easier to wear day to day.
New Balance is not stopping with the neutral version, though. The Abzorb 1890 is also getting two brighter colour combinations: Streamsong with Alkaline Green and Dark Night, and Nordic Green with Wakame and Outfield. Those versions lean more heavily into the sneaker’s bold side, while the Linen, Pumpernickel and Basil Oil pair feels like the most versatile of the three.
The latest New Balance Abzorb 1890 colourways will be available on New Balance’s website from July 9 at 10 AM EST, priced at $180.
For a sneaker built from archive pieces, the Abzorb 1890 already feels surprisingly current. This earthy update only makes the design more convincing, especially for anyone who likes New Balance’s retro runners but wants something with a more technical edge.