New Balances Unveils New Slip-On Sneaker Inspired by Y2K Trail Shoes

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New Balance progressing with success 9060 paired with sneakers and an unknown trail shoe from the 2000s.

The New Balance 8040 is out now, pairing the sole unit of the 9060 with a minimalist suede upper from a Y2K-era trail shoe. Featuring a look similar to archive outdoor models from Merrell or Oakley, the upper features a velcro strap instead of laces, making it easy to get on and off. The first colorway highlights two distinct elements with a tan upper featuring a black toe cap atop an all-black sole unit. The lining is also finished in black, while khaki “NB” logos appear on the strap and insole.

New Balance first introduced the 9060 in 2022, and it’s been a staple of theirs ever since. The futuristic silhouette borrows elements from across the 99X lineup while putting them through the lens of a Y2K aesthetic. The Abzorb cushioned midsole features a technology that dates back to the early ’90s and combines rubber and foam to balance compression and stiffness. The heel is then reinforced with Abzorb SBS, while the outsole’s diamond pattern is borrowed from the 860.

In addition to the brown and black colorways, navy and toned-down brown versions of the black also appeared via leaks in the spring.

The New Balance 8040 is currently available on New Balance’s website and is priced at $120.

New Balance 8040

About the Author:

Ian Cervantes is a Senior News Editor He specializes in sneaker news for Footwear News. He began his career in pop culture and previously covered streetwear and sneakers for Input and Highsnobiety. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t worry about his shoes getting dirty.

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