Auralee’s Long-Awaited New Balance Wrpd Runner Sneaker Releases Next Week
The Japanese label debuted the silhouette on the runway in 2023.
Before New Balance launched its new Wrpd Runner silhouette last year, it chose the Japanese label Auralee to debut the sculpted, futuristic silhouette at Paris Fashion Week. The sneaker has since dropped in a number of colorways, and now the collaboration that introduced the Wrpd Runner to world is finally set to release.
The Auralee x New Balance Wrpd Runner will release next week in the two monochrome colorways befitting of the label’s minimalist sense of elegance. From the nubuck, suede and mesh upper down to an outsole that’s been given a wax treatment for a vintage effect, the Wrpd Runner is rendered entirely in black or cream. Auralee’s name isn’t anywhere to be found on the exterior, but it does make an appearance on the co-branded insole and a custom shoe box.
While the Wrpd Runner is intended to have a retro-future look, its midsole is entirely modern in its technology, as FuelCell foam hosts a medial stability post and an exaggerated crash pad design at the heel. Wavy details feature throughout, including the heavily rippled outsole.
Auralee has been collaborating with New Balance on a semi-regular basis since 2019 and has maintained a consistent aesthetic across models including the 1906R, 2002R, 550 and more.
The Auralee x New Balance Wrpd Runner duo is slated to release April 18 through the websites of New Balance and Auralee, as well as select third-party retailers. Pricing has not yet been announced.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior Trending 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.