Auralee x New Balance announces launch of the WRPD runner shoe

Auralee x New Balance announces the launches of the WRPD runner shoe
Auralee x New Balance launched a new iteration of the WRPD runner shoe ( Image via New Balance)

Auralee X New Balance launched the WRPD runner shoe, which was introduced at Paris Fashion Week. Packed in two different color schemes, the sneakers blend the creative prowess of Auralee with the functionality of New Balance.

Auralee, the Japanese brand, is renowned for its minimalistic fashion. Previously, the brand collaborated with the Boston-based shoe label New Balance on its 1906R lineup.

The present collaboration, however, launched WPRD runner shoes, incorporating a monochromatic color tone. The sneakers feature a mesh, suede, and leather upper, underscoring the retro aesthetics, while the bulky structure aligns with the chunky sneaker trends.

Auralee x New Balance WRPD sneakers hit the shoe market on April 18, 2024, and one can obtain the sneakers for $159.99 from the NB store.


Features analysis of Auralee x New Balance WRPD shoes

Auralee x New Balance introduced the WRPD sneakers in two different colorways: "Phantom with outerspace and vintage indigo" and "Bone with timberwolf and turtledove." Nowadays, Auralee is known as one of the trendiest fashion brands in Japan, offering cool ensembles.

Ryota Iwai, a Bunka Fashion College graduate, founded the brand in 2015. The increasing popularity of the brand lies in its slow fashion trend. Moreover, the color implementation adds a notable flair to his design.

The brand introduced the Auralee x New Balance WRPD sneakers,

"The uniquely conceptual design of the WRPD Runner is brought to life through a combination of exaggerated proportions and minimalist restraint. This new silhouette suggests a sense of fluid motion, with the sculpted contours of a full-length FuelCell midsole and an array of wavy accents surrounding an understated knit upper."

It continues,

"Auralee's take on the WRPD Runner is characteristically elegant and minimalistic. A monochrome colorway is paired with leather and suede overlays and a hairy suede heel counter."

The WRPD runner is structured with mesh, which is layered with hairy suede and leather, accentuating the retro fashion flair. On the other hand, the sole unit is done meticulously, incorporating the contemporary chunky fashion trend.

In the overall shoe structure, the sole unit garners most eyeballs. The infusion of the fuel cell midsole provides comfort and a cushy feeling to the wearer while enhancing the volume of the shoe.

The outer sole is quite sleek, poising the sole unit. The herringbone pattern is carved on the outer sole, ensuring better traction during intensive running. The pattern continues at the heel tab.

The mesh silhouette on the upper is designed with layers of cut-outs in leather and suede. At the mudguards and toe cases, the suede hair was complemented by the leather cut out at the midfoot. The hairy suede creates a luxurious appeal, which is incorporated at the back.

The tongue features the same mesh upper, structured as the voluminous silhouette. The lace system incorporates the same color, while the N logo is etched at the lateral counter.

The Auralee x New Balance WRPD running shoes incorporate the monochrome color palette, showcasing the signature style of Ryota Iwai. Three different color schemes—bone, turtledove, and timberwolf—create the beige colorways. The navy blue colorways feature vintage indigo and Phantom tints, embarking on the color prowess of the designer.


The Auralee x New Balance WRPD running shoe hit the shoe market on April 18, 2024, with a price tag of $159.99. The shoe is available at New Balance and other selected retail stores throughout the world.

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