NB 2002R Protection Pack Black

NB 2002R Protection Pack Black: Deconstruction in Absolute Contrast

The original Protection Pack featured a near-black, almost monochromatic "Phantom." The NB 2002R Protection Pack Black, released in March 2023, reinterprets this dark intention and enhances it with a silver counterpoint that creates a much more striking contrast. The dense black mesh covers the base without dilution or softening; the hairy black suede overlays appear on top with their jagged edges—before the silver-grey panels steal the show, carving out the midfoot and heel into areas of shadow and light with an almost chrome-like graphic presence under certain lighting conditions.

The black-outlined white "N" is the highlight of this contrast—the only entirely white element on the pair, crisp and bright, it sharply contrasts with the surrounding black with maximum graphic force. The discreet red "2002R" text on the side collar—the only warm color in an entirely cool palette—signs the pair with an accent that only reveals itself upon close inspection. The aged cream/grey ABZORB midsole and translucent grey N-ergy columns close the ensemble from below with a sobriety that allows the black/silver dialogue to operate freely above.

ABZORB + N-ergy in their Most Contrasting Version

Beneath the black/silver contrast that visually structures the pair, the 2002R Protection Pack "Black" fully retains its comfort architecture. The aged cream/grey ABZORB foam midsole absorbs impact along its entire length. The translucent grey N-ergy columns in the heel provide responsive cushioning in the main impact zone. Stability Web ensures arch support. The black rubber outsole provides traction and extends the black of the upper to the ground. Braided black laces, exposed foam on the tongue, and an embroidered heel tab complete a pair where every detail plays the same black/silver-grey contrast with the coherence of an object conceived as a whole.

Who is it for?

The New Balance 2002R Protection Pack "Black" is for the sneaker enthusiast who wants the most contrasting and graphically strong colorway in the dark register of the Protection Pack—one that goes further than the original Phantom by adding silver-grey as a second language, creating a visually richer tension between the two tones. It will appeal to Protection Pack fans who want a dark pair without the complete erasure of monochrome, and to fans of the white "N" on a black background—New Balance's most classic and timeless combination.

Technical Data

• Insole: Aged cream/grey ABZORB foam + translucent grey N-ergy columns in heel
• Stability: Stability Web under midsole
• Upper: Black mesh, hairy black suede overlays + metallic silver-grey panels, jagged edges
• Branding: Black-outlined white "N" on side, red "2002R" text on side collar
• Exposed foam: Tongue and heel tab
• Laces: Black
• Outsole: Black rubber
• Use: Lifestyle, daily, collection