New Balance 204V: The New Low Profile Trainer On Our Radar

There’s a new silhouette in town, and it’s doing things a little differently.

Meet the New Balance 204V, a low profile trainer that takes a slightly unexpected route through the New Balance archive. Part ’70s running shoe, part Y2K technical trainer, with a subtle nod to climbing footwear thrown in for good measure. In other words, it’s got references.

And while it might look familiar at first glance, the 204V is very much its own thing.

A New Take on Old References

The 204V might be new, but its design language has been around for decades.

New Balance has pulled from the streamlined proportions of ’70s running shoes, bringing that low-to-the-ground silhouette into a much more technical 2000s inspired world. The result is a trainer that feels distinctly retro without looking like it’s simply been pulled from the archives.

Then there’s the climbing influence.

Rather than going full hiking boot, the 204V borrows subtle details from climbing and approach footwear, most noticeably through its alternative closure and curved overlays. The single strap replaces traditional laces, giving the shoe an almost unexpected Mary Jane-esque quality while keeping its technical credentials firmly intact.

It sounds like a lot. Somehow, it works.

So, What Makes the 204V Different?

For us, it’s the proportions.

While the chunky runner has dominated the trainer conversation for some time, the 204V goes in the opposite direction. Its slim profile feels sharper, lighter and a little more fashion forward.

It sits somewhere between a technical runner and a lifestyle trainer, which is exactly why we think it has serious wardrobe potential.

The 204V also weighs in at just 226.9g, with an EVA midsole keeping the construction lightweight.

But the real appeal is that it doesn't scream running shoe. It has enough technical detailing to add interest to an outfit, without making you look like you're about to start a 10K at any given moment.

And honestly, we like that.

How We'd Style the New Balance 204V

01. The Everyday Uniform

The easiest place to start? Baggy trousers.

Pair the 204V with a relaxed pair of cargos or wide leg trousers, then add a fitted tee or slightly cropped top to balance out the proportions.

The low profile of the shoe works particularly well with a longer, looser trouser. Let the hem sit naturally over the trainer and allow a little of the shoe to peek through.

Very little effort. Considerably more outfit.

02. Denim, Obviously

The 204V and denim are going to get along just fine.

We'd go for a relaxed or slightly baggy jean rather than anything too skinny, keeping the rest of the outfit simple. Think vintage tee, lightweight jacket and your favourite pair of jeans.

If you're working with one of the more colourful 204V colourways, keep the rest of the look relatively tonal and let the trainers do the talking.

Because sometimes the shoe needs its moment.

03. Technical, But Make It Fashion

This is where the climbing influence starts to make sense.

Pair the 204V with technical trousers, a lightweight shell or an oversized windbreaker for a look that nods to outdoor dressing without going full expedition.

The trick is not to overdo it. One or two technical pieces are enough. You don't need to look like you're halfway up Ben Nevis.

Think city after the trail, rather than actually on the trail.

04. The Skirt Situation

We're also very into the idea of styling the 204V with something traditionally more feminine.

A mini or midi skirt with an oversized sweatshirt, socks and the 204V gives the trainer a completely different feel. The low profile works particularly well here, adding a slightly unexpected sporty element without overwhelming the outfit.

It's the kind of combination that looks like you didn't think about it too much.

Even if you absolutely did.

The Verdict

The New Balance 204V is a pretty good example of where trainers are heading right now.

Instead of simply reviving an old classic, New Balance has taken familiar design codes and scrambled them together. ’70s running, Y2K sportswear, climbing details and contemporary proportions all make an appearance, but the end result feels surprisingly cohesive.

It's nostalgic without being costume-y, technical without being overly sporty and different without being difficult to wear.

Basically, the kind of trainer that makes your outfit look like you know what you're doing.

Even if you got dressed in seven minutes.

The New Balance 204V is available now in bayberry / lone star grey and turtledove / timberwolf.