Cop or Flop? Designer Junya Watanabe and New Balance Introduce a Must-Have Sneaker Loafer

Designer Junya Watanabe is causing a frenzy in the sneaker world thanks to his unique spin on New Balance’s comfort shoes.

The 1906L half dress shoe, half sneaker, is back in a few new colorways. Following the buzz from January, New Balance launched the sleek metallic silver colorway in September. Now, Watanabe is raising the stakes with two ultra-clean colorways revealed at Paris Fashion Week.  Dropping under his MAN sub-label, these shoes are a masterclass in modern minimalism, featuring premium leather and crisp, statement branding.

One style pairs an all-white leather upper with a bold black cushioning unit, accented by the Junya Watanabe MAN logo in black on the tongue. The second is a head-to-toe blackout look with a pop of white branding. The 1906L is perfect for those who value a shoe that can be dressed up or down. Think loafers that can be paired with dress slacks or a fall sweater dress.

These beauties will be available on October 18th at Dover Street Market New York, Comme des Garçons New York, and online at DSMNY. With an MSRP expected in the high $200s, shoppers should act fast, as these are sure to fly off the shelves.