New Balance ABZORB 2010: Digging into the Reviews and Tech Specs

New Balance. The name conjures up images of proper running heritage, doesn't it? They've got a knack for crafting trainers that look just as good pounding the pavements as they do kicking back at the pub. And their latest offering, the ABZORB 2010, looks set to continue that tradition, blending a nod to their rich history with a distinctly modern, almost Y2K vibe.

Word on the street - and in the initial reviews - is that these trainers have certainly caught the eye. They've managed to weave in those classic New Balance touches with a forward-thinking style. And the inclusion of their trusty ABZORB cushioning is a big tick in the box for many, promising that all-important comfort for everyday wear.

However, it's not all plain sailing. Some early feedback suggests that the overall comfort might not quite stack up against some of New Balance's other top-tier offerings. It seems that when it comes to cushioning, it's a bit of a personal preference thing.

Technically speaking, the ABZORB 2010 is a bit of a clever mix of materials and design elements, aiming to deliver both the style points and the support you need. So, are these the next must-have for your rotation? Let's have a proper look.

Getting Acquainted with the New Balance ABZORB 2010

New Balance has always been a dab hand at creating footwear that effortlessly bridges the gap between performance running and everyday life. It's a core part of what they do. And the ABZORB 2010, officially unveiled in April 2025 and hitting shelves on May 7th, 2025, is the latest in this fine tradition.

The initial colourways, like "Vintage Khaki" and "Dockside with Indigo," set a distinctly earthy and heritage-inspired tone for the shoe. Design-wise, the ABZORB 2010 is deliberately crafted as a bit of a hat tip to their much-loved 900 and 1000 series. The aim? To bring these iconic lines bang up to date while staying true to New Balance's design DNA.

According to Sam Pearce, New Balance's Senior Creative Design Manager, the goal wasn't just to dust off an old model. It was about innovating and telling a fresh story. The ABZORB 2010 takes its cues from the proportions of the 990 lineage but draws even more significantly from the techy aesthetics of the 1000 running series from the 2000s, refining that complex, layered look into something a bit more polished for everyday wear.

Before its general release, the ABZORB 2010 made its debut through a collaboration with Kith, generating some serious buzz and giving us an early peek at the silhouette. This smart move to introduce the new model through a well-respected name in the trainer community suggests a clear plan to build up some serious desirability right from the get-go.

The Good Bits: What Reviewers are Loving

Ace Design and Proper Style

The New Balance ABZORB 2010 has been getting props for its retro-future look, really nailing those Y2K design vibes. Think prominent mesh bits, reflective flashes, and a generally more substantial shape - right in line with what's popular at the moment, blending that vintage feel with modern tech.

Reviewers have been quick to point out that the ABZORB 2010 is instantly recognisable as a classic New Balance, a testament to how well they've woven familiar brand elements into a brand-new model. A particular highlight is the diamond-knit pattern on the upper, adding a proper bit of texture to the shoe's overall look.

The design is a clear nod to the iconic 900 and 1000 series from New Balance's past, cleverly bridging the gap between their heritage and their current design direction. They've taken the fundamental shape of the 990 lineage and layered on inspiration from the more technologically driven 1000 running series of the noughties, refining it all into a sophisticated lifestyle aesthetic.

What's more, the shoe incorporates familiar features from the celebrated 99X series, including design cues from the 990v4 and 990v3, like that elevated 'N' logo sitting proudly on the midfoot. Some folks reckon the ABZORB 2010's visual appeal might even pip other popular New Balance lifestyle models like the 2002R or the 1906s to the post, which is a strong thumbs-up for its design language.

It looks like New Balance is tapping into that growing love for the aesthetics of early 2000s running shoes - a style that's having a real moment in the fashion and trainer world. By bringing back familiar design elements from their successful back catalogue, they're aiming to build trust and appeal with both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

Proper Comfortable Cushioning

A key positive that keeps cropping up in reviews is the inclusion of New Balance's ABZORB cushioning in the midsole, backed up by ABZORB SBS in both the heel and forefoot. They've even made it a bit more substantial, so it's a real focal point of the design. Plus, there's dual-density ABZORB cushioning specifically in the heel area.

The main job of the ABZORB midsole is to soak up those impact forces through a clever combo of cushioning and compression resistance, making for a comfy ride. To boost the comfort even further, they've added a mid-foot Stability Web and SBS gel pods, all working together to provide both cushioning and support.

According to the New Balance design team, every single material used in the ABZORB 2010 was carefully chosen with wearability in mind. They wanted to make sure it felt good from the moment you slipped it on, right through to the durability of the nubuck and mesh upper.

As a result of all these comfort-focused features, the ABZORB 2010 has been tipped as a versatile "daily driver" type of trainer. Think running errands, general styling, and even those long walks when you're travelling. It seems New Balance is positioning the ABZORB 2010 as a lifestyle-oriented model, really prioritising that everyday comfort rather than just focusing on high-performance athletics. The deliberate use of multiple ABZORB technologies shows a thoughtful and layered approach to cushioning, aiming for that sweet spot of effective impact absorption and essential stability.

Quality Materials and Solid Build

The New Balance ABZORB 2010 boasts a layered construction that uses standard mesh as its base, spruced up with single stitches and a large diamond mesh overlay - all contributing to a premium look and feel. This smart base is further enhanced by suede and leather overlays, as well as a luxuriously soft sock liner, boosting both the aesthetics and the feel when you're wearing them.

The upper of the shoe prominently features that diamond-knit mesh, chosen for its breathability, ensuring your feet stay comfy even when you're wearing them for longer periods. To give the upper some structure and support, they've strategically incorporated nubuck and synthetic overlays into the design.

Notably, the "Grey Days" edition of the ABZORB 2010 features premium suede overlays on that diamond-knit mesh upper, adding a touch of classic heritage to the shoe's noughties-inspired design. This focus on the selection and combination of materials suggests a real effort by New Balance to enhance the perceived quality and overall durability of the ABZORB 2010. The detailed descriptions of the upper's construction and the use of materials like premium suede indicate that the brand is aiming to deliver a product that not only looks the part but also offers a high level of craftsmanship.

A Few Potential Downsides and Things to Consider

Comfort Compared to Other New Balance Kicks

While the ABZORB 2010 does feature ABZORB cushioning, some reviewers have mentioned a slight disappointment in its overall comfort when put side-by-side with other New Balance offerings. One video reviewer, for instance, noted a personal preference for the fit and comfort of the brand's 900 series models, like the 993s or 990s, suggesting the ABZORB 2010 might not offer the same level of plushness.

This sentiment is echoed in discussions comparing ABZORB to New Balance's Fresh Foam technology. For those who are used to the softer cushioning of Fresh Foam, particularly if they have conditions like foot neuropathy, ABZORB might feel comparatively firm. While ABZORB is often praised for its supportive qualities that are great for all-day wear, that immediate plushness you get with Fresh Foam might be missing in the ABZORB 2010 for some.

Putting this into context, reviews of the New Balance 9060, which also uses ABZORB cushioning, sometimes compare its sole comfort to that of Adidas Ultra Boost and Yeezy models, indicating that some consumers might find the cushioning in ABZORB-equipped shoes less soft than their preferred alternatives. This suggests that while ABZORB provides a certain level of comfort and support, it might not deliver that ultra-soft or "cloud-like" feel that some trainer enthusiasts have come to expect from other cushioning technologies.

New Balance's strategic use of a diverse range of cushioning technologies, including ABZORB, Fresh Foam, and FuelCell, caters to a wide range of comfort preferences and intended uses. If you've got specific comfort needs, you might find that exploring models featuring Fresh Foam for a softer ride or FuelCell for more responsiveness could be a better fit than the ABZORB-equipped 2010.

Potential Issues with Fit or Sizing

One video review of the New Balance ABZORB 2010 mentioned a slight disappointment with the overall fit of the shoe. While the general consensus across various New Balance models is that their sizing tends to be true to size (TTS), it's always a good shout to check out the official sizing charts provided by the brand to make sure you get the most accurate fit.

Although the TTS feedback mentioned here was in the context of the New Balance 9060, it gives you a general idea of New Balance's sizing consistency. However, everyone's feet are different, and personal preferences can really influence how a shoe feels. So, while there are general guidelines, the best way to know for sure with the ABZORB 2010, or any new footwear, is to try them on in a shop if you can. This hands-on experience lets you properly assess the comfort and fit, taking into account the unique shape and size of your feet. Given the slight concern raised by the video reviewer about the fit, it really highlights the importance of this step to ensure you're chuffed with your purchase.

It's All a Matter of Taste, Innitt?

Feedback from online communities, like Reddit, shows that while many appreciate the design of the New Balance ABZORB 2010, it's also drawn some subjective criticism. Some users have said the model looks a bit too bulky or "chunky" for their liking, which might not sit well with those who prefer a sleeker or more streamlined look.

On top of that, a few Reddit users have described the upper design as a bit messy and lacking overall cohesion, suggesting that the various design elements might not gel together as well as they'd hoped. One specific comment pointed out a dislike for how the toe box looks from a particular angle.

Furthermore, some long-time New Balance enthusiasts have voiced a feeling that the design language of newer models, including the ABZORB 2010, doesn't have the same sense of cohesion between models made in the UK and those made in Asia. There's also a feeling among some that these newer silhouettes might not evoke the same sense of inherent quality or nostalgic connection that's often associated with New Balance's more established heritage models.

For some observers, the aesthetic of the ABZORB 2010 bears a resemblance to designs from brands like Asics and Nike, which might not be entirely appealing to those who prefer a more distinctly "New Balance" look. One user specifically mentioned a dislike for the mesh material used on the toe of the shoe.

These subjective opinions show that while the ABZORB 2010 aims to strike a balance between retro and modern design, its particular execution might not universally resonate with all consumers. If you've got a strong preference for a specific New Balance aesthetic or favour certain design elements, you might find the ABZORB 2010 less appealing than other models in their extensive range.

Peeking Under the Bonnet: Technical Specifications

The upper of the New Balance ABZORB 2010 is built using a mix of materials designed for both looks and performance. It features a breathable diamond-knit mesh as its main layer, providing ventilation and flexibility. This mesh is complemented by overlays made of nubuck and synthetic materials, strategically placed to offer structure and support to your foot. Notably, the "Grey Days" edition incorporates premium suede overlays, adding a touch of that heritage vibe.

The cushioning system in the ABZORB 2010 centres around an ABZORB midsole, which includes ABZORB SBS (Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene) in both the heel and forefoot for better impact absorption. On top of that, the shoe features dual-density ABZORB cushioning specifically in the heel, a translucent TPU Stability Web shank in the midfoot for added support, and SBS gel pods integrated into the sole unit.

Other design bits include sculpted details on the midsole, reflective accents to help you be seen, a molded 'N' logo as a signature branding touch, and a traditional lace closure system for a secure and adjustable fit.

The known style codes for the New Balance ABZORB 2010 include U2010AGY, often linked with the "Vintage Khaki" or "Dockside Indigo" colourway, U2010GD for the "Grey Days" edition, and U2010ANV for another brown-toned option. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the ABZORB 2010 is set at $160 USD. The general release of the trainer was on May 7th, 2025.

New Balance provides a comprehensive size and fit chart that includes US men's and women's sizes, UK sizes, European sizes, and corresponding foot lengths in centimetres to help you pick the right size.

The combination of all these technical features suggests a design that aims to provide a good balance of cushioning and stability, making it suitable for everyday lifestyle wear. The relatively accessible price point, compared to some of New Balance's higher-end lifestyle models, might position the ABZORB 2010 as a more budget-friendly option for those after a blend of style and comfort.

What the People are Saying: User Sentiment and Feedback

Analysing what folks are saying online, particularly on platforms like Reddit, reveals a real mix of opinions about the New Balance ABZORB 2010. There are definitely mixed reactions to the shoe's overall design, with some users initially liking its potential and others being more critical or dismissive right off the bat.

Comparisons to other models within the New Balance lineup are common, showing that people are trying to place this new release within the context of the brand's existing offerings. A recurring theme in the discussions is a desire to see more colourways of the ABZORB 2010, suggesting that the initial colour options might not be hitting the spot for all New Balance fans.

Some users have specifically commented on the upper design, describing it as "messy" or lacking a sense of cohesive integration between its various parts. Additionally, there's a feeling among some that the overall silhouette and design language of the ABZORB 2010 leans more towards the aesthetic of brands like Nike rather than the traditional look and feel often associated with New Balance's "Made in UK" models. One user specifically mentioned not liking the mesh material used on the toe of the shoe.

A video review also added to the user sentiment, with the reviewer expressing disappointment in the shoe's fit and comfort level compared to other New Balance models, despite acknowledging its appealing visual design.

This mixed bag of initial reactions suggests that while the ABZORB 2010 has definitely grabbed attention for its design, its comfort and overall aesthetic will likely be key factors in determining its long-term success and how widely it's embraced by New Balance consumers.

A Closer Look at ABZORB Technology

The ABZORB technology is a real cornerstone of New Balance's cushioning innovations, first making an appearance way back in 1993. It's engineered to provide top-notch impact absorption through a clever combination of cushioning materials and compression resistance. Over the years, ABZORB has been a key feature in many of New Balance's most popular and iconic silhouettes, from performance running shoes to lifestyle models, including the 530, 740, and 993.

A variation of this technology is ABZORB SBS, which is a segmented form designed to offer extra stability and comfort, often strategically placed in high-impact areas like the heel and forefoot.

When we're talking about comfort, it's worth remembering that New Balance offers a range of cushioning technologies, each with its own unique characteristics. For example, Fresh Foam is often seen as providing a softer and more plush underfoot feel, which can be particularly appealing for individuals with specific foot conditions or those who really prioritise a cushioned ride. Models like the 1080, More, and Rebel feature this tech.

In contrast, ABZORB is sometimes described as offering a more balanced approach, providing both impact absorption and a degree of support that can be beneficial for all-day wear. Another key cushioning technology in New Balance's arsenal is FuelCell, which is known for its responsiveness and energy return, often found in more performance-oriented models as well as some lifestyle trainers like the 990v6 and RC Elite.

Having these diverse cushioning options within their product line allows New Balance to cater to a wide range of personal preferences for comfort and the intended use of the shoes. ABZORB, with its established history and well-rounded properties, represents a significant part of New Balance's cushioning heritage, providing a reliable foundation for models like the new 2010

Table 1: New Balance Cushioning Technology Comparison

How Does It Stack Up? Comparison with Other New Balance Models

ABZORB 2010 Versus the 990 Series (e.g., 993, 990v6)

Several reviews have drawn comparisons between the New Balance ABZORB 2010 and the brand's highly regarded 990 series. As we touched on earlier, one video reviewer mentioned a preference for the fit and comfort offered by models within the 990 series, such as the 993 and 990v6. The 990 series has long been known for its exceptional comfort, top-notch materials, and iconic status in the trainer world.

One of the main differences in comfort between the ABZORB 2010 and the more recent 990v6 is the cushioning technology they use. The 990v6 features a combination of FuelCell and ENCAP, which is often praised for providing a modern, comfortable, and responsive ride with a noticeable spring in its step.

When it comes to price, the "Made in USA" versions of the 990 series, like the 990v6 and 993, typically come with a higher price tag compared to the ABZORB 2010. This suggests that the ABZORB 2010, with its more accessible price point, might be positioned as a more budget-friendly option that still offers a taste of New Balance's signature style and comfort, albeit perhaps at a slightly different level than the premium 990 series.

ABZORB 2010 Versus the 2002R

The New Balance 2002R is another popular lifestyle model from the brand that shares a retro-inspired design aesthetic from the early 2000s, much like the ABZORB 2010. Interestingly, the 2002R also features ABZORB cushioning technology in its midsole, often paired with N-ergy gel pods in the heel for extra shock absorption.

Since it was brought back in 2020, the 2002R has become a real favourite as a comfortable and stylish everyday trainer, a go-to choice for many trainer enthusiasts. Funnily enough, the original New Balance 2002 model, which the 2002R is based on, was first released in 2010 - the same year that gives the ABZORB 2010 its name, highlighting a shared era of design influence.

User feedback often suggests that the 2002R is a very comfortable shoe for day-to-day wear, with its ABZORB cushioning and supportive features contributing to a pleasant experience on foot. Given the similarities in design inspiration, cushioning technology, and target market, the ABZORB 2010 is stepping into a segment already well-catered for by the successful 2002R. Therefore, the unique design elements and any subtle differences in comfort and overall feel will likely be key in setting the ABZORB 2010 apart and carving out its own place within New Balance's extensive range.

ABZORB 2010 Versus the 1906R

The New Balance 1906R is another prominent model that shares a retro running-inspired aesthetic with the ABZORB 2010, also drawing heavily from the design language of the noughties. Like the ABZORB 2010, the 1906R features ABZORB SBS cushioning, specifically in the heel, contributing to its overall comfort. Notably, the 1906R shares its sole unit with the New Balance 2002R, which is known for providing a comfortable ride for a wide range of wearers.

User feedback frequently highlights the 1906R's suitability for all-day comfort, making it a popular choice for everyday wear and lifestyle purposes. Similar to the 2002R, the 1906R has also established itself as a sought-after lifestyle trainer within the New Balance lineup.

The presence of the 1906R as another well-received model in the retro running category with comparable cushioning technology means the ABZORB 2010 will face some friendly competition within New Balance's own family. In this context, the specific design details, the overall silhouette, and any subtle differences in the comfort profile will likely be key factors that differentiate the ABZORB 2010 and influence what you lot decide to go for.

Table 2: New Balance ABZORB 2010 vs. Key Competitor Models

Final Thoughts and Our Recommendations

The New Balance ABZORB 2010 steps onto the scene as a compelling new addition to the brand's lifestyle trainer offerings, successfully blending design elements from New Balance's rich past with a contemporary look that chimes with current trends. The inclusion of the well-established ABZORB cushioning technology suggests a commitment to providing a comfortable experience for everyday wear. However, initial reviews show a bit of a mixed bag, with some folks having reservations about the comfort level when compared to other premium New Balance models that use different cushioning systems. The shoe's design, which nods to the 900 and 1000 series while adding modern touches, has generally been well-received, although personal preferences regarding its chunkiness and overall aesthetic do vary.

For those of you considering a pair, there are a few things to keep in mind. If maximum plushness and a super soft underfoot feel are top of your list, you might find that exploring New Balance models equipped with Fresh Foam or FuelCell technology could be a better fit. However, if the retro-modern design of the ABZORB 2010 really catches your eye, and if you've had positive experiences with ABZORB cushioning in the past, then this new model is definitely worth a look for your daily wear.

Given the mixed feedback on the shoe's fit and overall comfort, we'd strongly recommend trying the ABZORB 2010 on in a shop before you commit to buying. This will give you a proper feel for the fit and comfort level, making sure you're happy with your decision. It's also worth considering the shoe's price point of $160 USD in relation to other New Balance models that offer similar features and comfort levels, such as the 2002R and 1906R, so you can make an informed choice based on your individual needs and budget.

To wrap it up, the New Balance ABZORB 2010 represents a stylish and forward-thinking take on the brand's heritage, offering a familiar yet updated design language. While its comfort might be perceived differently depending on your personal preferences and how it compares to other New Balance technologies, it stands as a solid contender in the competitive world of retro-inspired lifestyle trainers, likely to appeal to those seeking a blend of classic New Balance DNA with a contemporary edge.