The COMME des GARÇONS HOMME x New Balance 1890A makes its strongest impression by refusing to catch your attention instantly. The raised, curved build belongs to moccasins, while the sculpted sole underneath comes from New Balance’s Y2K running catalogue. That meeting of unconventional design elements gives this collaboration its appeal: smart enough to suggest tailoring, with enough comfort and support underfoot thanks to its midsole.

First previewed at Paris Men’s Fashion Week in January, the COMME des GARÇONS HOMME x New Balance 1890A is ready to bring that tension. The 1890A pairs a moccasin-style upper, defined by curved stitching around the toe, with the sole of the original New Balance 2002 running shoe. CdG HOMME’s restrained colours let the construction carry the design rather than burying it beneath graphics.

Black/Charcoal is the quieter option. Its dark upper and sole bring the different sections close together visually, making texture and stitching more noticeable than colour blocking. Sneaker News describes leather and suede, while the HOMME shop announcement at Shibuya PARCO specifies black nubuck, a leather with a finely buffed surface. That difference in material descriptions remains unresolved, although both point towards a textured leather treatment.

Beige/Orange exposes more of the shoe’s character. The tan-toned upper makes the curved toe seam easier to follow, while orange across the sole creates a clear division between the moccasin-inspired top and athletic base. It is the more expressive choice, particularly if the hybrid construction is what draws you to the model.

Underneath, ABZORB cushioning and a structured heel retain the running-inspired foundation. Those features explain the substantial base, but they should not be mistaken for a firsthand verdict on comfort. Visually, the appeal lies in how that weight balances the cleaner upper: the shoe keeps its sneaker proportions even as the forefoot suggests something dressier.
Both colourways are reported to drop on 6th November 2026 via COMME des GARÇONS and select stockists, including Dover Street Market. UK retail pricing and local availability remain unconfirmed.