The Joe Freshgoods x New Balance 1890 “Naughty Things” pushes New Balance deeper into futuristic territory while keeping one foot planted in late ‘90s nostalgia. Known for bringing emotion and storytelling into every collaboration, Joe Freshgoods gives the ABZORB1890 a loud, expressive identity inspired by the colourful music video era that shaped a generation.
At first glance, the silhouette feels unlike anything else in the current New Balance lineup. The upper combines breathable mesh underlays with sweeping TPU overlays that create a wave-like structure across the sneaker. That layered construction pulls inspiration from archival runners like the 890v3, though the final result feels much more experimental and fashion-forward. Reflective detailing scattered throughout the upper adds extra depth under different lighting conditions, giving the shoe even more personality after dark.
Underfoot, the familiar comfort of New Balance remains intact. The ABZORB midsole absorbs impact through a mix of cushioning and compression resistance, helping the sneaker feel soft and stable during all-day wear. Paired with the chunky sole borrowed from the 2002 series, the ride balances comfort with a distinctly tech-runner aesthetic.
Joe Freshgoods branding appears throughout the design alongside classic New Balance and ABZORB logos, tying the collaboration together without overloading the silhouette. The “Naughty Things” colourway also leans heavily into contrast, shine, and texture, making every angle feel slightly different from the last.