Weather-ready trainers often lean towards muted colours, but The Apartment x New Balance 2010 GORE-TEX “Kingfisher” takes a brighter route. Blue and teal dominate this collaboration, bringing a bird-inspired theme to the modern dad shoe. The bold colours and water-resistant uppers already make this New Balance 2010 fantastic, but the subtle storytelling between Tokyo and New York gives the colourway more depth.

The Tokyo retailer has long drawn inspiration from New York culture. Here, the kingfisher serves as a reference between both places, translating its plumage into blue suede overlays and a teal foundation. White sections and bright orange hits break up the saturated upper, helping the individual panels be easy on the eyes. The suede adds texture and visual depth, giving the blue a softer appearance than a glossy synthetic finish would. It is an expressive combination, with enough separation between colours to keep the construction clear.

That treatment suits the NB 2010’s proportions. Introduced in 2025, the model is a contemporary design drawing on New Balance’s 2000s running footwear. Its enlarged, segmented sole makes the cushioning part of its appearance, continuing the brand’s habit of turning functional components into recognisable design features. The “2010” name can suggest an archive revival, but this silhouette belongs to a newer generation.

On the “Kingfisher”, dark navy ABZORB cushioning units anchor the brighter upper, while an orange support piece beneath the midfoot introduces a sharp accent. Carrying colour into the sole makes the collaboration feel considered from top to bottom. GORE-TEX construction adds protection against wet weather, giving buyers another reason to consider it beyond the palette.

For anyone choosing between this and a quieter New Balance release, the deciding factor is straightforward: these colours make the shoe the focal point of an outfit. Its layered shape provides plenty to look at without requiring an explanation of the collaboration.
The Apartment x New Balance 2010 GORE-TEX “Kingfisher” is reported to drop on 31 October 2026, exclusively via The Apartment and select retail partners. UK pricing and availability remain unconfirmed.