New Balance continues its annual Lunar New Year series with a six-shoe “Year of the Horse” collection scheduled for early 2026. The release follows the brand’s established approach to zodiac-themed footwear, where material choices, color direction, and detailing align with each year’s animal symbol. After presenting four models for the Year of the Snake in 2025, New Balance expands the scope for 2026 with a broader lineup that spans performance-driven silhouettes and long-standing lifestyle staples.
SNEAKERS
The collection centers on six sneakers across four model families. Leading the range is the ABZORB 2000, which adopts a predominantly black upper built around a technical construction. Silver and red accents interrupt the darker base, introducing contrast through hardware-like elements and branding details. The model leans into a late-1990s and early-2000s performance reference, reinforced by its layered structure and visible cushioning system.
Alongside it, the ABZORB 2010 offers a related yet distinct direction. This silhouette presents a brown and silver color composition that shifts the mood toward a more textural expression. A notable feature appears at the tongue, where a textured finish adds depth to the upper. The model draws from retro performance cues while maintaining a cleaner profile than its 2000 counterpart.
The 204L arrives in two thematic versions that continue the collection’s material focus. One pair features a brown upper, while the second opts for white. Both versions incorporate pony hair detailing at the heel tab, a direct nod to the collection’s zodiac reference. An all-black sole anchors each design, grounding the upper treatments and keeping the silhouettes cohesive across colorways.
Rounding out the footwear offering is the 574, one of New Balance’s most recognizable models. For the Year of the Horse collection, the 574 appears in two monochromatic executions. One pair uses off-white from collar to sole, while the other applies black across the same areas. In both cases, red branding elements provide the only visual interruption.
Beyond footwear, New Balance extends the Year of the Horse concept into apparel. The accompanying range includes padded jackets and corduroy pants designed to align with the sneakers’ materials and tones.
The Year of the Horse collection will be available through New Balance and atmos. With six sneakers spanning multiple design categories, the release reflects New Balance’s ongoing investment in Lunar New Year storytelling through footwear and apparel.
Name: New Balance ABZORB 2000, ABZORB 2010, 204L and 574 “Year of the Horse”
SKU: U200011D, U201020Q, U204L3K9, U204L8OV, U5742EB and U5748HM
MSRP: ¥15,950 JPY to ¥25,300 JPY (approx. $102 USD to $162 USD)
Release Date: January 1, 2026
Where to Buy: atmos and New Balance
