Perhaps no other athletic footwear brand has cracked the code of balancing retro design with new innovation like New Balance has.
Boston-based brands Abzorb 1890, Abzorb 2000, Abzorb 2010, Gator Run and 204L sneakers are just a few of his recent successes and among them all, the 204L is arguably the most trending. And while there have been a few collaborations, most notably with Basketcase Gallery and Kith, it’s the model’s more accessible in-line styling that’s really driving interest in the 204L. But this week, the trending sneaker will receive another collaboration from Japanese fashion label Auralee.
The Auralee x New Balance 204L will release on Friday following Auralee’s exclusive pre-sale on May 22nd. The collaboration is offered in two contrasting colors: Ganache/Black Bean (style code U204L5I7) and Plaza Taupe/White Jade (style code U204L7YU).
In addition to clashing color combinations, the two shoes use different materials to create two completely different looks. The darker Ganache pair has a leather base with suede overlays, while the Plaza Taupe version covers a mesh base with a mix of suede, leather, and synthetics.
Auralee x New Balance 204L Plaza Taupe/White Jade (pair).
New Balance
Founded in 2015 by Japanese designer Ryota Iwai, Auralee has developed a loyal following for its emphasis on fabrics over minimalism and tailoring. The New Balance label collaboration kicked off in 2021 and has encompassed a variety of silhouettes including the popular 550, 2002R, and 1906R models.
As for the 204L, it was introduced by New Balance in July 2025 and quickly became an affordable alternative to the brand’s Miu Miu 530 SL sneaker, which has a similar shape, material and color.
Following its exclusive launch in Japan, the Auralee x New Balance 204L collaboration will release on Friday from newbalance.com at 10am ET and will also be available at select New Balance retailers. Prices are set at $130 each.

Auralee x New Balance 204L Ganache/Black Bean (a pair).
New Balance

Auralee x New Balance 204L Ganache/Black Bean (lateral).
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Auralee x New Balance 204L Ganache/Black Bean (above).
New Balance

Auralee x New Balance 204L Plaza Taupe/White Jade (lateral).
New Balance

Auralee x New Balance 204L Plaza Taupe/White Jade (above).
New Balance
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