Introduction
This article is the New Balance WRPD Runner review, based on my honest impressions after wearing them for one years.
Review Premise
This review is ultimately about one thing—comfort.
I often walk more than 20,000 steps a day for work. If my shoes can’t handle that load, the soles of my feet start to hurt and the fatigue builds up fast. That’s why comfort is the number-one factor when I choose a pair of shoes.
Everything I write here comes from long-term, real-world use. These are not guesses or first impressions—they’re observations based on actually wearing the shoes over time.
When choosing footwear, I focus on three key points:
If even one of these is missing, walking 20,000 steps a day becomes almost impossible.
Cushioning
Essential for reducing stress on the feet and knees.
Responsiveness
Important for smooth walking. It converts impact into forward momentum, which makes a big difference over long distances.
Stability
Crucial for reducing wasted energy. For example, if the heel support is weak, you end up using unnecessary effort with every step.
I’ll also compare this pair with other New Balance models I’ve actually worn in the past.
Here are the models I’ve used previously.
• CM996
• M2040 V1
• M998
• WR993
• MR993
• M990 V5
• 2002R
• M990V3
• 991v2
• 990v6
What is the New Balance WRPD Runner?
The WRPD Runner is a sneaker designed with a concept of taking familiar shapes and deliberately distorting them into sculptural, near-futuristic forms, so they fit into modern fashion spaces.
It made a splash when it debuted on Auralee’s runway at Paris Fashion Week in June 2023.
This model is part of the SHIFT series, which began in 2020. The SHIFT series reimagines New Balance archive models from the 1970s to 1990s with a modern twist.
Previous releases in the series include the 327, 57/40, XC-72, and 90/60.
Appearance After one Years
Here’s how they look after One years of wear.
Features of the WRPD Runner
FuelCell
This is a cushioning made by adding nitrogen to polyurethane, achieving both strong rebound and lightness.
Its high responsiveness makes every step feel easier and more effortless.
As of 2025, it’s the latest cushioning also used in New Balance’s flagship 990 v6 model.
Medial Stability Post
This is a reinforcement piece built into the inside of the midfoot.
FuelCell cushioning can be a bit too soft, causing the foot to roll inward too much on landing.
The Medial Stability Post addresses this by using a firm material that helps prevent excessive inward roll.
Comfort
1. Cushioning
Top-notch cushioning.
As expected from FuelCell, it absorbs impact beautifully with every step.
You could even say it’s on the same level as the flagship 990 v6.
2. Responsiveness
The rebound is excellent too.
You can really feel the strength of FuelCell cushioning—it turns the impact of landing into forward momentum for your next step.
3. Stability
Slightly unstable. You can feel some side-to-side wobble.
The Medial Stability Post feels a bit too soft for my liking.
The 990 v6 uses ENCAP for its reinforcement, which provides a noticeably higher level of stability.
ENCAP Featured in the 990 v6
When actually handling and comparing the 990 v6’s ENCAP with the Medial Stability Post, it’s clear that the ENCAP is firmer.
Whether this is due to manufacturing costs or to create a distinction from the flagship model, I’m not sure—but I would have loved to see ENCAP used here.
That said, the slight instability is still within an acceptable range.
As someone who regularly wears the 990 v6, it’s noticeable, but I wouldn’t call it a major issue.
The Downsides of the WRPD Runner
I do think there’s a durability issue.
I’ve only worn them for about a year—around one time a week for work—and the forefoot outsole has started to peel slightly at the edges.
There’s also an issue that I often see in New Balance pairs made in Asia, so it might be unavoidable — but the peeling is still noticeable and a bit distracting.
The outsole durability is also on the weaker side.
Even with mostly indoor use, the rubber has already worn down slightly after a year of wearing them about three times a week.
This is likely because the WRPD Runner doesn’t use N-Durance, a material found in New Balance’s higher-end models.
It’s understandable, but the difference is noticeable.
Conclusion
These are excellent shoes that can easily handle walking 20,000 steps—thanks to the FuelCell cushioning, no doubt.
Even as someone who frequently wears the flagship 990 v6, I find them comfortable enough to wear without major complaints.
There are some durability issues, but considering the price, it’s understandable.
In fact, it’s impressive that a shoe at this price can deliver a feel so close to the flagship model.
On the downside, the bold design might make it a bit tricky to match with some outfits.
But if you’re not bothered by the looks, I’d definitely recommend giving them a try.
As of November 2025, I think this is the best value-for-money New Balance out there, and I hope you enjoy the comfort it offers.
Thank you for reading until the end, That’s all for this review.
If you have any questions, feel free to send me a DM or leave a comment.
Sayonara
