# Video Game-Inspired Hiking Sneakers New Balance Unveils Two New Versions of Its 2002R Sneaker By Niko Pajkovic | Published 2022-05-24 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2002rs References: [modern-notoriety](https://www.modern-notoriety.com/new-balance-2002r-hiking-m2002rwm-m2002rwl-release-date/?utm_source=feedly&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=new-balance-2002r-hiking-m2002rwm-m2002rwl-release-date) & [newbalance](https://www.newbalance.ca/) American footwear giant New Balance has unveiled two updated versions of its recently released [2002R](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2002r-sneaker-5) model in new hiking-themed colorways. Both silhouettes maintain the 2002R's core features, including its reinforced toe caps and hiking loop-style eyelets. However, the sneakers' overall looks have been transformed via all-new color schemes. The first new version reimagines the sneaker using a brown leather colorway with red laces. Meanwhile, the second iteration of the 2002R features suede uppers with pink and purple details. According to an [Instagram](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/m2002na) post by the company, the designer of the new silhouettes, Yue Wu, drew inspiration from the hiking boots worn by characters in the video game 'Animal Crossing: New Horizons.' Both versions of the 2002R are now available to purchase through [New Balance Korea](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/puflee-v2). Image Credit: New Balance ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.4/10 - Popularity: 54% | Activity: 36% | Freshness: 12% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Hiking-inspired Sneakers:** Designing sneakers that are inspired by hiking is a new trend for footwear companies to explore. - **Video Game Fashion:** Drawing inspiration from popular video games opens up new trend opportunities for fashion companies. - **Updated Classic Designs:** Creating updated versions of classic designs is a trend that footwear companies should take advantage of. ### Where This Applies - **Footwear Industry:** The footwear industry should explore the trend of designing hiking-inspired sneakers to stay relevant and attract new customers. - **Fashion Industry:** The fashion industry can capitalize on the trend of drawing inspiration from popular video games to create trendy and unique fashion pieces. - **Gaming Industry:** The gaming industry can collaborate with fashion and footwear companies to create new merchandising opportunities and reach new audiences. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Bright Colorblocking Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2002r-sneaker-5.md) - [Chromatic Suede Hiker Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aim-leon-dore-x-new-balance-rainier-low-pack.md) - [Bright Tonal Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/green-suede.md) - [Game Console Sneaker Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/playstationinspired-sneaker.md) - [Hybrid Slip-On Textural Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/m2002na.md) - [Video Game Console Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-air-snes.md) - [Weather-Ready Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/goretex-protection-pack.md) - [Earthy Tonal Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/olive-and-black.md) - [Trail-Ready Hiking Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/air-max-plus-hiker-boot.md)