# Caramel-Colored Reflective Sneakers New Balance's 'Sweet Caramel' 2002R is Bold and Reflective By Colin Smith | Published 2022-03-09 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sweet-caramel-2002r References: [hypebeast](https://hypebeast.com/2022/3/new-balance-2002r-sweet-caramel-rain-cloud-release-information-hbx) & [hbx](https://hbx.com/men/brands/new-balance/2002r-5-sweet-caramel-rain-cloud?utm_source=hypebeast.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=mens-2019-8-3013-hypebeast-en-affiliates-owned&utm_content=text-placement-editorial-post) [New Balance](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2002r-sneaker-5) unveiled the 'Sweet Caramel 2002R,' a new colorway for its 2002R silhouette. This colorway features an abundance of caramel-colored fabric combined with a [metallic mesh](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/1906l-2), off-white colors, and reflective accents. The toe vamp and front sides of the upper feature a breathable mesh, while the remainder of the sneaker's body is covered in multi-layered caramel-colored pieces. On the top of the heel and the center of the upper, New Balance opted to place a reflective material that shines in the light, particularly at night time. The reflective part on the upper is the "N" logo that the brand often uses on its sneakers, though it is smaller and more boldly defined on this sneaker. The Sweet Caramel 2002R can be purchased from [HBX's](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/human-made-drop) online store for approximately $156 USD. Image Credit: New Balance ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.6/10 - Popularity: 73% | Activity: 55% | Freshness: 11% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Hip Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/hipfashion) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Reflective Sneakers:** Incorporating high-visibility materials into sneakers adds a functional element to a fashion staple. - **Bold Colorways:** Designing sneakers with bold, unconventional color schemes can create standout products that appeal to a unique audience. - **Breathable Materials:** Exploring new materials and incorporating them into footwear designs can lead to improved comfort and functionality for consumers. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Athletic Footwear:** Incorporating reflective and breathable materials into athletic footwear can enhance functionality and improve safety during nighttime workouts. - **Fashion:** Designing bold and unconventional colorways can attract fashion forward consumers who are looking for unique and eye-catching accessories. - **Materials Science:** Researching and developing new materials for use in footwear can lead to innovative designs that improve comfort and durability for consumers. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Bright Colorblocking Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2002r-sneaker-5.md) - [Bright Tonal Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/green-suede.md) - [Blue Tonal Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sky-blue-colorway-1.md) - [Earthy Tonal Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/olive-and-black.md) - [Premium Leather Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2002r-leather.md) - [Cool-Tonal LIfestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/abzorb-2000.md) - [Retro Vibrant Detailed Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-balance-1000-2.md) - [Metallic-Tinged Mesh Loafers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/1906l-2.md) - [Rose-Hued Dad Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-balance-1906r-rose-sugar.md)