New Balance’s 1906L “Red Croc” Has Me Feeling Some Type of Way

Confession time: I’ve got a sneaker problem. My closet is basically a graveyard of impulse purchases that my wife rolls her eyes at whenever I bring home yet another box. “They’re different,” I always insist. “Look at the colorway!” She’s not buying it anymore. But guys, the upcoming New Balance 1906L “Red Croc” might just be worth sleeping on the couch for a few nights.

I first spotted these beauties while doom-scrolling through sneaker forums at 2 AM last night (as one does when they should definitely be sleeping instead). Let me tell you – I nearly spilled my midnight cereal all over my keyboard. These aren’t just another shoe; they’re basically wearable art that somehow manages to bridge that impossible gap between sneakerhead culture and grown-up style.

When Sneakers and Loafers Had a Really Good-Looking Baby

So what’s the deal with the 1906L anyway? New Balance has been quietly killing it with their hybrid designs lately, and this loafer-sneaker mashup is proof they’re not afraid to color outside the lines. I’ve been watching this silhouette evolve, but this “Red Croc” iteration set for 2025 is taking things to a whole new level.

Picture this: a deep, rich burgundy-red patent leather upper that catches the light just right. It reminds me of that vintage leather jacket my uncle used to wear that made him look like the coolest guy in any room. The croc-embossed texture gives it this luxurious vibe that most sneakers can only dream of achieving. Honestly, they look expensive. Like, “I’ve got my life together” expensive, which is exactly the illusion I’m trying to maintain these days.

The contrasting red TPU heel counter details add just enough sportiness to remind you that yes, these are still New Balance, the brand that somehow became cool again while no one was looking. I remember when NB was what my dad wore to mow the lawn. Now look at us – fighting over limited drops like they’re the last slice of pizza.

Not Just Another Pretty Face

Let’s talk comfort, because I’m firmly in the “life’s too short for uncomfortable shoes” camp after a regrettable incident with some leather dress shoes at my cousin’s wedding. The dance floor claimed another victim that day, friends.

The 1906L borrows from its sneaker cousin, the 1906R, with that black foam midsole that promises to make walking feel like you’re bouncing on tiny clouds. The rubber outsole means you won’t be slipping around like a newborn deer on ice during those surprise rain showers either.

I’ve tried on previous versions of the 1906L, and I gotta say, they nail that sweet spot between support and style. Last summer, I wore a pair to three different events in one weekend – brunch with the in-laws, a friend’s gallery opening, and even a casual Friday at the office. Got compliments at all three, which is basically the triple crown of footwear success.

The Small Details That Make All the Difference

New Balance knows that the devil’s in the details. The 1906L logo on the heel is subtle but distinctive – not screaming “look at my expensive shoes” but more whispering “yeah, I know what I’m doing.” The insole branding with those black, red, and white details is just *chef’s kiss* perfect.

What I really appreciate is that these come in unisex sizing. My partner and I have definitely had “who wore it better” moments with previous New Balance releases. (For the record, she always wins, but don’t tell her I admitted that.)

Where Do These Fit in Your Rotation?

Here’s the thing about the 1906L Red Croc – they’re versatile as heck. Imagine them with some dark jeans and a simple white tee. Now picture them with some tailored trousers and an untucked button-down for dinner. They even work with shorts when you’re feeling brave.

I’ve been trying to justify adding these to my collection since I saw them, and I think I’ve got it: they’re not just another sneaker. They’re basically three shoes in one – a dress shoe, a casual loafer, and a comfortable sneaker. That’s basically saving money when you think about it. At least that’s what I’ll tell my wife.

The Waiting Game

The hardest part? We’ve got to wait until 2025 for these beauties to drop. That’s practically forever in sneaker years. But good things come to those who wait, and I’ve already set about seventeen calendar reminders so I don’t miss the release.

Will they be worth the wait? Based on what I’ve seen, absolutely. New Balance has been consistently delivering lately, and these Red Crocs look like they’ll continue that tradition. Just maybe don’t tell my wife I’m already planning another sneaker purchase… for next year.

Anyone else counting down the days, or is it just me?