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With GORE-TEX, New Balance’s Best Dad Shoe Is Literally Built to Protect

Written by Morgan Smith in Sneakers

New Balance's "Protection Pack" is easily one of the brand's best sets of sneakers. Thanks to a new GORE-TEX update, the famous dad shoes just got better.

Wrapped in GORE-TEX, New Balance's 2002 "Protection Pack" sneakers are built to last through rain, snow, and most yucky wet weather.

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The high-tech material helps the water slide right off, keeping wearers dry and warm. And even though it blocks out elements, it still lets air flow for breathability.

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Consider the classic 2002s literal protectors now.

In addition to the GORE-TEX touch, fans can also count on the familiar "Refined Future" look, with pre-torn suede layered over breezy mesh and smooth leather moments.

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The deconstructed design famously debuted on the 2002R sneakers in 2021. Since then, New Balance has applied the popular aesthetic to other models, including its sneaker-mule hybrids and the techy 1906.

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Now, the OG "Protection Pack" shoe is back and ready for whatever the day brings.

The GORE-TEX "Protection Pack" comes in three colorways, which are now available at stores like Titolo and AFEW for around $210.

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Morgan Smith

Morgan Smith is a style writer at Highsnobiety, born in Virginia and currently based out of New York. If it's a cool, new sneaker or super nice clothing item (or collection), Morgan has more than likely written about it. Morgan has worked in the fashion industry since 2018, writing for publications, managing social media, leading her own sneaker-focused platform, and interviewing fashion figures like Joe Freshgoods and Dapper Dan. Morgan's writing spans several topics, including runway show coverage and trend pieces. Sneakers, celebrity style, pop culture moments, and emerging fashion brands remain her faves. When Morgan isn't glued to her laptop, you can catch her binging the latest season of "Love is Blind" or obsessing over the new Rihanna 'fit that just dropped. By the way, Morgan interviewed the bad gal, too.

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