Complete Review of Aime Leon Dore New Balance 860v2

When it comes to sneakers that fuse performance heritage with fashion-forward design, the Aime Leon Dore New Balance 860v2 is one of the most exciting pairs you can own. Known for their clean aesthetic and cultural influence, ALD continues to collaborate with New Balance in ways that feel timeless yet fresh. The 860v2 is no exception, offering the perfect balance between retro running DNA and elevated streetwear styling.

In this complete review, we’ll explore the sneaker’s design, comfort, and performance while breaking down how it fits into the streetwear landscape of 2025. We’ll also share styling ideas and explain why this pair has become a must-have alongside other wardrobe staples like ALD Hoodies, ALD Tees, and ALD Jackets.

The Story Behind the Aime Leon Dore 860v2

To understand the Aime Leon Dore New Balance 860v2, it helps to look at where it comes from. The original 860v2 debuted in the early 2010s as a performance running shoe, designed for long-distance runners who needed durability and stability. What made it stand out was its chunky build, layered mesh, and early embrace of technical aesthetics.

Fast forward to today, and Teddy Santis, founder of Aime Leon Dore and creative director at New Balance Made in USA, saw an opportunity to reintroduce the model not as a running shoe but as a lifestyle icon. By leaning into the sneaker’s nostalgic performance look and blending it with ALD’s signature muted tones, the 860v2 was reborn as a staple for modern streetwear.

This collaboration is part of why Aime Leon Dore has earned such a strong reputation in sneakers. By taking forgotten or underrated silhouettes and reframing them for fashion, ALD shows that heritage and style can coexist without compromise.

Why the Aime Leon Dore 860v2 Stands Out

What separates the Aime Leon Dore 860v2 from other sneakers is its unique ability to blend retro performance design with everyday wearability. The shoe’s layered mesh and leather construction immediately give it a vintage vibe, while the cushioned midsole ensures that it’s not just a style piece but also a functional sneaker.

Unlike bulkier silhouettes, the 860v2 is surprisingly lightweight and breathable, making it great for everyday wear. The muted color palettes ALD chose—think creams, silvers, and soft neutrals—add to its versatility. These tones pair perfectly with streetwear staples, whether it’s a laid-back fit with ALD Hoodies or a clean summer look built around ALD Tees.

The 860v2 also rides the wave of technical sneakers gaining traction in 2025. While chunky “dad shoes” have been trending for years, the 860v2 brings a sleeker, more wearable take on that look. It nods to performance gear without feeling overly futuristic, making it an easy choice for anyone wanting to stay ahead in streetwear fashion.

How to Style the Aime Leon Dore 860v2

One of the best things about the Aime Leon Dore 860v2 is how effortlessly it fits into different wardrobes. Its neutral palette makes it a natural match for a wide range of outfits, from casual streetwear to slightly elevated fits.

For a classic streetwear look, pair the 860v2 with relaxed trousers, a crisp ALD Tee, and a lightweight ALD Jacket. The sneaker’s design adds a layer of depth to the outfit without overshadowing it.

If you’re leaning into a more sport-inspired style, opt for joggers and an oversized ALD Hoodie. The 860v2’s running DNA pairs seamlessly with athletic pieces, giving your fit a nostalgic yet modern feel.

For something elevated but casual, style the sneaker with tailored pants and a clean button-up. The shoe’s muted tones keep it versatile, while its technical look adds personality to an otherwise refined outfit.

The key is to let the sneaker’s subtle sophistication shine. Unlike flashier shoes, the 860v2 thrives when styled with minimal yet thoughtfully chosen pieces.

The Aime Leon Dore 860v2 in Today’s Fashion Trends

As sneaker culture evolves, one of the biggest shifts we’re seeing in 2025 is the embrace of archival performance sneakers. Instead of relying on futuristic designs or ultra-hyped collaborations, brands are pulling from the past and reintroducing models that feel authentic. The Aime Leon Dore 860v2 is a perfect example of this trend.

Its technical mesh overlays, metallic accents, and cushioned midsole tap into the nostalgia of early 2010s running shoes while delivering a timeless aesthetic. Streetwear fans who grew up during that era see the sneaker as a stylish throwback, while younger consumers view it as something fresh and unique.

This sneaker also reflects Aime Leon Dore’s broader design philosophy: create products that feel rooted in culture while elevating everyday wear. Just as their ALD Jackets reimagine vintage outerwear with a modern twist, the 860v2 takes a running shoe and transforms it into a style staple.

Why the Aime Leon Dore 860v2 Is Worth the Investment

At a time when sneaker trends change fast, the Aime Leon Dore 860v2 offers staying power. It’s not just another pair that will collect dust in your closet after a season—it’s a shoe you can wear year after year.

The craftsmanship alone makes it worth the investment. From the premium materials to the careful color blocking, every detail reflects ALD’s reputation for quality and authenticity. Unlike sneakers that prioritize hype over substance, the 860v2 feels built to last both physically and stylistically.

It also works across multiple seasons and fits, whether you’re layering in colder months with ALD Hoodies or dressing light in summer with ALD Tees. That versatility ensures you’ll get plenty of wear out of it, making it one of the smartest sneaker purchases in 2025.

Final Thoughts

The Aime Leon Dore New Balance 860v2 is more than just a collaboration—it’s a reflection of where sneaker culture is heading. By reviving a performance runner and reimagining it for lifestyle wear, ALD and New Balance have created something that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking.

This sneaker is for the streetwear fan who values subtle style, heritage, and versatility. Whether you’re pairing it with an oversized ALD Hoodie, keeping things clean with a simple ALD Tee, or layering it under an ALD Jacket, the 860v2 adapts to your wardrobe with ease.

In a world filled with sneakers chasing hype, the 860v2 proves that the best designs are the ones that don’t need to scream for attention. They simply fit into your life—and that’s exactly why the Aime Leon Dore 860v2 has become one of the most important sneakers of 2025.