Laceless is even more charming: New Balance drops the 204V Mary Jane runners, plus the 204L in new linen shades

Once July arrives, you naturally want to switch to lighter, more breathable shoes. When getting dressed each day, a pair of sneakers with a retro feel that are also easy to slip on and off can save plenty of pre-departure indecision. New Balance has surprised fans with the 204V, a new take on its hugely popular low-profile 204L. It incorporates the on-trend Mary Jane element and will launch first in Hong Kong, ahead of anywhere else in Asia.

The easy appeal of going laceless: Meet the new 204V

The Mary Jane style that has swept the fashion scene in recent years has been cleverly translated into a street-ready running shoe. The new 204V’s most appealing detail is its bold departure from the fuss of traditional laces in favor of a minimalist hook-and-loop slip-on design. The change makes them easy to put on and take off in seconds, while giving the otherwise sporty silhouette a touch of laid-back, carefree femininity.

The 204V comes in three playful candy-inspired shades: gray-green, off-white, and blue, priced at HK$ 899 / NT$ 3,650.

A closer look at the upper reveals soft, fuzzy suede panels at the toe, paired with large sections of breathable mesh. The combination gives the solid-color upper added dimension while balancing the breathability and polished feel needed for summer.

A classic retro silhouette that never goes out of style: New 204L colorways

Of course, if you prefer classic, elongated lines for everyday wear, the ever-popular 204L has new updates as well. This signature style, based on 1970s running shoes, has successfully crossed gender and style boundaries, while its dimensional silhouette has long earned praise for flattering the proportions of the legs.

For the new season, the 204L comes in three fresh, understated new shades: linen, gray-white, and gray-silver, all priced at HK$ 899 / NT$ 3,650. At this price point, its versatility and quality have always stood out. Pair it with sharp wide-leg suit pants or a casual pleated miniskirt, and it adds another layer to the overall look.

A street-style formula with perfect chemistry: Create your own look with Y2K mixing and matching

Launching alongside the shoes is a collection of loose-fitting unisex apparel that breaks down gender boundaries. For styling, try layering boldly with different patterns, such as retro stripes paired with a high-saturation top underneath, then finish with a pair of hook-and-loop 204Vs. It’s the perfect way to bring out Y2K’s sweet-and-cool personality.

If you’re still deciding which style to choose, the hook-and-loop 204V is, personally, a safe yet eye-catching option. In recent seasons, major brands have been softening and sweetening sneaker silhouettes, and the 204V sits right at the intersection of softness and strength. It has the comfort foundation of a running shoe along with the romantic character of a Mary Jane, making it more fun to style than an ordinary sneaker.

Both new styles officially launched in Hong Kong on July 6, 2026. From July 9 to 26, spend HK$ 1,500 at designated stores in Hong Kong or on the official website to receive a limited-edition umbrella. If you’d like to add a new pair to your summer shoe closet, stop by a store this weekend to try them on and find a new street-style pairing that suits you.

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