The New Balance 1906 “Primaloft Black Silver Metallic” (stylecode U1906ROE) is the winter version of a silhouette that was already performing well. A black base with silver metallic accents and a Primaloft insulation layer designed to keep your feet warm. A well-thought-out pair. The only question is whether you actually need that insulation in practice.
The 1906R is the reissue of an early-2000s runner and has grown into one of New Balance’s strongest modern silhouettes. Technical and layered, with signature N-ergy and ABZORB cushioning and that futuristic, semi-industrial upper. It’s the shoe for anyone who finds the 9060 a little too over-the-top but the 990 a little too conservative. The 1906 sits right in between, and that’s a comfortable place to be.
Black with a metallic sheen
This version keeps things dark and functional: a black base with silver metallic details that highlight its technical character. In practical terms, that’s the smartest approach — black can handle the city, rain and mud without immediately demanding attention. The metallic accents add just enough shine to keep the pair interesting under artificial light. Not a statement color, but a sensible one.
The Primaloft claim
The selling point here is the Primaloft insulation, a lightweight synthetic filling that retains warmth without becoming bulky. It sounds good, and for cold mornings, it’s a genuine plus. But be honest with yourself: if you’re mostly walking from the tram to the office, that insulation is more of a nice extra than a necessity. Buy this pair for the silhouette and cushioning, and consider the warmth a bonus — not the other way around.
What really impresses, though, is the comfort. The cushioning handles long days with ease, the fit is well executed, and the model feels comfortable straight out of the box. For anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet, the 1906 delivers. And because the silhouette is slimmer than the 9060, it pairs more easily with regular trousers without looking bulky. In practice, that makes the 1906 more versatile than the bolder models in the range.
The price tag
The 1906 sits in New Balance’s mid-range, and prices vary. The current starting price is [sz_price_from stylecode=”U1906ROE”]. Since multiple retailers stock this pair, it’s worth comparing — and the difference between the cheapest and most expensive seller is rarely insignificant.
That’s why Solezilla puts all retailers, current prices and sizes for the U1906ROE side by side. Current starting price: [sz_price_from stylecode=”U1906ROE”]. Compare your size and retailer before checking out, so you’re paying for the shoe rather than the store’s markup.