New Balance's Minimalist RC42 Sneakers Are on Sale for Only $52
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In This Story
Why We Love This Deal
New Balance’s RC42 traces its lineage back to the brand’s '70s training and racing shoes, an era of athletic footwear built around low-profile designs and stripped-back construction. It's one of many recent novelty lifestyle drops from the 100-year-old brand, debuting in 2024 during Junya Watanabe’s S/S 2024 Paris Fashion Week show, capitalizing on the hype around retro running shoes. And while the trend may be here to stay, at least for right now, this shoe might not be.
The $110 New Balance RC42 Sneakers are on mega sale during Joe’s New Balance Outlet’s Extra 30% off event. They have an initial discount to $70, and the extra 30% off brings the price down to $52. This sale is only for the white and blue colorway, but all sizes (except for 14) are in stock. The sale lasts through May 3, so get a pair while you still can.
New Balance RC42 Sneakers, $52 (was $110) at Joe's New Balance Outlet
What Shoppers Should Know
- Upper: Suede and mesh
- Insole: Removable padded insole
- Outsole: Rubber
- Best For: Everyday wear, running-inspired streetwear, minimalist looks, Samba alternative
The RC42 is about as uncluttered as a New Balance shoe gets because it’s low to the ground, has minimal paneling, and a suede-mesh upper that’s clean and breathable. That low-profile design gives it the versatility that chunkier heritage runners can’t deliver, and a look that’s easier to style with. If the 480s are the understated classic, the RC42s are for those who want something even cleaner.
Speaking of the 480s, they’re also on sale for about $50 at the moment, so it’s worth comparing the two. The 480s have more history and that New Balance look, while the RC42s are a little more niche and something other fashion-minded people will appreciate.
Related: New Balance's 'Cool' and 'Comfortable' 480 Sneakers Are on Sale for Only $49
What Shoppers Are Saying
There’s only one review at JNBO (which is five stars), but there are many more on New Balance’s site. One helpful reviewer said, “Never expected that it would be this stylish yet very comfortable.” A second shopper wrote they were even comfortable “after walking around 9 hours every day.”
Adidas’ iconic Sambas likely played a part in this inspiration for the RC42s, and some even prefer the latter: “I like the sleeker look of these and IMO are better looking on than a Samba.” This same shopper also wrote, “If you're looking for something Samba-like that isn't being worn by everyone, you're on the right track.”
The New Balance RC42 Sneakers can be yours for $52, but the brand’s lifestyle silhouettes sell out quite fast on the outlet, so now’s the time to get a pair before sizes run out.