New Balance 992 Mushroom/Moonrock

The cool dad sneaker now comes in a mushroom colorway

Release date: March 27, 2025

Price: $210

 Although it was made globally famous by billionaire and tech genius extraordinaire, Steve Jobs, the New Balance 992 is considered to be the ultimate cool dad shoe. It holds its own as a streetwear staple with a chunky build and next-level comfort and New Balance keeps it fresh with constant colorway drops and high-profile collaborations. Expect more of the same heat this year, with core colors, fresh collabs from brands like KITH, and new takes from NB creative director and Aimé Leon Dore founder Teddy Santis.

Design

The latest release, the Mushroom/Moonrock edition, sticks to New Balance’s signature tonal aesthetic but switches things up with texture. The upper combines nubuck, hairy suede, and smooth suede layered over a breathable mesh base. A reflective NB logo hits both sides, while the tongue gets a cut-out window with horizontal lines instead of the usual synthetic underlay. Most of the shoe leans into the grey "Moonrock" shade, while the "Mushroom" hue pops on the tongue and heel.

If you’ve been paying attention, you’ve seen this colorway theme across NB’s latest 997 and 990v6 drops.

Performance

If you’re looking for a high-performance shoe, and you’ve set your views on a pair of New Balances, we’d recommend performance-focused New Balance models like the Fresh Foam or FuelCell series. But if you’re in it for daddy vibes and a lifestyle sneaker built for everyday comfort, the NB 992 is for you. The ABZORB cushioning provides great shock absorption, making it ideal for walking or long hours on your feet.

Styling your New Balance 992 Mushroom/Moonrock

We’d be inclined to wear these kicks in a dress-up kind of way with straight-leg trousers and a relaxed blazer, which would combine into a comfortable, effortless, yet quirky vibe. But the New Balance 992 is the kind of sneaker that fits into any rotation. If you’d like to keep it streetwear simple, wear it with baggy jeans and a hoodie, or go for tech pants and a vintage tee to tap the retro appeal. Lean into the Teddy Santis essence by sticking to neutral tones, earthy shades, greys, or monochrome hues.

Why the 992 Stays Winning

The 992 isn’t just a sneaker—it’s a piece of sneaker history. Since its debut, it’s been a go-to for collectors, with the M992GR being one of the most sought-after versions. The Made in USA line keeps things premium, and the collabs are legendary—think JJJJound, WTAPS, and Ronnie Fieg’s work with KITH.

About the New Balance and Teddy Santis collaboration

Teddy Santis, the founder of Aimé Leon Dore, has been leading New Balance’s MADE in USA line since 2021. He is known for his vintage looks and premium materials. He favors neutral tones, and models like the 990 series, 992, and 993 have dropped in earthy hues.

Availability and price

The New Balance 992 Mushroom/Moonrock colorway drops March 27 at New Balance stores, online, and select retailers. Price: $210.