990 V6 Sizing
I’ve worn various versions of the 990 over the years. I still wear a grey V2 for yard work and a solid black V5 for airline business travel. All of my other dress shoes and boots have always been an 8 1/2 D. For my 990 shoes I’ve always had to go to a 9. An 8 1/2 was too small, while the 9 was just a tad larger than I prefer but OK. On the New Balance web site for the V6 it states, “ Description:This model runs large, you may consider ordering down from your normal size.” So I went to a store today and tried on the 8 1/2. PERFECT. Plus, the fuelcell cushioning is great - just had left knee replacement surgery two weeks ago and these shoes feel great. Purchased the grey 990 V6 and changed out the laces from the white to the grey laces that were included with the ... MoreI’ve worn various versions of the 990 over the years. I still wear a grey V2 for yard work and a solid black V5 for airline business travel. All of my other dress shoes and boots have always been an 8 1/2 D. For my 990 shoes I’ve always had to go to a 9. An 8 1/2 was too small, while the 9 was just a tad larger than I prefer but OK. On the New Balance web site for the V6 it states, “ Description:This model runs large, you may consider ordering down from your normal size.” So I went to a store today and tried on the 8 1/2. PERFECT. Plus, the fuelcell cushioning is great - just had left knee replacement surgery two weeks ago and these shoes feel great. Purchased the grey 990 V6 and changed out the laces from the white to the grey laces that were included with the shoes. I recommend the 990 V6.... Show more
Echo Tango
originally posted on newbalance.com
Bad experience
I had a really bad experience with this shoe. The ones I got were heavy, uncomfortable, felt like army boots and the extra cost of better inserts seem to make it worse. Even little stuff is bad, they squeak and the tread does not have good traction on certain smooth surfaces. In October I did the whole electronic Fit Analysis and purchased them with upgraded inserts, kept wearing them thinking it would take a while for my feet to get used to them. Months later they were actually painful to wear. My son gave me a pair of NB 574s and the difference was incredible; nice snug fit and very lightweight. Went back to the store and they said I should have returned them within 45 days, that was news to me. Again just a bad experience.... Show more
JohnMc
originally posted on newbalance.com
Completely different shoe with different fit.
Ordering a half size down may not fit. I'm comparing 990 version 6 in size 8.5 4e (extra wide) to 990 version 5 in size 9 4e.The new shoe appears to be a tad longer but is approximately the same length (even though it's a half size smaller). The toe is more pointed, it's narrower, and the toe box is much smaller. The arch also seems longer. I expect the new 9 4e would be wide enough, but too long. The 8.5 toe box is definitely too small for me. Also the new shoe is less padded. Less padding doesn't mean "worse", but the new tongue is missing the high density padding that I liked. The new sole is thicker, but not as spread out at the base. It's a fine shoe if it fits, but many people will be looking for the same fit as they had before, and they won't get it. IDK ... MoreOrdering a half size down may not fit. I'm comparing 990 version 6 in size 8.5 4e (extra wide) to 990 version 5 in size 9 4e.The new shoe appears to be a tad longer but is approximately the same length (even though it's a half size smaller). The toe is more pointed, it's narrower, and the toe box is much smaller. The arch also seems longer. I expect the new 9 4e would be wide enough, but too long. The 8.5 toe box is definitely too small for me. Also the new shoe is less padded. Less padding doesn't mean "worse", but the new tongue is missing the high density padding that I liked. The new sole is thicker, but not as spread out at the base. It's a fine shoe if it fits, but many people will be looking for the same fit as they had before, and they won't get it. IDK why New Balance would do such a thing.... Show more
dnet74
originally posted on newbalance.com
Great sole/midsole the rest needs work
The best three things of the Version 6 that standout from other versions; the sole has the best feel and support than any other version in the thirty years I have been wearing the 990's. The width, (I wear an 11.5 AA) in the forefoot area is a great fit, and the upper is extremely well built. Let's move on to the downfall of this shoe. The tongue has had great padding in past versions, this one has the inner fabric against your foot and the outer fabric that is exposed, absolutely nothing in between (I have added two layers of mole foam). Absolutely no padding at the opening against the bones of the ankle causing irritation and pain when the shoe is tied as needed. Very little padding at the collar and heal area. Last but not least for a $200.00 shoe not to have a ... MoreThe best three things of the Version 6 that standout from other versions; the sole has the best feel and support than any other version in the thirty years I have been wearing the 990's. The width, (I wear an 11.5 AA) in the forefoot area is a great fit, and the upper is extremely well built. Let's move on to the downfall of this shoe. The tongue has had great padding in past versions, this one has the inner fabric against your foot and the outer fabric that is exposed, absolutely nothing in between (I have added two layers of mole foam). Absolutely no padding at the opening against the bones of the ankle causing irritation and pain when the shoe is tied as needed. Very little padding at the collar and heal area. Last but not least for a $200.00 shoe not to have a combination last is simply unbelievable, while the forefoot my be AA the heal is a B width at best. In conclusion, the extra work New Balance put into the best sole ever applied to the 990 series shoe they left out in the other items listed above. If the Version 6 was built the way past versions were along with including the new sole/midsole this would be the best shoe ever produced by New Balance. The shoe is manufactured very well with high quality materials, just not enough of them. Instead it's only a two star shoe. This comes from a person that spent many years in the shoe business.... Show more
Tisch
originally posted on newbalance.com
I’m very disappointed with the 990V6.
For over 25 years, the New Balance 990 series has been my everyday shoe for casual wear in addition to exercise. I’ve enjoyed the consistent comfort, stability, and foot support this series delivered year after year. Recently I purchased the 990V6 and am very disappointed. It appears that New Balance has greatly cheapened the quality of this model. A couple of examples compared to the 990V5: The 990V does not have as much suede around the ankle or the heel. New Balance also removed the plastic ankle supports on 990V6. Based on those two changes, the 990V6 does not support my ankle nearly as well as previous models. I would have been ok paying more to make sure I can continue to buy a high-quality shoe. Instead, I believe New Balance will realize these cost-cutting ... MoreFor over 25 years, the New Balance 990 series has been my everyday shoe for casual wear in addition to exercise. I’ve enjoyed the consistent comfort, stability, and foot support this series delivered year after year. Recently I purchased the 990V6 and am very disappointed. It appears that New Balance has greatly cheapened the quality of this model. A couple of examples compared to the 990V5: The 990V does not have as much suede around the ankle or the heel. New Balance also removed the plastic ankle supports on 990V6. Based on those two changes, the 990V6 does not support my ankle nearly as well as previous models. I would have been ok paying more to make sure I can continue to buy a high-quality shoe. Instead, I believe New Balance will realize these cost-cutting measures will damage the brand and cause loyal 990V customers to find another brand.... Show more
Mark25
originally posted on newbalance.com
Just as good as the V5
My 990 v5s wore out and I've put off buying replacements because of all the scary reviews read, particularly about the sizing changing. I finally bit the bullet since I couldn't wait any longer and... the 990 v6 fit just like the v5 and feel the same too. The profile also doesn't look much different than the v5s either. The toe box does look narrower for 4e width, but it is only barely noticeable in fit. The length seems identical when compared with my v5. I cannot report on how well they will last, but my last pair lasted a year before I ripped a hole where my big sits - same thing that has happened to all my new balances for the past 4 years or so since they cut the quality in general. Still, these are the best sneakers I've found in my width so I'm happy with them.... Show more
davidboston2024
originally posted on newbalance.com
Long-time NB990 running shoe customer betrayed!
Since the inception of the NB 990 running shoe decades ago, I have easily purchased 40+ pairs. I have also purchased NB clothing and successfully encouraged friends and family to purchase both the shoes and the clothing. As a Type 1, insulin-dependent diabetic, my running shoes must fit and, until this most recent pair of NB 990V6, they always have...absolutely zero past problems. NB changed the construction of the shoe with a thinner tongue that is sewn differently into the shoe. The result has been that the tongue curls on the top part of my foot and it causes blisters when I run. Upon pointing this out to NB with photos & a detailed description of the problem, they told me to return the shoes and they would issue an "eGift" card (of an undetermined amount) I ... MoreSince the inception of the NB 990 running shoe decades ago, I have easily purchased 40+ pairs. I have also purchased NB clothing and successfully encouraged friends and family to purchase both the shoes and the clothing. As a Type 1, insulin-dependent diabetic, my running shoes must fit and, until this most recent pair of NB 990V6, they always have...absolutely zero past problems. NB changed the construction of the shoe with a thinner tongue that is sewn differently into the shoe. The result has been that the tongue curls on the top part of my foot and it causes blisters when I run. Upon pointing this out to NB with photos & a detailed description of the problem, they told me to return the shoes and they would issue an "eGift" card (of an undetermined amount) I could use to purchase another pair of shoes. Why would I want to purchase another pair of shoes that give me blisters? No one called me to really delve into the problem and offer suggestions regarding shoes that might fit properly. As a long-time, fiercely loyal NB customer, I felt betrayed. This company has changed and it's not been for the better! If this is your "best effort"...just refund my purchase price.... Show more
PJM32
originally posted on newbalance.com
Made in USA
The 990v6 has been divisive to long-time 990 fans. I personally love the new styling, which blends the more traditional 990 lifestyle vibe with a modern-day trainer aesthetic. What I love most about New Balance is the quality of their Made in USA line, this being the flagship shoe. I have a few other Made in USA models and the premium materials are very apparent on them, although with that, they are usually very sturdy and heavy shoes. These are lightweight and comfy. While there are nice materials (buttery-soft suede, 3M, etc.), these v6's don't seem to live up to the premium reputation of the 990 as much on first impression. I could be wrong and time will tell, but that was a little disappointing and I now understand the mixed feelings about v6 (being a departure ... MoreThe 990v6 has been divisive to long-time 990 fans. I personally love the new styling, which blends the more traditional 990 lifestyle vibe with a modern-day trainer aesthetic. What I love most about New Balance is the quality of their Made in USA line, this being the flagship shoe. I have a few other Made in USA models and the premium materials are very apparent on them, although with that, they are usually very sturdy and heavy shoes. These are lightweight and comfy. While there are nice materials (buttery-soft suede, 3M, etc.), these v6's don't seem to live up to the premium reputation of the 990 as much on first impression. I could be wrong and time will tell, but that was a little disappointing and I now understand the mixed feelings about v6 (being a departure from typical 990 styling and quality). They do have ENCAP and FuelCell, which is nice. Unfortunately, I will have to exchange them as I found them to be a 1/2 size too large. There's also mixed information out there on this, so if you have the opportunity to try them on before you buy, you can save yourself the headache. I'm hopeful the Dick's exchange process goes smoothly, as I purchased these online.... Show more
nwri90
originally posted on dickssportinggoods.com
Save your money !
Hasn't anyone learned their lesson by changing "iconic" things for the worse?Think Brooks Brothers...stupid decision to listen to bean counters and resize their entire clothing line...driving them right into bankruptcy.I've been wearing 990's since V4 and they were always my go to walking shoes. The newly "revisioned" v6 has lost everything that made these shoes great. v6 has a spongy foot-bed without the roll bar at the toes. You might as well be wearing pillows. They are now calling the 990 v6 a "running shoe" which was never the case. They were always marketed as a walking shoe. $200.00 for made in the USA isn't worth the money and I'm returning them and sourcing another brand.Wake up people - when you let the accountants run the business - no one can ... MoreHasn't anyone learned their lesson by changing "iconic" things for the worse?Think Brooks Brothers...stupid decision to listen to bean counters and resize their entire clothing line...driving them right into bankruptcy.I've been wearing 990's since V4 and they were always my go to walking shoes. The newly "revisioned" v6 has lost everything that made these shoes great. v6 has a spongy foot-bed without the roll bar at the toes. You might as well be wearing pillows. They are now calling the 990 v6 a "running shoe" which was never the case. They were always marketed as a walking shoe. $200.00 for made in the USA isn't worth the money and I'm returning them and sourcing another brand.Wake up people - when you let the accountants run the business - no one can calculate the damage it does.... Show more
Margo1000
originally posted on newbalance.com
They don't make 'em like they used to.
I'm not surprised in your advice for the "review" field is to comment on "how (I) styled it." What? I think style is all you cared about in the new v6 design. I've been wearing earlier versions (multiple pairs of v5 for at least four years) and was very dismayed to see that that the new design of the v6 has ruined the 990 shoe. I had to return them for a refund. The v6 is measurably lighter but most people bought this shoe for stability and comfort, NOT to win races. The design of the tongue and laces at the "throat" of the shoe is the biggest problem. The tongue now lacks enough cushioning and the top lace eyelets are too far back, past the peak of the shoe "quarter"(I think that's the term), so the top laces put pressure through the thin tongue onto my lower ankle ... MoreI'm not surprised in your advice for the "review" field is to comment on "how (I) styled it." What? I think style is all you cared about in the new v6 design. I've been wearing earlier versions (multiple pairs of v5 for at least four years) and was very dismayed to see that that the new design of the v6 has ruined the 990 shoe. I had to return them for a refund. The v6 is measurably lighter but most people bought this shoe for stability and comfort, NOT to win races. The design of the tongue and laces at the "throat" of the shoe is the biggest problem. The tongue now lacks enough cushioning and the top lace eyelets are too far back, past the peak of the shoe "quarter"(I think that's the term), so the top laces put pressure through the thin tongue onto my lower ankle and instep. What were you thinking?? Also, the counter seems too low because my foot is not seated as deep in the shoe and it tends to slip out. And for the style-conscious, there's too much white rubber and white plastic now, which introduces a cleaning headache. A dirty-looking shoe is not stylish. So I was hoping to grab a remaining pair of v5 from stock online at any store, but it's too late. There are only a few sizes of v5 left out there.It's time to switch brands.... Show more
MMMM
originally posted on newbalance.com
