The original designers of the 990 were tasked with creating the best running shoe on the market. The finished product more than lived up to its reputation. When the 990 was first launched in 1982, it was a sleek, understated grey and cost a three-figure sum at the time. For both avid runners and those ahead of the zeitgeist, the 990 was a sign of quality and good taste. Since '82, there have been updates to the design and more colour options, but the 990's aura as an aspirational status symbol has never changed.