New Balance 990v6

990v6

In 2022, one of New Balance’s most iconic sneaker lines reached its 40th anniversary, and at the end of the year, this special occasion was celebrated with the release of its sixth iteration. As with the previous editions, the focus was on performance and comfort, while the reworked design of the upper gave it a brand new look.

By this point, the durable Ndurance rubber outsole and supportive ENCAP midsole have both become staples of the flagship series, but on the New Balance 990v6, these are accompanied by some high-tech new components. The most important of these is the FuelCell cushioning in the midsole. Typically used on high-performance running shoes, this plush foam makes the v6 bouncy and responsive while also being lightweight, durable and extremely comfortable.

On top of this, a TPU back tab provides additional support around the heel, and the reflective elements on the upper mean that the shoe remains visible at night. Unlike the FuelCell foam, these features also affect the appearance of the 990v6, but it is the upper design that truly sets this shoe apart from its predecessors.

For the first time, the midfoot saddle has been removed, allowing more space for the breathable mesh to show through the layered suede overlays. The famous N logo has then been slotted directly into this gap to give the sleek New Balance 990v6 a boldly distinct esthetic.