Customer Reviews New Balance Classics Made in USA 990v6

A poor redesign of what was a great shoe (the 990v5). The v6 is just a really bad fit and nothing like the fit of the v5. Now it's extra long, by a full size; tight in the toe box and loose in the heel. I usually wear Wide, but ordered X-Wide because all the reviews said the v6 runs narrow and long. They were right. Even the X-Wide is more like a Medium width. And there is a full 1 inch and 1/2 space at the end of my toes. The sole is not supportive like the v5, which had a good balance of firmness and cushion. The v6 is all squishy cushion without any firm support. When I stand my heel feels like it's sinking down into memory foam. This is a fashion shoe, that's all. I've got tendon issues and fallen arches so I need more support than this shoe provides. Wish New Balance had left the v5 alone, but it's all about aesthetics now, not foot health, which is too bad.

The 990s have been my favorite shoe for years, but the new v6 is unwearable for me. My usual size was too long, and my heels slipped out. I dropped down a half size and they were uncomfortable. I also miss the navy color, the black and white isn’t very interesting and will get dirty fast. I wear a medium width but have narrower heels and usually 990s are perfect. It’s so sad. I ordered a v5 instead. Hopefully they’ll make a v7 and retire this mess soon.

Too long, too narrow in toe box. Cheap inferior materials. No support. The 990 is no longer a quality shoe with both support and comfort. It is now strictly a lifestyle shoe with a weird fit -- long and narrow like a submarine. Not at all the natural shape of the human foot. New Balance brand has lost credibility.

Did not like the fit.

I have been on the hunt for the most comfortable shoes for work. I have tried many different brands, but straight out of the box, I could tell this pair was going to be “it.” Per recommendation, I ordered half a size down from my normal size (I am a true US 8.5 wide ordered an 8 wide) and they fit perfect. Toe box looks narrow but doesn’t feel narrow. Good cushioning, but not too much. Heel doesn’t slide. They are not the most stylish shoes, but that doesn’t bother me because I was going for comfort and durability. They are a bit more streamlined than past versions, which I like. And the black color way also makes it look a little more sleek. They are somewhat stiff at first, but I am confident they will break in nicely with some wear. I have had other versions of this shoe before and somehow strayed to try more modern or trendy looking shoes, but here I am, back to the 990s. I should’ve just stuck with what worked. They never seem to disappoint.

I purchased the New Balance 990V6 from Zappos. This model is listed twice on their website. I'm very disappointed. 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 of increasing the price, New Balance implemented these cost-cutting measures. That decision will cause loyal New Balance customers to find another brand.

Just got a new puppy…needed new shoes for walking (aka chasing) her…these are great shoes for this flat footed woman..

Finally, a running shoe that fits my short, wide feet (Size 5D) with room for socks. Even my bunion is happy.

This is the second time I’ve purchased these shoes and they’re extremely comfortable. The only comment I have for improvement is that the shoelaces are too short for a runners tie, which I need to keep my heel down properly. I purchased 63 inch shoelaces and those work well.

there’s nothing wrong with these shoes. I love New Balance. I have new custom orthotics and am recovering for foot surgery and the shoes are not quite right. Thank you for helping me.

These shoes fit perfectly, however, there were a few frayed edges around the collar. I am exchanging them for another pair.

My favorite lifestyle shoes. They require no time to feel comfy. This is my second pair of 990v6. I’ve worn the 990 series for several years. I tried the big kids sizing. They were too wide.

This is my second pair of 990v6’s. They are very comfortable - right out of the box. It’s fun to have the choice between white or color coordinated shoes strings! Yes, there are two pairs of shoes. As a long time 990 series wearer, I appreciate the quality and comfort .

This a great looking athletic shoe; however, on my foot it felt 1/2 size large.

I love this shoe! I have worn several iterations of this line. Currently, I’m alternating between v5 and v6. Both fit very well. V6 has more bounce and very stable. The tongue on the v6 is thinner than any other I’ve worn. For me, v4 ran short and narrow.

I liked them, but not for the higher price.

Fit was good... but, not enough feel good to justify price

I have and love my NBs 990v5 and was hoping the v6 would work out just as well. However, the style has changed too much so the shoe literally looks and feels a size or two longer. I compared the v6 next to my v5 shoe and it looks two sizes bigger. The toe shape is totally different (longer). I wanted to like these just as much but couldn't. Sadly, they are going back.

Not enough support under arch and heel

The tongue on NB athletic shoes is too long for me and rubs against the front of my leg. Also, though they were narrow, my heel slipped too much. I have orthotics, so the lack of support wasn't an issue for me.

They do not fit or feel as good as 990 v5 Narrow, tight on top even with shoe laces loose.

You sent 1 shoe that was width B, which I ordered, and one shoe which was width D.

Excellent support for job standing a lot during the work day!

The size and fit were fine, it's just that I have very thin, long boney feet and the fit wasn't good for me. I have trouble walking in everything.

This is my “always” shoe, but I am truly peeved that it is no longer offered in Narrow in my size—-Women’s 11. Not Zappos fault, but I need to rant somewhere!