New Balance Classics

Made in USA 990v6

Women's

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.

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.

Did not like the fit.