COMPARED: New Balance 990v6 vs 990v7

One of the most storied franchises in all of footwear, the 99X series from New Balance is adding a new model to the family. Since the introduction of the original 990 way back in 1982, the Boston-based brand has expanded and evolved the groundbreaking running silhouette into a lifestyle staple that, famously, is “Worn by supermodels in London and dads in Ohio.” The evolution over the last 40-plus-years has led to the latest version of the 990, the New Balance 990v7 Made in USA.

New Balance waited four years between the release of the ubiquitous 990v6 and the 990v7, taking its time to craft a worthy sequel. "The epitome of quality and craftsmanship, the 990v7 has been thoughtfully evolved, updated, and reimagined for today's consumer,” says Chris Davis, New Balance Brand President and Chief Marketing Officer. And with the care New Balance always puts into the 990, fans of the v6 will be ecstatic to see a host of upgrades across the board on the v7.

Ahead of the retail release of the first New Balance 990v7 Made in USA on November 6, we’re comparing the 990v6 and the 990v7.

Similarities Between the 990v6 and 990v7

Made in USA

There aren’t many similarities between the 990v6 and 990v7, but both carry the Made in USA stamp that New Balance champions. Both models contain at least 70% domestic value, with the uppers constructed right here in the United States.

Premium Materials

Of course, being constructed in the US doesn’t automatically guarantee a premium product, but New Balance ensures that high-quality craftsmanship and materials go into all of its MiUSA releases. The v6 and v7 both use premium suedes, mesh, and leather that, when compared to other products on the market in the same price range, outclass the competition.

Differences Between the 990v6 and 990v7

Tooling

With a four-year gap between the 990v6 and 990v7, New Balance was able to include the latest tech advancements in the cushioning setup of the v7. On the 990v6, the model mixes FuelCell foam cushioning with ENCAP cushioning, which combines lightweight foam and a durable polyurethane rim for all-day support.

It’s comfortable and great for all-day wear, but the 990v7 uses a new dual-density full-length FuelCell midsole, featuring a soft heel craft pad and soft forefoot bottom for cushioning and energy return alongside a denser forefoot top frame for extra support. Alongside the new FuelCell setup, the ENCAP cushioning remains, but a TPU midfoot shank adds motion control guidance and stability to the model. There’s also a CR device, a plastic support frame that is found on models like the 9060, which wraps around the heel for a locked-down feel.

Shape

At first glance, the 990v6 and 990v7 may appear somewhat similar, but when compared side by side, it’s clear that the 990v6 and 990v7 have slightly different shapes. It’s most noticeable when taking a look at the heel, with the v6 having a more pushed-back curve in the heel, while the v7 uses a rounded heel that provides more lockdown. The toebox is also more rounded on the v7, with the forefoot and tongue having a more refined look compared to the elongated look of the v6.

Paneling

Key to the 99X series is the layered paneling, and the 990v7 delivers in this department. There’s still a toebox overlay, though its shape has changed and the panel extends back to loop around the collar, helping to create the vamp overlay. For the “N” logo, the v7 shrinks the signature New Balance branding, while the encircled “990” from the v6 is removed in favor of a stamped “990” logo on a reflective 3M overlay.

The eyelet panel is also changed, with a rigid plastic surrounded by suede used on the v7 compared to the softer and unlined top eyelets of the v6. There are also two separate suede panels making up the rest of the lacing system.

New Balance 990v7 Made in USA Release Info

The New Balance 990v7 Made in USA Kool Grey will be released November 6, 2026 through New Balance and select retailers online and in-store. Available in unisex sizing, the retail price is set at $250. Expect to see more 990v7 colorways hit shelves in the coming months, including collab pairs. For updates on the 990v7 and more in the sneaker world, download the Sole Retriever mobile app.

Nicholas Vlahos

Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy watching films and discovering music. Follow me on Letterboxd @nickvlah For tips, reviews, or any shoes in a size 13, email nick@soleretriever.com