The 990's original designers were tasked with creating the single best running shoe on the market. The finished product more than lived up to its billing. When it hit shelves for the first time in 1982 the 990 sported an elegantly understated grey colorway, and a then unheard of three-figure price tag. For avid runners and ahead of the curve tastemakers alike, the 990 was a mark of quality and superior taste. There have been updates to the design since '82, and more color options, but the 990's aspirational status symbol aura has never changed. MADE makes up a limited portion of New Balance's US sales.
The 990's original designers were tasked with creating the single best running shoe on the market. The finished product more than lived up to its billing. When it hit shelves for the first time in 1982 the 990 sported an elegantly understated grey colorway, and a then unheard of three-figure price tag. For avid runners and ahead of the curve tastemakers alike, the 990 was a mark of quality and superior taste. There have been updates to the design since '82, and more color options, but the 990's aspirational status symbol aura has never changed. MADE makes up a limited portion of New Balance's US sales.
The 990's original designers were tasked with creating the single best running shoe on the market. The finished product more than lived up to its billing. When it hit shelves for the first time in 1982 the 990 sported an elegantly understated grey colorway, and a then unheard of three-figure price tag. For avid runners and ahead of the curve tastemakers alike, the 990 was a mark of quality and superior taste. There have been updates to the design since '82, and more color options, but the 990's aspirational status symbol aura has never changed. MADE makes up a limited portion of New Balance's US sales.
The 990's original designers were tasked with creating the single best running shoe on the market. The finished product more than lived up to its billing. When it hit shelves for the first time in 1982 the 990 sported an elegantly understated grey colorway, and a then unheard of three-figure price tag. For avid runners and ahead of the curve tastemakers alike, the 990 was a mark of quality and superior taste. There have been updates to the design since '82, and more color options, but the 990's aspirational status symbol aura has never changed. MADE makes up a limited portion of New Balance's US sales.
Last updated at 03/21/2026 21:32:55
New Balance Men 990v1 Black Made In USA M990BK1 7
Delivery $82.72
originally posted on newbalance.com
I thought maybe new balance had changed the sole/insole material in these new versions but they did not. These shoes have a huge heel but it doesn't provide much comfort at all. Better off wearing vans or something.I wish new balance would use the technology they use in their new running shoes to make a normal looking shoe. One like this but without a massive heel .
originally posted on newbalance.com
I have several pairs of 990v1's including the recently released black and grey models. I wear all my v1's for casual wear and enjoy every minute I have them on. No, they are not as cushy and plush as NB's latest running shoes. However, they are very comfortable for walking or even light exercising. They are well made, attractive, and fit to size. I hope that additional models are offered. If they are, I will likely have them in my closet.
originally posted on newbalance.com
Great walking shoe. All day comfort. Slightly harder sole but very good. Nice materials. Fit slightly large. I wear a 13 but my left foot is closer to a 14 and these fit perfect. Very nice shoe.
New Balance Men 990v1 Black Made In USA M990BK1 7
Delivery $82.72
I thought maybe new balance had changed the sole/insole material in these new versions but they did not. These shoes have a huge heel but it doesn't provide much comfort at all. Better off wearing vans or something.I wish new balance would use the technology they use in their new running shoes to make a normal looking shoe. One like this but without a massive heel .
I have several pairs of 990v1's including the recently released black and grey models. I wear all my v1's for casual wear and enjoy every minute I have them on. No, they are not as cushy and plush as NB's latest running shoes. However, they are very comfortable for walking or even light exercising. They are well made, attractive, and fit to size. I hope that additional models are offered. If they are, I will likely have them in my closet.
Great walking shoe. All day comfort. Slightly harder sole but very good. Nice materials. Fit slightly large. I wear a 13 but my left foot is closer to a 14 and these fit perfect. Very nice shoe.
Really love the retro look of the V1, but they are not nearly as sturdy as my V4's and V5's. Toe box is s little tighter and the tongue is not as thick. Realize they are a remake of an earlier shoe and there have been improvements along the way.
I am 78 years old. I run 4 miles every other morning and lift weights on the mornings that I don't run. I have been running for 64 years with only minor changes in my schedule. The only time I change is to get ready for a 10k or 15k etc. I have used various shoes over the years, but in 1977 I found that I could run about 500 miles with the NB 990 series but could only get about 300-350 miles out of other brands or even other NB shoes. I have been 6'2" and about 210 lbs since I was 18 years old. I maintained that weight throughout my life in the Marine Corp, 57 years in law enforcement with the past 5 years mainly in retirement with some part time assignments etc. I have now gained to 220 lbs. and my running is slower but I still make it. Hope to continue using the ... MoreI am 78 years old. I run 4 miles every other morning and lift weights on the mornings that I don't run. I have been running for 64 years with only minor changes in my schedule. The only time I change is to get ready for a 10k or 15k etc. I have used various shoes over the years, but in 1977 I found that I could run about 500 miles with the NB 990 series but could only get about 300-350 miles out of other brands or even other NB shoes. I have been 6'2" and about 210 lbs since I was 18 years old. I maintained that weight throughout my life in the Marine Corp, 57 years in law enforcement with the past 5 years mainly in retirement with some part time assignments etc. I have now gained to 220 lbs. and my running is slower but I still make it. Hope to continue using the NB 990 series for several more years.
I really dig the old school aesthetic. Ordered in my regular 990 size and took a chance that I could get by with the standard width, as these aren't offered in wide sizes. Unfortunately, these came in way too short and far too narrow. Bummer, had to return. Go a half size larger on these. And if you take a wide size, just look elsewhere.
Love all the 990 models, this was my first pair of vol. 1's I was very excited as they are my second favorite silloute for 990's yet I never was able to get a pair before they sold out. I wear a size 15 but was shocked at how big this particular shoe fit. Compared it to other new balance size 15 models I have and it visually looks a whole size bigger. Along with the fit. I put a extra set of insoles in to help yet they still feel big.
I've worn many pairs of New Balance in size 13 but I realize now they have all been imported. This is the first time I've tried to wear a pair Made in the U.S. and they fit a whole size bigger. No question about it, this size 13 pair of 990s is about an inch longer than my size 13 574s. I also have a deadstock size 13 pair of 995s Made in the U.S. that I never tried on and always assumed they fit the same as the others - nope, they are also colossal in length. Bottom line, these are great shoes but make hella sure you know what size you wear in the Made In USA models versus the imported models.
I work in auto sales in southern Utah. Spend a lot of time on my feet and my shoes are exposed to a lot of heat and wear and tear. These things are super comfy, breath well and the black stays looking clean. Most importantly, Made In U.S.A.!!
Great shoe as expected. As with the v5's I had to go down a half size after ordering an 11. I did keep the 11 in the black to wear with thicker socks come fall. Lighter than the V5's and a bit more spring in the soles. Who puts a Vibram sole on a sneaker? New Balance does!
