We’re wading into deep waters here with our list of the best New Balance 990s on StockX. While a lot of people make their entry into New Balance via the ubiquitous 550, or maybe the 2002R, the 990 has historically been one for the ‘real’ New Balance heads. But you know what? New Balance is for the people, so we’re bringing you our pick of the best New Balance 990s – this list will cover off v1 to v3, so don’t @ me that there are no v5’s on here – they’re getting their own list. Let’s go.
New Balance 990v3 JJJJound Olive
JJJJound and New Balance teamed up again for their second 990v3 design with the New Balance 990v3 JJJJound Olive. Arriving with olive mesh and premium suede uppers, the New Balance 990v3 JJJJound Olive uses a minimalist approach to create a shoe geared for everyday wear. Black New Balance logos and overlays bring sharp contrast to the tonal green background. A silver reflective heel wrap with JJJJound branding adds a custom touch. From there, a cream ENCAP sole at the base completes the design.
New Balance 990v2 WTAPS
Strong grey vibes on this classic from Tetsu Nishiyama’s WTAPS label, which believe it or not is adventurous for him. Typically favouring olive and more military tones, the New Balance 990v2 WTAPS was one of the most hotly anticipated releases of 2021. Featuring a blend of premium suede and mesh, and 4 different shades of grey, the shoes feature WTAPS branding on the heel.
If you’re chasing a pair that will instantly elevate your collection to new heights, this could be the one. You might even get a head nod from a New Balance collector.
New Balance 990v3 Levi’s Denim
These are hard. The New Balance 990v3 Levi’s Denim dropped back in September 2021 and sold out instantly. They feature Levi’s denim underlays, with cow suede and hairy suede overlays to create a multi-layered, multi-textured look and feel. Also featuring a reflective N logo, special designed Levi’s insoles, and debossed detailing on the tongue. Cream laces set ‘em off perfectly.
The best part? You can now go with triple denim with your next ‘fit. Send me pics.
New Balance 990v1 MiUSA Teddy Santis Macadamia Nut
The original 990 is such a classic silhouette – it originally dropped back in 1982, do you believe that? 40 years old and still relevant, just like Lil Wayne (who’s also turning 40 this year – shout out Weezy). But while Lil Wayne (who originally went by the name ‘Shrimp Daddy’) probably isn’t rocking some 990s, you could be. In particular, this pair – the 990v1 MiUSA Teddy Santis Macadamia Nut.
Mixing premium suede and mesh panelling on the upper, with a black N logo and piping, this 990 is the perfect addition to any wardrobe.
New Balance 990v3 Kith Daytona
One of my favourite sneakers of the year is the New Balance 990v3 Kith Daytona. Featuring a mostly suede upper with mesh underlays, the colour palette is inspired by Ronnie Fieg’s childhood vacations to Florida. Keen NB fans will remember 2013’s Kith x New Balance collab on the 1600, which was the original ‘Daytona’ colourway – and these are definitely a true representation of those.
Everything about this shoe is well designed and executed, with a super premium feel in hand. The pair comes with multiple lacing options and a pair of matching Stance socks. RF branded lace locks finish this pair off beautifully.
New Balance 990v2 Version 2
Released back in June 2021 as part of New Balance’s “MADE 990 Version Series” this 990v2 Version 2 comes dressed in signature New Balance grey suede and mesh upper.
The shoe also features a number of ruby red highlights to celebrate the ruby anniversary of the 990 (40 years) – not just the highly visible Version 2 tag on the lateral side, but also on branding on the tongue and heel.
There’s also a special insole that depicts the clocktower at NB’s Massachusetts factory. Neat-o.
New Balance 990v3 DTLR Miami Drive
A candidate for the most slept-on sneaker of 2022, the New Balance 990v3 DTLR Miami Drive is eye-catching, to say the least. NB dropped this one with US sneaker retailer and frequent New Balance collaborator DTLR, and it features perfectly placed splashes of tidepool, dynamic orange, and solar pink – each representing a different element of Miami culture.
These only released at DTLR locations and on the DTLR website, which might explain why they didn’t get the hype they deserved – but the blend of pop colours with NB’s classic palette makes this pair stand out for all the right reasons.
