Both deliver premium comfort; 990 rides softer and sportier, 993 feels firmer-stable.
You want a shoe that can go from long days to quick walks without fuss. In the new balance 990 vs 993 debate, both do that well, but in different ways. The 990 gives a softer, more energetic ride; the 993 brings firmer support and rock-solid stability. I’ve worn both for work, travel, and errands. Here’s what actually mattered in daily use, so you can choose with confidence.
Is New Balance 990 Good?
Yes—and it suits many people. The 990 is a modern comfort trainer in heritage clothes. It feels cushy without being mushy. The ride is smooth and lively, thanks to its updated midsole. If you stand, walk, or commute a lot, it makes every step easy. It is also versatile for casual outfits.
I wore the 990 for a full trade show day on hard floors. My feet stayed fresh and steady. On a weekend trip, I logged 12,000 steps daily and never felt beat up. The 990 gave me enough support for hours, yet still felt light on foot. For me, that balance is the point.
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- FuelCell-inspired cushioning with ENCAP support for a soft-yet-stable ride
- Pigskin suede and mesh upper for premium look and breathability
- Made in USA craftsmanship with consistent quality
- Ndurance rubber outsole for long wear
- Ortholite-style insole for step-in comfort and odor control
What I Like
- Softer, more energetic feel underfoot than most heritage shoes
- Great for long days on concrete without foot fatigue
- Breathes well; stays comfortable in warm rooms
- Easy to dress up or down with jeans or chinos
- Wide range of widths for a dialed-in fit
What Could Be Better
- Premium price, and popular sizes can sell out
- Midsole can feel too soft if you prefer a firm platform
- Suede needs a bit of care to keep it looking sharp
My Recommendation
If you want a plush ride with real support, choose the 990. It delivers all-day comfort and modern feel with classic style. Availability varies, so buy when your size shows up.
| Best For | Why |
|---|---|
| All-day standing and walking | Softer midsole cushions impact without wobble |
| Casual versatility | Heritage look matches many outfits |
| Wide feet | Multiple width options for comfort |
Is New Balance 993 Good?
It depends on your needs—but for stability and durability, yes. The 993 is the steady one in the new balance 990 vs 993 matchup. It has a firmer, more planted feel with classic cushioning. If you want a shoe that feels solid and long-lasting, the 993 hits the mark.
On neighborhood walks, the 993 felt like a reliable daily trainer. It held my heel well and kept me steady on uneven sidewalks. On a long airport day, the firmer base saved my knees when carrying a backpack. It is not as bouncy as the 990, but that firm support is its charm.
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- ABZORB-based cushioning for firm, consistent shock absorption
- Pigskin suede and mesh upper with classic 99X shape
- Made in USA construction and materials
- Ndurance outsole rubber for serious mileage
- Supportive heel and stable base for overpronation-prone users
What I Like
- Very stable platform for long walks and daily wear
- Classic look that pairs well with timeless outfits
- Durable outsole that shrugs off miles
- Minimal break-in; feels consistent right away
- Solid heel hold that keeps steps confident
What Could Be Better
- Firmer feel may seem stiff if you like plush shoes
- Heavier than the 990; not as lively
- Breathability is good, but not as airy as 990
My Recommendation
Pick the 993 if you want firmer support, a planted ride, and long wear. It shines for walkers who want stability first.
| Best For | Why |
|---|---|
| Stability seekers | Firmer midsole and secure heel keep you steady |
| High-mileage walkers | Outsole and upper wear slowly |
| Classic style lovers | Timeless silhouette with premium suede |
new balance 990 vs 993: Side-by-Side Test
Both shoes are strong, but they serve different tastes. Here is how the new balance 990 vs 993 stack up in real life after weeks of wear.
Cushioning & Ride: Comfort vs. Firmness
The ride sets the tone, so I tested both on long days and short walks.
| Aspect | 990 | 993 |
|---|---|---|
| Midsole feel | Softer, more energetic | Firmer, more planted |
| Impact protection | High | High but denser |
| Energy return | Noticeable bounce | Subtle rebound |
| All-day comfort | Excellent | Very good if you like firm |
Rating: 990 – 9/10 | 993 – 8/10
Edge: 990 for softer comfort and a livelier step.
Stability & Support: Which Feels More Secure?
I checked heel hold, arch support, and side-to-side control.
| Aspect | 990 | 993 |
|---|---|---|
| Heel lockdown | Strong | Very strong |
| Arch support | Moderate-high | High, firmer midsole |
| Lateral stability | Stable | Very stable |
| Overpronation help | Good | Better |
Rating: 990 – 8.5/10 | 993 – 9/10
Edge: 993 for firmer support and a locked-in feel.
Fit & Sizing: Getting the Right Feel
Both offer multiple widths. Fit can still differ.
| Aspect | 990 | 993 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | True to size | Slightly snug for some; most go TTS |
| Width range | Narrow to Extra Wide | Narrow to Extra Wide |
| Toe box room | Roomy | Moderate-roomy |
| Break-in | Short | Very short |
Rating: 990 – 9/10 | 993 – 8.5/10
Edge: 990, slightly roomier and more forgiving out of the box.
Upper & Breathability: Everyday Comfort
Suede and mesh are the stars in both shoes.
| Aspect | 990 | 993 |
|---|---|---|
| Material quality | Premium pigskin suede + mesh | Premium pigskin suede + mesh |
| Breathability | Better airflow | Good, a bit warmer |
| Tongue/collar padding | Plush | Plush |
| Hot-weather use | Very comfortable | Comfortable |
Rating: 990 – 9/10 | 993 – 8/10
Edge: 990 for airflow and warm-day comfort.
Durability & Maintenance: Cost Per Wear
I looked at outsole wear, midsole resilience, and upper scuffs.
| Aspect | 990 | 993 |
|---|---|---|
| Outsole wear | Excellent | Excellent |
| Midsole compression | Moderate over time | Low; stays firm |
| Upper scuff resistance | Good with care | Good with care |
| Cleaning ease | Brush + suede spray | Brush + suede spray |
Rating: 990 – 8.5/10 | 993 – 9/10
Edge: 993; firmer foam holds shape longer for heavy walkers.
Style & Versatility: Daily Wear Options
Both fit the heritage lane. They style a bit differently on foot.
| Aspect | 990 | 993 |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Modern heritage | Classic heritage |
| Dress-up/down | Very versatile | Timeless casual |
| Colorways | Broad rotation | Classic, fewer drops |
| Trend factor | High | Steady |
Rating: 990 – 9/10 | 993 – 8.5/10
Edge: 990 for broader styling range and modern appeal.
Weight & Agility: How They Move
Perceived weight affects how fast and free a shoe feels.
| Aspect | 990 | 993 |
|---|---|---|
| Perceived weight | Lighter on foot | Heftier |
| Agility | Quick and smooth | Deliberate and stable |
| Fatigue over time | Low | Low-moderate |
| Short jogs | Okay in a pinch | Better for walks |
Rating: 990 – 8.5/10 | 993 – 8/10
Edge: 990 for a lighter, quicker feel.
Price & Value: What You Get
The new balance 990 vs 993 both sit at premium price points.
| Aspect | 990 | 993 |
|---|---|---|
| MSRP band | Typically higher | Typically slightly lower |
| Sale frequency | Less frequent | Occasional |
| Cost per wear | Strong for daily use | Strong; durability helps |
| Availability | High demand, some sizes scarce | Good, varies by color |
Rating: 990 – 8/10 | 993 – 8.5/10
Edge: 993 for value if you like a firmer ride and find a good price.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
Choose the 990 if you want a softer, more modern ride with great breathability and style range. It shines for long days on your feet and everyday comfort. In the new balance 990 vs 993, it is the comfort-first pick.
Choose the 993 if you prefer a firmer, more stable base and long-term durability. It feels planted and dependable for walks and daily wear. If support matters most, the 993 is your best bet.
FAQs Of new balance 990 vs 993
What is the main difference in feel between the 990 and 993?
The 990 feels softer and more energetic. The 993 feels firmer and more stable. In the new balance 990 vs 993 choice, this is the key split.
Which is better for all-day standing?
Most people will prefer the 990. It has more cushion and breathes better. If you like a firm base, the 993 also works well.
Which has better stability for overpronation?
The 993. Its firmer midsole and secure heel give extra support. In new balance 990 vs 993 terms, the 993 wins for stability.
How do they fit compared to each other?
Both run true to size with multiple widths. The 990 feels slightly roomier. The 993 can feel a touch snug for some.
Which is the better value?
If you want plush comfort, the 990 is worth the price. If you want long-lasting firmness, the 993 delivers strong value. The best pick depends on your priority in the new balance 990 vs 993 debate.
Rubel Miah is the Senior Editor at MyStyleGrid.com, where he brings a sharp editorial eye and an unshakable love for fashion to everything he does. A true style addict, Rubel lives and breathes trends, from streetwear to high fashion, and has a knack for turning inspiration into impactful stories. With years of experience in fashion journalism and digital media, he curates content that empowers readers to express themselves through style. When he’s not editing features or forecasting the next big thing, you’ll find him hunting down vintage pieces or capturing street style moments around the city.
