New Balance 990v2

About

The New Balance 990v2 launched in 1998 as the second chapter of New Balance's iconic 990 series, following the original 990 released in 1982. Rather than continuing the gradual, incremental updates seen across the 995 through 999 models, the 990v2 marked a deliberate departure — New Balance Gallery's Thomas Lindie called it 'quite disruptive' for breaking that pattern. The silhouette repurposed the 990v1's upper construction and paired it with new ABZORB midsole cushioning for improved shock absorption, giving the shoe a distinct ride and stance from its predecessor. Built as a low-top lifestyle sneaker, the 990v2 carried forward the Made in USA heritage construction the 990 line is known for, blending premium suede and mesh materials. Decades after its debut, the 990v2 experienced a major resurgence, most notably through Aime Leon Dore's Fall/Winter 2019 collaboration, which reintroduced the silhouette to a new generation of sneaker enthusiasts and cemented its status as a heritage-runner icon within the broader New Balance catalog.