New Balance 990 v4 Review Facts
The New Balance 990 v4 are a high-quality pair of shoes for the runner who is looking for superior support, stability and cushioning. The brand boasts thirty years of quality design and execution, and this model follows those same high expectations. These shoes utilize some of the best technologies to provide each runner with a uniquely pleasing experience.
Although this shoe comes in at the higher end of the pricing spectrum, runners commented again and again about the shoe’s durability and long lifespan. A combination of a durable leather pigskin upper combined with EVA and ENCAP midsole technology help keep this shoe from breaking mile after mile. For the overpronator, this is an ideal shoe. It provided extra cushioning and runner reported that it helped to provide additional arch support and eliminate foot, knee and hip pain they experienced from other shoes.
All of these features are designed and manufactured in America, so you can feel good about buying this shoe because you are supporting American businesses.
Outsole
Outsole
Midsole
Midsole
Upper
Upper
In addition to these new features, New Balance has added the 3M Reflectivity feature to the upper which helps protect the runner in low visibility areas. The upper of this shoe is designed to provide the runner with a comfortable and also breathable fit.
Weight
Weight
As technology becomes more and more advanced, the average weight of running shoes continues to decline. As of 2010, the average weight of a running shoe dropped to 9.6 ounces. The New Balance 990 v4 break this rule though. They weigh in at 13.6 ounces which can be considered quite heavy for today’s shoes. This is not by any means a deal breaker. For many runners, they are happy to sacrifice a few added ounces for the extra cushioning, support and stability that these shoes can give them.
Breathability
Breathability
Comfort
Comfort
Style
Style
Durability
Durability
Runners appreciated the reliability and durability of these shoes. A combination of EVA and Polyurethane found in the midsole keep these shoes from breaking down quickly. This is a shoe that can rack up miles without needing to be replaced. Plus, the upper of this shoe is made of a durable leather pigskin that doesn’t easily break down. Though they are on the pricey side, they last longer than the average shoe, so the cost is justifiable.
Protection
Protection
Responsiveness
Responsiveness
Support
Support
Runners who overpronate are used to soreness in their foot, shin, and knee. This running pattern tends to add stress and tightness to muscles, and this shoe does a nice job to protect against those elements. It adds extra support through the midsole and outsole and provides added arch support for the flat-footed runner. Runner appreciated that with the New Balance 990 v4 they were able to find the optimal balance between the right amount of comfort and the right amount of support.
Terrain
Terrain
This shoe is designed for the road or track, but because of the blown rubber outsole, it can also be used on mild offroad trails. Runners mentioned that because of the extra durability of the shoe, they felt confident taking this model on their long runs during their marathon training. In addition, many runners suggested that these are great shoes to use on the treadmill.
Price
Price
Today, the average running shoe costs around 115 dollars. Some runners were scared away from these shoes by the price tag since they are considerably higher than the cost of the average running shoe. However, since the shoe received high marks in durability and reliability, some runners commented that although the price is high, you have to replace these less frequently than you would other shoes, so it does justify the price tag. If a low price tag is your number one priority, there are many good shoes to choose from, but these might not be ideal for you.
Traction
Traction
Flexibility
Flexibility
If you are looking for a shoe that earned high reviews for flexibilities, this might not be the best shoe for you. Although this shoe moves easily with each of your foot strikes, this shoe is more for someone looking for stability over flexibility. While the shoe offers extended stability and support, it lacks in the flexibility department.
Stability
Stability
Drop
Drop
Key Features
Key Features
– ENCAP midsole material
– ACTEVA LITE foam in the midsole
– EVA (Ethyl Vinyl Acetate) midsole core
– Lace Keeper tongue design
– Blown Rubber outsole
Bottom Line
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a high quality, trusted brand that comes with extra support, cushioning, and stability, this is a great choice for you. New Balance shoes are made in America using state of the art technology. The brand comes with thirty years of quality. This shoe earns high marks for durability and breathability; however, this is a pricey shoe, so if a low budget shoe is your top priority, this might not be your top choice. This is a great choice for the runner who overpronates and is looking for added support and cushioning. Flat-footed runners gave this shoe high marks and commented that the added cushioning and stability were perfect for their stride. The technology of the midsole helps to absorb the impact of each stride and can help reduce knee and hip pain.