Anthony Williams
Same old New Balance 990 Ive worn for years. GREAT SHOE. I like how theyve changed the top two string eyelets. It seems to hold the tongue in place a little better although it makes it a little more difficult to lace up - a good tradeoff. I initially gave this product glowing reviews, BUT, after just a month the shoe has broken down to the point I wont use it for training. Ive used New Balance products since 1974. I used whatever early models I could get my hands until the 80s when I settled on the 99x series. Ive used them throughout my Marine Corps career - physical training, jogging, physical fitness tests and casual wear, et. cet. Ive logged 100s of miles in New Balance products. This year I ordered a pair from a source other than New Balance, but at a great price. At first I thought New Balance had upgraded their 990 series, but now, after some use, I believe I am the not-so-proud owner of a pair of NB knockoffs. Ill let the pictures mostly speak for themselves. Ill just touch on the big issues. First of all, when I opened the box I noticed the color of the shoes werent the same. They were lighter in color. I also noticed the material seemed... light weight. After wearing the shoes for a couple of weeks they started breaking down. I didnt have the same support I had when I first received them. They started wrinkling too; something New Balance doesnt do until their well used. I became concerned so I took them to our New Balance store in Huntsville, AL. and they were very helpful. All the markings seemed to be in order but the quality and color of my shoes just didnt line up alongside the real deal. It is believed by the New Balance folks and I, that these are visually comparable to the real thing but they are not. Buyer beware there are a lot of fakes out there trying to make in big on the reputation of others. If there is any doubt, go to some of the New Balance forums. Theres plenty of information and locations you go to to help you make a good decision - wish I had.