The 99X series by New Balance undoubtedly is one of the most succesful runs in sneaker history. Debuted almost four decades ago with the very first version of the 990, it spawned several updates over the years. To bring back some of the dearly-missed archive models, New Balance now starts the 990 Version Series – beginning with the MADE 990v1.
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it – that’s what they say at least. But with their constant tweaks on one of their finest models ever, New Balance proves this adage wrong. As of 2021, we’re already at the the 5th version of the 990 and the silhouette is as popular as ever. Yet again, it all started in 1982 with the undisputed original. The first 990 embodied NB’s core virtues of premium quality, timeless design and authentic craftsmanship all in one simple sneaker.
Despite the 990v5 featuring all of those perks plus modern-day fine tuning, the return of 990v1 still is something very special. The US-made shoe of course comes in a classic grey tone (what else), spiced up with red accents on the tongue label and heel branding. A small tag that reads “Version 1” further reminds of the fact that this indeed is the original design. In addition, the outsole, insole and dust bag feature images of the tower clock on New Balance’s in Lawrence, MA – alluding to the timeless appeal of this sneaker culture classic.
DID YOU KNOW?
When it first released in 1982, the original 990 sold for $100 USD – a pretty hefty price at the time. For an all-out throwback experience, New Balance therefore sold 100 pairs of their limited “Special Edition 1982” three years ago for 80 € instead of the usual 200 € at a Berlin pop-up location.
Release Details – New Balance MADE 990v1 (M990VS1)
The New Balance MADE 990v1 (M990VS1) releases on June 17, 2021. Retailing at 220 €, the shoe is available at asphaltgold, BSTN, 43einhalb, Voo and Overkill.
Now also check out the line-up for New Balance Grey Day 2021.
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