The New Balance 990 series is one of those rare sneaker lines that just keeps getting better with time.
Every version feels thoughtful, comfortable, and built with purpose. Whether it’s the v1 or the latest v6, there’s a reason people keep coming back to the 990 again and again.
But let’s be honest, New Balance 990 sizing can sometimes get confusing. Different versions fit differently, width options change the feel, and once you throw hype collaborations into the mix, picking the wrong size can turn into a real headache.
That’s exactly why this guide exists.
In this article, I break down how each NB 990 model fits, who should size up or down, how narrow and wide feet are affected, and how collaborations can change the fit.
I also include a size chart and real on-foot advice, so you’re not guessing when it matters most.
If you’re trying to figure out what size will actually work for your feet before hitting checkout, especially on those hard-to-get releases, you’re in the right place.
New Balance 990 Sizing
Before diving into each model, here’s the short version for anyone who just wants to know whether the NB 990 run big or small and what size to buy.
The New Balance 990 series does not run small. If anything, most versions run a little big lengthwise, which is why you’ll often hear people talk about going half a size down.
That said, not every 990 fits the same, and width plays a huge role.
Here’s the general rule of thumb:
Many people go half a size down for a more precise fit, especially in models like the 990v3 through v6, because they run a bit long
Going true to size works well if you like extra room, wear thicker socks, or have wider feet
Sizing up is rarely needed unless you’re dealing with a very narrow model and want more width without switching to a wider option
Earlier versions like the 990v1 and v2 tend to feel a little more narrow, so some people stick true to size there.
Mid-series models like the 990v3, v4, and v5 give you flexibility to choose between true to size or half size down. The v6 is the longest of the bunch, which is why we recommend you size down.
Width matters just as much as length here. The 990 line gives you multiple width options, which can completely change how the shoe feels without needing to size up or down.
If you’re in a hurry, this alone should help you make a safe call.
But if you want to understand why each model fits the way it does, how foot shape changes the recommendation, and which versions feel different on foot, keep reading.
That’s where the details really matter.
Related: The 990 and the 1906 feel very different on foot, so before switching models, it’s worth checking my detailed guide on how the New Balance 1906 fits.
New Balance 990v6 Sizing
If there’s one shoe in the New Balance lineup that gets people second-guessing their size, it’s the 990v6. And honestly, I get why. This model fits a little differently than most sneakers, even compared to other 990s.
How the 990v6 Fits Overall
The New Balance 990v6 runs long lengthwise. When you put them on fresh out of the box, the extra length is noticeable. It’s not extreme, but it’s enough that many people end up with more toe room than they actually need.
My foot measures as a true size 9 on the Brannock device, and it sits slightly on the wider side. In the 990v6, I personally go half a size down to an 8.5, and that gives me the fit I want.
At half a size down, I still have about an index finger’s width of space at the toe. The shoe feels secure without feeling cramped, and once it breaks in, it fits my foot really well.
Out of the box, the width around the ball of the foot can feel a little snug. But in my experience, the more you wear them, the more that pressure eases up.
After some wear time, those pressure points fade, and the shoe starts to feel natural.
Half Size Down vs True to Size
Here’s how I’d break it down.
If you have narrow, normal, or slightly wide feet, going half a size down usually makes the most sense. The shoe already runs long, so sizing down helps clean up the length without ruining the fit.
If you go true to size, the shoe will still work, but it will feel longer and a bit less dialed in. Some people are totally fine with that. Others want a more precise, one-to-one fit.
Now, if you have really wide feet, the 990v6 can feel snug around the bottom lace eyelet area, especially if you have a higher instep.
In that case, sizing down can create even pressure across the front of the foot. If that sounds like you, sticking true to size and dealing with the extra length may be the safer option.
Widths
The 990v6 is offered in multiple widths: standard, wide (2E), extra wide, and even XX-wide. That’s great on paper, but it also complicates sizing.
I tried:
- 8.5 standard
- 9 standard
- 8.5 wide
Here’s what stood out.
The 8.5 standard gave me the best overall fit once broken in. Good length, decent lockdown, and the snugness eased over time.
The 8.5 wide gave me more room across the forefoot, but I lost some stability. My foot didn’t feel as locked in, especially during longer walks. It wasn’t bad, just less secure.
The takeaway is if you’re slightly wide, the standard width half size down usually works once the shoe breaks in.
If you’re very wide, the wide option can help with comfort, but you may trade off a bit of that classic 990 stability.
How the 990v6 Compares to Other New Balance Models
This part helps a lot if you already wear New Balance.
I wear an 8.5 in most Made in USA models like:
- 990v3
- 990v4
- 990v5
- 992
- 993
- 998
The 990v6 fits similarly in length, but it feels slightly narrower, especially near the bottom lace area.
On the other hand, I go true to size (9) in many Made in Asia or Made in UK models like:
So if you already size down in most Made in USA New Balance shoes, the 990v6 follows that same pattern, with the added note that it runs a bit long and a touch snug up front.
And if you’re curious why I stay true to size in models like the 9060, I break it all down in my full guide on do New Balance 9060 run big, where I explain exactly how the length, width, and cushioning affect the fit.
Why Trying Them On Matters
You could absolutely order your normal size or half size down and probably be fine. But if you’re picky about fit, or if you sit right between widths, testing them in person removes all the guesswork.
The 990v6 isn’t “bad” fitting. It’s just unique. Long in length, structured in the midfoot, and snug in spots that soften over time.
Here’s the simple version:
- Narrow / normal / slightly wide feet: Half size down
- Very wide feet: True to size, or try wide widths
- Between sizes: Try both if you can
- Expect break-in: Yes, especially around the forefoot
Here’s a quick video below where the 990v6 sizing is tested on foot. It lines up exactly with what I’m describing here…
Now, if you’re also looking at Asics, I’ve got a full Asics GT-2160 sizing guide that breaks down how that model fits, especially if you like a slightly more structured feel.
New Balance 990v5 Sizing
The 990v5 is one of those shoes that gives you options, and that’s both a good thing and the reason sizing can feel confusing at first.
The fit itself is pretty consistent, but how it feels on your foot really comes down to how snug or roomy you like your sneakers.
How the 990v5 Fits Overall
In general, the 990v5 fits true to size, but it leans slightly roomy. It doesn’t feel sloppy, just a bit more relaxed compared to something like the 990v6.
My foot measures as a true size 9, slightly on the wider side. In the 990v5, I can comfortably wear either an 8.5 or a 9, depending on the fit I’m after.
- Size 9: Feels true to size, with a bit of extra space
- Size 8.5: Feels more snug and one-to-one
- Neither size feels wrong. It’s really a preference thing.
Half Size Down vs True to Size
Here’s the easiest way to think about it.
If you like a snug, secure fit, going half a size down makes a lot of sense. That’s what I personally do. An 8.5 gives me a closer fit without cramping my toes or causing pressure.
If you like a roomier, more relaxed feel, sticking true to size works perfectly. In a size 9, the shoe feels comfortable right away and never feels tight. If anything, it just feels a little more generous.
If you’re in between sizes, sizing down usually works well. The shoe doesn’t run short, so you’re not risking your toes hitting the front.
What Foot Type Works Best?
- Narrow feet: True to size usually works well
- Normal feet: Either true to size or half size down, depending on preference
- Wider feet: True to size is the safer choice
The 990v5 doesn’t feel narrow through the forefoot, so even slightly wider feet don’t feel squeezed. And if you want even more control over the fit, that’s where the width options come in…
Width Options Make a Big Difference
One of the best things about the 990v5 is how many width choices you get.
In men’s sizing, New Balance offers:
- Extra narrow
- Narrow
- Standard
- Wide
- Extra wide
- Extra extra wide
That’s six width options for every size, which is honestly rare. If you know your foot shape, this makes dialing in the fit way easier.
Narrow feet can avoid excess space, and wide feet don’t have to size up just to get comfort.
Because of this, many people can stick true to size and simply adjust width instead of length.
How It Compares to Other New Balance Models
For reference, I go half size down (8.5) in models like:
- 990v3
- 990v4
- 990v5
- 992
- 998
- 995
- Most 550s
- 1700
If you want to hear exactly how I size my 550s and why I ended up there after wearing a bunch of pairs, I put everything into my New Balance 550 sizing guide. I talk through the fit, the break-in, and everything in between.
I stick true to size (9) in:
- 990v2 (narrower toe box)
- 997
- 991
- 1500
- 1530
- 2002R
That puts the 990v5 firmly in the “flexible sizing” category. It works both ways depending on how you like your shoes to feel.
Trying Them On Still Helps
Even though the 990v5 is forgiving, trying them on first is always a good idea, especially if you’re buying a limited colorway or collaboration. Once those sell out, there’s no easy redo.
Quick Sizing Summary
- Fits true to size overall
- Half size down for a snug, one-to-one fit
- True to size for a roomier feel or wider feet
- Width options matter and can solve most fit issues
Related: By the way, if the New Balance 990 feels a bit bulky for your style, you might want to check out my Asics GEL-NYC sizing guide. It’s a different vibe, but the fit comparison is really helpful.
New Balance 990v4 Sizing
The 990v4 is one of those New Balance models where the sizing feels familiar if you’ve worn other Made in USA pairs before. It doesn’t throw any surprises, but it does give you two solid sizing paths depending on how you like your shoes to fit.
How the 990v4 Fits Overall
The 990v4 generally runs a little long, which is why a lot of people, myself included, prefer going half a size down.
My foot measures as a true size 9 on the Brannock device, slightly on the wider side, sitting between a D and an E width. In the 990v4, I go with an 8.5, and that size feels spot on.
At half a size down, I still have about a finger’s width of space at the front of the shoe. The length feels clean, the fit feels balanced, and nothing feels cramped, even with a slightly wider foot.
Half Size Down vs True to Size
This is where personal preference comes in.
If you like a more precise, one-to-one fit, going half a size down works really well in the 990v4. That’s the route I take, and it’s the same size I wear in other Made in USA models like the 990v3, 990v5, 990v6, 992, and 993.
If you like extra room or you’ve always stuck true to size in New Balance Made in USA shoes, you can absolutely do that here, too.
Going true to size gives you a slightly more spacious feel, especially in the toe box, without the shoe feeling sloppy.
So the shoe itself isn’t tricky. It just gives you options.
What Foot Types Does the 990v4 Work For?
- Narrow feet: Half size down usually feels cleaner
- Normal feet: Half size down for a snug fit, true to size for room
- Slightly wide feet: Half size down still works surprisingly well
- Wide feet: True to size is the safer move
Even with slightly wider feet, I don’t run into any width issues going half a size down. The shoe doesn’t pinch, and the forefoot feels comfortable once it’s on foot.
Should You Try Them On First?
If you’re someone who always goes true to size and loves a roomier fit, you’ll probably be fine ordering your normal size. But if you’re chasing that clean, dialed-in feel, trying half a size down and true to size side by side makes the choice obvious pretty quickly.
Especially if you’re buying a limited colorway, it’s worth getting the size right the first time.
Quick Sizing Summary
- Runs slightly long
- Half size down for a snug, balanced fit
- True to size for extra room
- Works well for narrow, normal, and slightly wide feet
Related: If you rotate between New Balance and Nike, I also put together a detailed Nike Air Max sizing guide that explains how those fit compared to more supportive lifestyle runners like the 990.
New Balance 990v3 Sizing
The 990v3 feels very consistent once you’ve worn a few pairs. If you already know how other Made in USA 990s fit you, this one won’t surprise you. But the Kith collaboration fit a bit differently…
How the 990v3 Fits Overall
For me, the 990v3 runs a little long, which is why I personally prefer going half a size down.
My feet measure as a true size 9 on the Brannock device, slightly on the wider side. In the 990v3, I almost always grab an 8.5, and that gives me a clean, snug, one-to-one fit without feeling cramped.
If you like your shoes feeling dialed in and secure, half a size down makes a lot of sense here.
Half Size Down vs True to Size
If you want a snug, precise fit, especially if you have narrow or regular-width feet, going half a size down works great. That’s how I wear all my 990v3s, and it’s also the size I take in models like the 992, 993, 990v4, 990v5, 998, and most 550s.
If you have really wide feet or you just like a roomier toe box, sticking true to size is totally fine. The shoe still fits well, just with more breathing room up front.
So there’s no wrong answer here. It’s more about how close you like the shoe to feel on foot.
What Foot Types Does the 990v3 Work For?
- Narrow feet: Half size down feels best
- Normal feet: Half size down for snug, true to size for room
- Slightly wide feet: Half size down still works for most
- Very wide feet: True to size is the safer choice
Even with slightly wider feet, I don’t feel squeezed when I go half a size down. The forefoot settles in nicely once the shoe is on.
How the 990v3 Collabs Fit
I’ve worn quite a few 990v3 collaborations over the years, including pairs like the DTLR x New Balance 990v3 and Teddy Santis x New Balance 990v3, and those all fit the same as the regular version for me.
The one interesting exception was the Kith x New Balance 990v3.
That pair felt slightly bigger and a bit more wide-foot friendly than my other 990v3s. I don’t know if it was just my pair or a small production difference, but there was noticeably more room.
Even so, I still went with my usual half size down (8.5), and they fit extremely comfortably. If anything, the extra room made them even easier to wear.
If you own that Kith pair, I’m genuinely curious how it fit you. Did it feel roomier than your other v3s, or was it just me?
Quick Sizing Summary
- Runs a bit long
- Half size down for a snug, one-to-one fit
- True to size if you want more toe room or have wide feet
- Collabs mostly fit the same, with slight variation on the Kith pair
Related: If you’ve ever been curious about heavier, molded sneakers, my Nike Foamposite sizing guide goes deep into how those fit and why sizing matters way more than people expect.
New Balance 990v2 Sizing
How the 990v2 Fits Overall
The 990v2 has a narrower toe box compared to most other Made in USA New Balance models. Because of that, width matters more here than length.
My feet measure as a true size 9 on the Brannock device, slightly on the wider side. In the 990v2, I personally stick true to size. That gives me the width I need up front, even if it means accepting a little extra length.
In my true size, I get just under a thumb’s width of space in front of my toes. That’s more room than I’d ideally want lengthwise, but the trade-off is worth it because the width feels right.
I’d rather deal with a bit of extra length than feel my toes squeezed.
True to Size vs Half Size Down
This is where people split on the 990v2.
A lot of people do go half a size down, especially if they:
- Have narrow feet
- Like a very snug, one-to-one fit
- Already size down in most New Balance Made in USA pairs
If that’s you, half a size down can work. Length-wise, it actually feels really good.
But if you have wider feet, half a size down can be a problem. When I tried an 8.5, the length was perfect, but the width was simply too tight.
The toe box felt cramped, and I could feel pressure along the sides of my forefoot right away.
That’s why, for wider feet, true to size is the safer and more comfortable option in the 990v2.
What Foot Types Does the 990v2 Work For?
- Narrow feet: Half size down works well
- Normal feet: Depends on preference. Snug fit = half down. Comfort = true to size
- Wide feet: True to size is strongly recommended
This model is less forgiving than other 990s when it comes to width, so knowing your foot shape matters here more than usual.
Salehe Bembury x New Balance 990v2 Sizing
The Salehe Bembury 990v2 fits very much in line with the regular model, but the narrowness is even more noticeable.
I picked these up in both an 8.5 and a 9 to compare. In the 8.5, the length felt great, but the width was simply too tight for my slightly wider feet. The pressure around the toe box was immediate.
The size 9 felt much better overall. Yes, there was a bit of extra room lengthwise, but the width finally felt comfortable and wearable. For wide-footers, I’d strongly recommend sticking true to size on this release.
Teddy Santis x New Balance 990v2 Sizing
This is where things get interesting.
In the past, many Teddy Santis 990v2 releases felt slightly bigger than standard v2s. Because of that, I was usually able to go half a size down in those pairs without issues.
However, this specific Teddy Santis release did not fit that way.
I grabbed my pair in an 8.5, expecting the same roomier feel, and it turned out to be a mistake. The toe box felt noticeably snug, with pressure along the sides of my feet.
In hindsight, true to size (9) would have been the better choice for me.
It could have been a factory inconsistency or a change in materials, but this pair felt much closer to a standard 990v2 than earlier Teddy Santis versions.
So if you’re looking at this collab, don’t assume it fits like the older Teddy Santis v2s. When in doubt, true to size is safer, especially if your feet aren’t narrow.
Quick Sizing Summary
- Narrow toe box compared to other 990s
- True to size works best for wider feet
- Half size down works for narrow feet or very snug-fit lovers
- Salehe Bembury collab runs narrow, true to size recommended
- Teddy Santis collabs can vary, this one felt closer to standard v2 sizing
New Balance 990v1 Sizing
The 990v1 doesn’t feel wildly different from other early 990s, but the collaborations do change things just enough that sizing is worth talking about.
Regular New Balance 990v1 Fit
For the regular 990v1, I personally like going half a size down.
My foot measures as a true size 9, slightly on the wider side. I went with an 8.5, and that gave me a clean, comfortable fit without feeling tight. It feels snug in a good way, not restrictive. The length sits right, and the shoe feels stable on foot.
If you like that one-to-one fit, half a size down works well here. If you prefer a bit more room, or you’ve always stayed true to size in New Balance, true to size is still fine. You just get a little extra space.
Teddy Santis x New Balance 990v1 Fit
The Teddy Santis 990v1 fits very similar to the regular version.
I went half a size down (8.5) here as well, and the fit felt snug and secure. No pressure points, no issues. It’s that classic Made in USA feel where the shoe wraps your foot nicely once it’s on.
So the advice stays simple:
- If you like a snug, dialed-in fit, go half a size down
- If you want more room or have wider feet, stick true to size
Carhartt WIP x New Balance 990v1 Fit
The Carhartt WIP 990v1 fits a bit differently than the regular release and the Teddy Santis version. For this one, I’d recommend sticking true to size.
I’m still a true size 9 with slightly wider feet, and while I’ve gone half size down in many other New Balance pairs, this one felt better in a size 9. Going half a size down here can feel too tight unless you have narrow feet and really like that snug feel.
The materials and construction make this pair feel a little more restrictive, so giving yourself that extra bit of space makes a difference.
Quick Breakdown
- Regular 990v1: Half size down for snug fit, true to size for room
- Teddy Santis 990v1: Same as regular, half size down works well
- Carhartt WIP 990v1: True to size recommended, half size down only for narrow feet
Women’s Sizing for the New Balance 990
Let’s set the scene with a quick example, because this makes everything easier to picture.
Imagine a woman with narrow feet, a fairly normal arch, and no major width issues. She usually wears her true size in most sneakers and doesn’t love a ton of extra space in the toe box. If that sounds like you, use this as your baseline and adjust from there.
990v1 (Women’s Fit)
If you have narrow or regular-width feet, stay true to size. The base of the shoe is a little wider than the v2, so it doesn’t feel pinched, even if your foot spreads slightly when you walk.
Now, here’s where personal habits matter. Think about socks for a second.
If you like wearing thicker socks, true to size gives you enough room to stay comfortable. If you usually wear thin socks and you like your shoes to feel more snug, you could actually get away with going half a size down.
If your feet are flat and wider, this model might push you in a different direction than someone with narrow feet. That’s normal. Foot shape changes everything.
990v2 (Women’s Fit)
The 990v2, especially the Kith collaboration, is easily the narrowest feeling of the 990 lineup. There’s very little wiggle room on either side of the shoe.
If you have narrow feet, true to size feels great here. The shoe holds your foot closely and feels secure.
If your feet are flat or wider, this model can feel tight fast. In that case, going half a size up, or even a full size up for some people, makes more sense. You’ll need that extra space along the outer side of the shoe.
990v3 (Women’s Fit)
Once you move into the 990v3, things start to feel more forgiving.
There’s more support underfoot, better arch structure, and noticeably more room compared to the v2. For most women, true to size is the safest and easiest choice.
If you like thicker socks or you enjoy having some breathing room for your toes, true to size is the move.
If you wear thin socks and like your toes sitting closer to the front of the shoe, you could consider going half a size down.
990v4 (Women’s Fit)
The 990v4 continues in the same direction as the v3.
You get more stability, more comfort, and a fit that feels balanced across the foot. For most women, true to size works best here, just like the v1 and v3.
This model doesn’t feel narrow, and it doesn’t feel overly roomy either. It lands right in the middle.
The main exception across the entire women’s 990 lineup is still the v2, which feels noticeably slimmer. Everything else gives you more flexibility.
Quick Reality Check
Before you decide, ask yourself a few things:
- Do you have narrow feet or flat, wider feet?
- Do you wear thick socks or thin socks?
- Do you like a snug fit or a bit of wiggle room?
Those answers matter just as much as the size number on the box.
NB 990 Size Chart
Men
| US Men | US Women | UK | EU | CM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5.5 | 3.5 | 36 | 22 |
| 4.5 | 6 | 4 | 37 | 22.5 |
| 5 | 6.5 | 4.5 | 37.5 | 23 |
| 5.5 | 7 | 5 | 38 | 23.5 |
| 6 | 7.5 | 5.5 | 38.5 | 24 |
| 6.5 | 8 | 6 | 39.5 | 24.5 |
| 7 | 8.5 | 6.5 | 40 | 25 |
| 7.5 | 9 | 7 | 40.5 | 25.5 |
| 8 | 9.5 | 7.5 | 41.5 | 26 |
| 8.5 | 10 | 8 | 42 | 26.5 |
| 9 | 10.5 | 8.5 | 42.5 | 27 |
| 9.5 | 11 | 9 | 43 | 27.5 |
| 10 | 11.5 | 9.5 | 44 | 28 |
| 10.5 | 12 | 10 | 44.5 | 28.5 |
| 11 | 12.5 | 10.5 | 45 | 29 |
| 11.5 | 13 | 11 | 45.5 | 29.5 |
| 12 | 13.5 | 11.5 | 46.5 | 30 |
| 12.5 | 14 | 12 | 47 | 30.5 |
| 13 | 15 | 12.5 | 47.5 | 31 |
| 14 | 13.5 | 49 | 32 | |
| 15 | 14.5 | 50 | 33 | |
| 16 | 15.5 | 51 | 34 | |
| 17 | 16.5 | 52 | 35 | |
| 18 | 17.5 | 53 | 36 | |
| 19 | 18.5 | 54 | 37 | |
| 20 | 19.5 | 55 | 38 |
Women
| US Women | US Men | UK | EU | CM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 2.5 | 2 | 34 | 21 |
| 4.5 | 3 | 2.5 | 34.5 | 21.5 |
| 5 | 3.5 | 3 | 35 | 22 |
| 5.5 | 4 | 3.5 | 36 | 22.5 |
| 6 | 4.5 | 4 | 36.5 | 23 |
| 6.5 | 5 | 4.5 | 37 | 23.5 |
| 7 | 5.5 | 5 | 37.5 | 24 |
| 7.5 | 6 | 5.5 | 38 | 24.5 |
| 8 | 6.5 | 6 | 39 | 25 |
| 8.5 | 7 | 6.5 | 40 | 25.5 |
| 9 | 7.5 | 7 | 40.5 | 26 |
| 9.5 | 8 | 7.5 | 41 | 26.5 |
| 10 | 8.5 | 8 | 41.5 | 27 |
| 10.5 | 9 | 8.5 | 42.5 | 27.5 |
| 11 | 9.5 | 9 | 43 | 28 |
| 11.5 | 10 | 9.5 | 43.5 | 28.5 |
| 12 | 10.5 | 10 | 44 | 29 |
| 12.5 | 11 | 10.5 | 45 | 29.5 |
| 13 | 11.5 | 11 | 45.5 | 30 |
| 13.5 | 12 | 11.5 | 46 | 30.5 |
| 14 | 12.5 | 12 | 46.5 | 31 |
| 15 | 13 | 13 | 48 | 32 |
NB 990 Width Chart
| Code | Men | Women's |
|---|---|---|
| 4A | — | X-Narrow |
| 2A | X-Narrow | Narrow |
| B | Narrow | Standard |
| D | Standard | Wide |
| 2E | Wide | X-Wide |
| 4E | X-Wide | XX-Wide |
| 6E | XX-Wide | — |
How to Measure Your Feet for New Balance 990 (The Easy Way)
Getting the sizing right on the New Balance 990 matters more than most sneakers. Between different versions, width options, and that slightly longer fit, a good measurement saves you from guessing.
Here’s how I do it and what actually helps.
The Best Option: Measure in Store (If You Can)
If you have access to a store that carries New Balance, this is always the easiest win.
Ask to get measured on a Brannock device and make sure you’re standing up.
Your feet spread under weight, and that changes everything. A proper measurement shows:
- Length
- Width
- Arch position
That width letter matters with the 990 series since many versions come in multiple widths. Always size for the larger foot, because almost everyone has one foot slightly bigger than the other.
How to Use a Brannock Device Correctly
If you’re using one yourself, here’s the right way:
- Stand up straight with socks on
- Slide your heel fully into the back cup
- Put full weight on the foot being measured
- Check the length at your longest toe
- Check the width across the ball of your foot
- Repeat with the other foot and use the larger reading
If your arch length measures longer than your overall foot length, that can explain why some 990s feel short or tight in the midfoot.
Measuring at Home (Still Works If You Do It Right)
This method gets you close.
What you need:
- Paper
- Pen
- Ruler or tape measure
- Wall
- The socks you actually wear
Steps:
- Place the paper against a wall
- Stand with your heel touching the wall
- Put full weight on your foot
- Mark the tip of your longest toe
- Measure from the wall to the mark
- Measure the widest part of your foot
- Repeat on the other foot and use the larger measurements
- Do this at the end of the day. Feet swell slightly, and that gives you a more realistic size.
How to Use Your Measurements for the 990
- If your length is spot on but width feels tight, don’t rush to size up in length. Try a wider width instead.
- If your length measurement puts you between sizes and you’re looking at models like the 990v6, going half a size down can make sense.
- If you like a roomier fit or wear thick socks, staying true to your measured size usually feels better.
Quick Fit Checks Before You Commit
Once you try them on:
- You want about a thumb’s width of space at the toe
- The midfoot should feel supported, not squeezed
- Heel slip should be minimal when walking
- A little snugness is normal at first. Sharp pressure is not.
Now, if you want to be extra precise, New Balance also offers a printable foot measuring PDF for men and women.
You print it at 100% scale, place your foot on the guide, and it shows your length and width in one shot. It’s especially useful for the 990 series since width matters just as much as length.
Just make sure you:
- Print it at actual size, not “fit to page”
- Measure while standing, not sitting
- Use the larger foot if your feet measure differently
It’s not a replacement for trying shoes on in store, but it’s a solid option if you’re buying online or going after a hard-to-get pair.
New Balance 990 Sizing FAQ
Do New Balance 990s fit true to size?
Generally speaking, for most people, yes, New Balance 990s fit true to size, but it depends on the version and your foot shape. Models like the v1, v3, v4, and v5 usually work well at true size if you like a bit of room. The v6 runs longer, so many people prefer going half a size down. Width also plays a big role since many 990s come in multiple width options.
Should I size up on a New Balance 990v5?
You usually don’t need to size up in the 990v5. If anything, people choose between true to size for a roomier fit or half a size down for a more snug, one-to-one feel. If you have wide feet, sticking true to size or choosing a wider width makes more sense than sizing up in length.
Does New Balance sizing run big or small?
New Balance sizing doesn’t really run small, but some models run a bit long, especially in the Made in USA line. That’s why you’ll hear people talk about going half a size down in models like the 990v3 through v6. The fit is usually consistent, just slightly longer compared to some other brands.
How much bigger is a 9.5 than a 9?
There is roughly about 1/6 of an inch in length between each half size. So the jump from a 9 to a 9.5 adds noticeable toe room. On top of that, the width across the ball of the foot increases by about 1/8 of an inch with each half size up.
That means going up half a size affects length and also gives you a bit more space width-wise, which can be helpful if you feel pressure around the forefoot.
How tight should a New Balance be?
A New Balance should feel secure but not restrictive. Your heel should stay locked in, the midfoot should feel supported, and your toes should have some room to move. A little snugness out of the box is normal, especially in Made in USA models, but you shouldn’t feel sharp pressure or numbness.
Do New Balance fit smaller than Nike?
In most cases, New Balance fits slightly longer than Nike. Many people wear the same size in both brands, but some go half a size down in New Balance if they usually wear their Nike size snug. The toe box in New Balance models also tends to feel more forgiving than many Nike silhouettes.
Is New Balance bigger or smaller than Adidas?
New Balance and Adidas are fairly close, but New Balance often feels a touch roomier, especially in the toe box. Adidas models, particularly lifestyle silhouettes, can feel narrower. If you wear the same size in Adidas and want a similar fit in New Balance, true to size usually works.
Do New Balances loosen up?
Yes, New Balance shoes do loosen up over time. The materials soften, the footbed settles, and pressure points ease with wear. That said, they don’t stretch dramatically. If a pair feels painfully tight from day one, sizing up or choosing a wider width is the better move rather than hoping for a big break-in change.
Final Thoughts
The 990 series is a rare sneaker line that actually earns its reputation. It’s super comfortable and every version has its own personality. But that also means the New Balance 990 sizing isn’t always a one-rule-fits-all situation.
Once you understand how length, width, and model differences play together, the 990 stops feeling confusing and starts feeling predictable.
Some versions run a little long. Others feel snug in the forefoot. And the width options can completely change the experience if you take advantage of them.
If there’s one takeaway, it’s this: don’t rush the sizing, especially on hype releases. Measure your feet, think about how you like your shoes to feel, and pick the size that matches your habits, not just the label.
When you get the sizing right, you’re going to keep reaching for the 990 without even thinking about it. And honestly, that’s when you know you nailed it.
If you’ve worn any 990s already, I’m curious. Did you stay true to size or go half down? Which version worked best for your feet? Drop your experience below and help the next person make the right call.