The New Balance 990 is a high-performance running sneaker. The innovative technology and cushioning made the sneaker a hit on and off the track. However, the New Balance 990 was created with performance in mind. It soon became renowned as a shoe that walked the line between performance and lifestyle. On the other hand, the New Balance 993 is made from pigskin and mesh, making it flexible, breathable, durable, and reliable. There is a lace keeper on the New Balance 993 to keep pesky shoelaces out of the way while running and extra arch support for stability.
Suppose you wonder whether there is any difference between the New Balance 990 model and the new balance 993 models; then you are in the right place. This article will look at the different features to determine which sneaker is better.
What Are the Differences between New Balance 990 and 993?
Weight
The New Balance 990 men’s version weighs about 13 oz. At the same time, the women’s version of the shoe weighs around 11 oz. This makes it slightly heavier than the ACSM’s 8-10 oz requirements.
The New Balance 993 men’s version weighs about 12-14 oz. in comparison, the women’s version weighs around 11 oz. This makes both shoes slightly heavier than the ACSM’s requirements, but this does not mean that this will be a deal-breaker for runners.
Some runners may be willing to forego the lightweight for support, stability, and extra cushioning for comfort and grip.
Midsole
When we look at the midsoles of the New Balance 993 and 990, we see the differences in the sneakers. The New Balance 993 has extra cushioning, as it has a multi-density midsole with ABZORB Dynamic Transition System (DTS) and ACTEVA cushioning, which provides a smooth transition and optimal cushioning.
Alternatively, the New Balance 990 uses ENCAP midsole technology, which comprises two different materials. The cushioning core uses soft EVA cushioning surrounded by polyurethane to provide support and durability. The sneaker also has an Ortholite insert for extra comfort and support.
Outsole
The New Balance 993 has a full-length rubber outsole and a Ndurance rubber heel. This feature provides excellent traction and shock absorption and is durable, meaning runners embrace the shoes due to their extended lifespan.
The New Balance 990, on the other hand, is made from blown rubber, and there are flex grooves for extra flexibility and traction on multiple surfaces.
Fit
The New Balance 993 is available in narrow, wide, and extra-wide. If you have wide feet, you may want to order these shoes a half size up as you may need the forefoot to be a bit snug. For women, the sneaker is available from size five to thirteen, and for men, they are available from size seven to size sixteen.
In contrast, the New Balance 990 has more width options as this sneaker is available from extra narrow to extra-wide. The sneaker also ranges in size, starting sizes seven to sixteen for men and five to thirteen for women.
Price
Keeping in mind that the New Balance 990 and 993 are remarkably similar, you find that the 993 is ten dollars more expensive than the new balance 990 on the New Balance website. You will also find the same sneakers at varying prices, some cheaper and some more expensive.
The price will depend on the retail store. It is worth shopping around before buying, but you can’t guarantee the sneaker’s authenticity if you are not buying directly from the manufacturer. Because the price is too close, it should not affect one’s choice between the two sneakers.
The Shoe Profile
The New Balance 990 has a slightly slimmer and narrower profile, whereas the 993 is somewhat chunkier.
If you are looking for a little more cushioning, it would be worth getting a New Balance 993 model. If you want a slightly lighter sneaker and not as soft, then the New Balance 990 models would be the better choice.
Slope
There is a slight difference in the slope between the New Balance 990 and 993 models. The New Balance 990 has a slope of roughly 12mm, whereas; the New Balance 993 has a slope of approximately 14mm. Both are considered high, so most people may not notice the difference.
Origin
Both the New Balance models 993 and 990 are made in America, and the 993 sports a proudly USA stars and stripes heel patch.
The New Balance 990 features the United States of America “USA” patch on the tongue that resembles the America flag.
Color Choices
The New Balance 933 running sneaker comes in thirteen different colors. However, most of them have the basic white, gray and black parts, and you will find a pop of red in some sneakers.
On the other hand, the color options for the New Balance 990 are much lesser than the New Balance 933. There are only six alternatives with no change of color on any of them. The New Balance 993 will be better if you want more color choices.
Shoe Material
The New Balance 990 is 50% synthetic pigskin and 50% mesh. Pigskin is spongy and soft; it is also very breathable and loose. The material is also lightweight and easy to take care of. However, it is not water-resistant as other materials.
On the other hand, the material of the New Balance 993 is fully premium suede and mesh. Suede looks better than pigskin. Considering how good suede looks compared to pigskin, much effort is needed to take good care of it.
The Verdict: Which is a Better Model between New Balance 990 and New Balance 993?
The two models go head to head in their superiority fight. Choosing the better model isn’t a walk in the park. However, it is worth noting that the model that works best for you can not necessarily be suitable for another runner.
Different people have different tastes, running forms, and different feet. Therefore, the features explored on this page will aid you in identifying the best model that can work best for you.
Reference 1: New Balance 990 vs 993 – Which is Better to Buy? – Shoes Every Wear
Reference 2: New Balance 990 vs 993 – Differences, Pros & Cons | Eco Footwears
