If you are looking to buy a new pair of shoes, you may be wondering which of New Balance’s popular 990 sneakers is right for you. Should you choose the 990v3, or the 990v5? In this article, we will compare the two models of shoes to help you decide which one is best for you. We will look at the materials used, the design features, and the overall comfort of the two shoes. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the differences between the 990v3 and the 990v5, and which one should be your next pair of shoes.
| New Balance 990v3 | New Balance 990v5 |
|---|---|
| Premium pigskin leather uppers | Premium pigskin leather uppers |
| Abzorb midsole cushioning | Abzorb cushioning |
| ENCAP midsoles for support | ENCAP midsoles for support |
| Reflective details | Reflective details |
| Non-marking rubber outsoles | Non-marking rubber outsoles |
The New Balance 990v3 and the 990v5 both feature premium pigskin leather uppers, Abzorb cushioning, ENCAP midsoles for support, reflective details, and non-marking rubber outsoles. The 990v3 features Abzorb midsole cushioning, while the 990v5 features Abzorb cushioning.
New Balance 990v3 Vs 990v5: Comparison Chart
| New Balance 990v3 Vs 990v5 | |
|---|---|
| Upper | Mesh and synthetic leather construction for 990v3 and synthetic, leather, and engineered mesh construction for 990v5 |
| Midsole | Blown rubber and ENCAP midsole cushioning in the 990v3 and ENCAP midsole cushioning with softer foam in the 990v5 |
| Outsole | Blown rubber outsole in the 990v3 and rubber outsole with flex grooves in the 990v5 |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 12mm in the 990v3 and 10mm in the 990v5 |
| Weight | 13.4 ounces for 990v3 and 12.2 ounces for 990v5 |
| Price | $164.95 for the 990v3 and $174.95 for the 990v5 |
New Balance 990v3 Vs 990v5
New Balance has been a leader in the running shoe market for decades. The 990 series is one of their most popular lines, offering a wide range of styles and features for runners of all levels. The v3 and v5 are two of the latest styles, and there are some notable differences between the two.
Upper Construction
The upper on the 990v3 is constructed with a combination of mesh and synthetic leather materials. This allows the shoe to be lightweight and breathable, while still providing adequate support. The v5 has a slightly different design, utilizing a combination of mesh, synthetic leather, and suede materials. This adds a bit of extra durability to the shoe, while still providing the same level of breathability and support as the v3.
The lacing system is also different between the two models. The v3 has a traditional lacing system, with the laces running through eyelets on the sides of the shoe. The v5 has a bootie construction, with the laces running through a single piece of material on the tongue of the shoe. This provides a snugger fit and allows the shoe to better conform to the shape of the foot.
The tongue on the v3 is lightly padded for comfort, while the v5 has a much thicker tongue for additional cushioning. The heel collar also has a slightly different design, with the v5 having a bit more padding for added support.
Midsole Construction
The midsole of the 990v3 is constructed with New Balance’s signature ENCAP technology. This technology uses a combination of EVA foam and a polyurethane core to provide cushioning and support. The v5 has a slightly different construction, utilizing a combination of EVA foam and a new foam called Fresh Foam. This foam is designed to provide more responsive cushioning and support than the ENCAP technology.
The outsole of the v3 is constructed with a blown rubber compound, which provides traction and durability. The v5 has a slightly different outsole, utilizing a combination of blown rubber and a new rubber compound called Ndurance. This new compound is designed to provide more grip and durability than the blown rubber.
The heel of the v3 has a bit more padding than the v5, which helps to provide a bit of cushioning and shock absorption. The v5 has a slightly firmer heel, which helps to provide a bit more stability.
Weight
The v3 is slightly lighter than the v5, with the men’s model weighing in at 10.3 ounces and the women’s model weighing in at 9.3 ounces. The v5 is a bit heavier, with the men’s model weighing in at 11.6 ounces and the women’s model weighing in at 10.6 ounces.
Price
The price of the v3 and v5 are fairly similar, with the v3 being slightly less expensive. The men’s model of the v3 is currently priced at $159.95, while the v5 is priced at $169.95. The women’s models are similarly priced, with the v3 being priced at $149.95 and the v5 being priced at $159.95.
Style
The v3 and v5 have a very similar style, but there are some slight differences. The v3 has a more traditional look, with the upper having a slightly more solid construction. The v5 has a slightly more modern look, with the upper having a more lightweight and breathable construction.
The colorways for the v3 and v5 are also slightly different. The v3 is available in a range of classic colors, such as black, white, and grey. The v5 is available in a range of more modern colors, such as blue, purple, and pink.
Performance
The performance of the v3 and v5 are very similar, with both offering a good combination of cushioning and support. The v5 is slightly more responsive than the v3, with the new foam providing more energy return and a smoother ride.
The v3 is better suited for runners who prefer a more traditional feel, while the v5 is better suited for runners who want a more modern feel. Both shoes offer a good level of cushioning and support, so it really comes down to personal preference.
Durability
The v3 and v5 are both very durable shoes, with the v5 being slightly more durable due to the upgraded materials. The outsole of the v5 is also more durable than the outsole of the v3, due to the new Ndurance rubber compound.
Overall, both shoes are very durable and offer good long-term performance. The v5 is slightly more durable due to the upgraded materials, but the v3 is still a very durable shoe.
New Balance 990v3 Vs 990v5 Pros & Cons
Pros for New Balance 990v3
- Lightweight design
- Breathable mesh upper
- Sturdy rubber outsole
- Easily adjustable laces
Cons for New Balance 990v3
- No extra cushioning
- Sizing runs small
- Expensive
Pros for New Balance 990v5
- Extra cushioning
- Improved fit
- Comfortable upper
- Sturdy rubber outsole
Cons for New Balance 990v5
- Expensive
- Heavyweight design
- Sizing runs small
New Balance 990v3 vs 990v5 – Final Decision
The New Balance 990v3 and 990v5 are two great options for those in need of a reliable running shoe. Both offer a comfortable fit, good cushioning, support, and durability. However, when it comes to deciding which is the better option, there are a few factors to consider.
The 990v5 is the newer version of the two, offering more cushioning and a more breathable upper. The 990v3 however is slightly lighter and more minimal in its design. Depending on your individual needs, either could be the better option.
Ultimately, the best choice comes down to personal preference. However, based on the features of each shoe, here are three reasons why the New Balance 990v5 might be the better choice:
- The 990v5 offers more cushioning and a more breathable upper.
- The 990v5 is slightly more durable, with a higher quality rubber outsole.
- The 990v5 is more modern and stylish, with its sleek design.
For these three reasons, the New Balance 990v5 is the better choice. It provides cushioning, breathability, durability, and a modern design that is sure to last for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
New Balance 990v3 and 990v5 are two popular sneaker models of the brand. This article answers some of the frequently asked questions about these two models.
What are the main differences between the 990v3 and 990v5?
The 990v3 is the third version of the popular 990 sneaker. It features a leather upper with a supportive midsole and a rubber outsole. The 990v5 is the fifth version and it has a mesh upper and improved cushioning. The 990v3 is more classic and traditional in design, while the 990v5 has a more modern and athletic look.
The 990v5 also has improved cushioning for a more comfortable fit. The cushioning is based on the ABZORB technology, which provides shock absorption and stability for the foot. The midsole is also wider for a more stable ride. The 990v3 and 990v5 are both very comfortable, but the 990v5 provides slightly better cushioning.
Which one is more durable?
Both the 990v3 and 990v5 are made with high-quality materials, so they are both very durable. The 990v3 is made with leather, which is known for its durability, while the 990v5 is made with a mesh upper, which is also very durable. The 990v5 also has a sturdier midsole than the 990v3, which makes it more durable.
The 990v3 has a rubber outsole, which is also very durable, but the 990v5 has an improved rubber outsole which is even more durable. Overall, both the 990v3 and 990v5 are very durable, but the 990v5 may be slightly more so.
Which one is better for running?
The 990v3 and 990v5 are both great for running. The 990v3 is lightweight and has a supportive midsole and a rubber outsole for a comfortable ride. The 990v5 also has a lightweight design and improved cushioning for a more comfortable fit. The 990v5 also has an improved midsole and outsole, which makes it more stable and durable.
Overall, the 990v5 may be slightly better for running as it offers better cushioning and stability. However, both shoes are great for running and will provide a comfortable ride.
Which one is more expensive?
The 990v3 and 990v5 are both reasonably priced. The 990v3 is usually more affordable, while the 990v5 is slightly more expensive. The 990v5 is more expensive due to the improved cushioning and durability.
The price difference between the two models is not very significant and both shoes offer great value for money. The 990v3 and 990v5 are both great shoes and are priced reasonably.
Which one is better for everyday use?
Both the 990v3 and 990v5 are great for everyday use. The 990v3 has a classic and traditional design, which makes it suitable for everyday use. The 990v5 is more modern and athletic in design, which makes it suitable for everyday wear.
The 990v5 also has improved cushioning for a more comfortable fit. The cushioning is based on the ABZORB technology, which provides shock absorption and stability for the foot. The 990v5 may be slightly better for everyday use, but both shoes are very comfortable and suitable for everyday wear.
NB 990v5 vs NB 993. Which one is better? + On-Feet Look
In conclusion, the New Balance 990v3 and 990v5 both provide consumers with exceptional comfort, durability, and style, making them two of the best running shoes on the market. While they share many similarities, the 990v3 features a classic look with a lightweight design, while the 990v5 offers more cushioning and support. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what works best for your individual running needs.
