Our verdict

84
Good!

A favorite go-to shoe by many since ’88, the New Balance 996 has been in the market providing functionality to wearers without sacrificing style. Like any NB Classic, it flaunts a fresh look of an old-school shoe that goes well with almost anything. Those who have tried on and tested a pair are generally impressed with its superior quality, supportive fit, and overall comfort.

product eng 1023611 Womens sneakers New Balance Pros

  • Classic design
  • Soft wrap
  • Great-value
  • Affordable
  • Grippy
  • Lightweight

product eng 1023611 Womens sneakers New Balance Cons

  • Narrow fit
  • Lacks cushioning

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The 996 from New Balance is a great match for sneaker fans who: 

  • want an affordable shoe with great qualities
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  • need a pair of classic shoes from New Balance
  • want surefooted steps on the pavement

New Balance 996 new balance 996

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If you have wide feet, you can skip the NB 996. Instead, you can go for New Balance's wide shoes. And if you want something that doesn't dig deep into the pockets, get the NB 574 or the NB 505.

New Balance 996 new balance

Ronnie Fieg New Balance 998

Many reviewers appreciate the classic appeal of the New Balance 996. According to them, it's perfect for just about any outfit. 

New Balance 996 forefoot

An upper that loves the foot

It's "soft" and "well-padded;" a lot of testers find it "cozy" to wear. 

New Balance 996 collar

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The $90 price tag of the New Balance 996 is worth it, given its superior quality and durability. 

New Balance 996 lockdown

Even more, many are pleased that it looks and delivers the same as how it is described online. So much so, long-time fans purchase it year after year. 

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New Balance 996 v2 KHAKI Marathon Running Shoes Sneakers CM996WE2. 

New Balance 996 outsole

Won't drag the foot down

This particular shoe is lightweight compared to salehe bembury x new balance yurt intel jacket, according to the majority.

New Balance 996 cushion

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Compared to other NB models, the New Balance 996's forefoot is a tad narrow. 

New Balance 996 toe room

Lackluster stability

"It could use a little more cushioning." 

New Balance 996 midsole

This is what critics have to say about the New Balance 996: "Underfoot, there's very little support"; "missteps are inevitable." 

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  • In 2006, New Balance collaborated with two Japanese retailers, Whiz Limited and Mita Sneakers in dressing up the classic 996. The Whiz Limited x Mita Sneakers x New Balance 996 features shades of brown leather, off-white accents, and vibrant orange suede upper on the toe cap. The perforation details were updated to three small stars.  
  • New Balance also collaborated with J. Crew for the 996 model. In July 2015, the “Neptune Blue” colorway was released, which features different shades of blue in suede and date upper.

New Balance 996 ankle collar