![[CM996SMG] Mens New Balance 996](https://i.ebayimg.com/thumbs/images/g/kJgAAOSwoURmF8zz/s-l300.jpg)
Step Back in Time With Men's New Balance 996 Sneakers
Founded as the New Balance Arch Support Company by William Riley in 1906, New Balances original focus was on manufacturing and selling arch support and other orthotics. It wasnt until 1961 that the first New Balance sneaker was designed. Eleanor and Paul Kidd, the married owners of the company, designed the New Balance Trackster sneaker in their own home. The rippled-sole running shoe was offered in a variety of widthsan unheard of notion at the timeto accommodate a variety of runners. The New Balance 996 men's sneakers are direct descendants of these shoes.
When was the New Balance 996 sneaker released?
The New Balance 996 running sneaker was released in 1988, and its big selling point was that it was Made in America. These retro classic shoes are a part of the 990 series, which was conceptualized in 1978. It would take over four years of development and research before the first shoe in this series was released. There have been multiple releases and collaborations of the New Balance 996 suede sneakers, including the 30th Anniversary shoes featuring the original two colorways grey and black.
Are these sneakers solely for running?
Though these sneakers feature many designs that runners can appreciate, they are also for those who must be on their feet for long hours each day. In fact, some of William Rileys first and most prevalent New Balance arch support customers were police officers who spent the majority of the day on their feet. The ENCAP cushion along with the option for wide-width shoes makes the New Balance 996 a comfortable shoe choice for hard-to-fit-feet. These sneakers can also be worn as fashion shoes because of their streamlined look and retro vibe.
What features are on the New Balance 996 sneakers?
New Balance sneakers come in a variety of widths from narrow to extra-wide. This gives those who have extra-wide feet many more comfort options when choosing shoes. Additionally, you will find that the New Balance 996 sneakers feature heritage-influenced suede and mesh uppers. At 12.4 ounces, it is a relatively lightweight shoe. A few other features you will find on the New Balance 996 sneakers include:
- ENCAP sole technology in which a softer, wedge cushion is encased in a more rigid polyurethane shell for stability and comfort
- N logo on both sides of shoe
- Two-tone soles with new balance inscribed
- Padded tongue and heel collar
- Standard lace-up closure
What colorways are available?
The majority of these sneakers, known for their low-key style, are available in muted colors like grey, blue, tan, or black. The 30th Anniversary models are in both grey and black. It is possible to find some New Balance 996 sneakers made in collaboration with other companies that come in different colors.
New Balance 996 vs. Onitsuka Tiger MOAL 77 vs. Nike Air Tailwind 79 :
| New Balance 996 | Onitsuka Tiger MOAL 77 | Nike Air Tailwind 79 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generations |
Part of 990 series;
multiple releases |
1; updated release
of Onitsuka Tiger Montreal |
Rerelease of original
Nike Tailwind |
| Closure | Traditional lace-up | Traditional lace-up | Traditional lace-up |
| Upper Materials |
Suede leather and
mesh |
Suede with synthetic
overlays |
Suede, nylon, and
synthetic overlays |
| Activity | Running, lifestyle | Light running, lifestyle | Light running, lifestyle |
Do these sneakers fit true to size?
These sneakers fit true to size to just a bit snug. Because they are made of suede, there is the possibility of stretching. New Balance offers a variety of widths, including narrow, regular, wide, and extra-wide widths. For additional sizing information, please check the manufacturers site.
Content provided for informational purposes only. eBay is not affiliated with or endorsed by New Balance, Onitsuka Tiger, or Nike.
New Balance Release Dates, News and Articles
Discover the latest New Balance news, releases and guides on the eBay Sneakers Hub Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the game, you'll find everything you need to know about the brand's iconic designs and limited-edition drops.