New Balance Kids' 990 V6 Lace-up Sneaker - Supportive, Cushioned Girls

Our review finds the New Balance Kids' 990 V6 lace-up sneaker best suited for active children who need supportive, comfortable shoes for daily wear. In this review the shoe stands out because its combination of FuelCell foam and ENCAP midsole provides both a propulsive feel and lasting support, which is the single biggest reason to buy for parents focused on foot health and all-day comfort. The leather upper and reflective details also make it durable and safe for low-light outings.

Key Features

• FuelCell foam: Delivers a propulsive feel that helps kids maintain forward motion during play and walks.
• ENCAP midsole cushioning: Combines lightweight foam with a durable polyurethane rim to provide structured, all-day support.
• Leather upper: Offers a durable, easy-to-clean surface that holds up to everyday activity.
• Reflective details: Improve visibility in low light for safer outdoor wear.
• Lace-up closure: Ensures a secure, adjustable fit that keeps the foot stable during active use.

Who It's For

These sneakers are aimed at parents who want a supportive, comfortable shoe for children who run, walk, and play regularly. The combination of cushioning and structure makes them a strong choice for kids whose footwear needs to balance comfort and foot health, including those who spend long days on their feet at school or during extracurricular activities.

Parents looking for an ultra-lightweight or minimalist style, or those who need specialty sports cleats or sandals, should look elsewhere. While versatile, this shoe is designed as an everyday athletic sneaker rather than a fashion-only or sport-specific performance shoe.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable cushioning from the FuelCell foam that helps with forward motion and walking comfort.
• Solid support and durability thanks to the ENCAP midsole construction.
• Leather upper and reflective details combine durability with added safety.

Cons

• Size feedback is mixed, so trying on or checking fit recommendations is advisable before purchase.
• Some customers report occasional issues with laces coming loose, so parents may want to double-knot for active kids.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	990 V6 (Kids)
Upper material	Leather
Midsole	ENCAP cushioning with FuelCell foam
Closure	Lace-up
Safety feature	Reflective details on upper

Our Verdict

The New Balance Kids' 990 V6 is a strong everyday athletic sneaker for children who need a balance of comfort and support. With its FuelCell foam and ENCAP midsole, it supports foot health and handles regular activity, making it good value for parents who prioritize durability and all-day comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these true to size?
Fit is reported as mixed; some find them true to size while others find them slightly roomy, so trying on is recommended.

Do they offer good support for walking?
Yes. The ENCAP midsole combined with FuelCell foam provides structured cushioning that supports walking and everyday activity.

Are they safe for low-light use?
Yes. Reflective details throughout the upper improve visibility during low-light conditions.