{"product_id":"new-balance-kids-990-v6-lace-up-sneaker-supportive-style-17z3","title":"New Balance Kids' 990 V6 Lace-up Sneaker - Supportive (Style 17Z3)","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn this review of the New Balance Kids' 990 V6 Lace-up Sneaker, the bottom line is clear: these are built-for-play sneakers that prioritize support and comfortable daily wear for growing feet. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of \u003cstrong\u003eFuelCell propulsion\u003c\/strong\u003e and ENCAP midsole cushioning, which together deliver a noticeably propulsive yet stable ride for kids who spend hours on their feet. The shoe balances classic 990 heritage with kid-friendly durability and a leather upper that cleans up easily after playground use.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFuelCell foam:\u003c\/strong\u003e provides a propulsive feel that helps drive forward movement and makes short bursts of running and walking feel springy and energetic.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eENCAP midsole cushioning:\u003c\/strong\u003e combines lightweight foam with a durable polyurethane rim to deliver structured, all-day support through school and play.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLeather upper:\u003c\/strong\u003e offers a tidy, durable surface that withstands daily wear while remaining easy to wipe clean.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReflective details:\u003c\/strong\u003e placed throughout the upper to increase visibility in low light for extra safety on evening walks or late afternoon play.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLace-up closure:\u003c\/strong\u003e secures the foot for a snug fit and allows small adjustments to improve comfort as feet change during growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese sneakers suit active children who need supportive, cushioned footwear for daily activities, running at recess, or organized youth sports where comfort and stability matter. Parents who value a combination of classic styling and functional midsole technology will appreciate the practical benefits for growing feet.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFamilies looking for ultra-lightweight minimalist shoes or barefoot-style footwear should look elsewhere, as the ENCAP construction and FuelCell foam give these a firmer, more supportive ride rather than an ultra-flexible feel.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003ePros \u0026amp; Cons\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePros\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSupportive ENCAP midsole offers structured cushioning that helps with foot health during extended wear.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFuelCell foam delivers a lively, propulsive sensation that makes walking and running feel easier.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLeather upper and reflective details combine durability, easy cleaning, and improved visibility.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCons\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSize feedback is mixed so parents should check fit carefully as some find them slightly roomy while others report true-to-size fit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSome customers noted occasional issues with laces coming loose, so double-knotting may be necessary for very active kids.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBrand\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNew Balance\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eModel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e990 V6 (Kids)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUpper\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLeather\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMidsole\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFuelCell foam with ENCAP cushioning\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClosure\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLace-up\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eVisibility\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eReflective details throughout upper\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\u003ch2\u003eOur Verdict\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe New Balance Kids' 990 V6 is a solid choice for parents who want a supportive, well-cushioned sneaker that holds up to daily wear and helps maintain foot comfort. Its combination of FuelCell propulsion and ENCAP stability makes it good value for active kids, though buyers should confirm fit and secure lacing for the best experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre these true to size?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFit is mixed; many find them true to size but some report a slightly roomier fit, so trying them on or checking a size guide is recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo they provide good arch support?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes, the ENCAP midsole provides structured support that helps with foot stability and everyday comfort.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre they durable for playground use?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe leather upper and reinforced midsole make them durable for regular play, though laces may need attention to prevent coming loose.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"New Balance","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48741401231579,"sku":"B0D2J317Z3","price":89.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0724\/1043\/1707\/files\/51-h05d8ptL._AC_SL1000_25805705-deff-4434-aaf1-2b1bc5e4f1d9.jpg?v=1778990153","url":"https:\/\/gearmusthave.com\/products\/new-balance-kids-990-v6-lace-up-sneaker-supportive-style-17z3","provider":"GearMustHave","version":"1.0","type":"link"}