New Balance Kids' 990 V6 Lace-up Sneaker - Supportive (Style 2PMV)

In this review of the New Balance Kids' 990 V6 Lace-up Sneaker the bottom line is straightforward: this shoe is for parents who want a supportive, well-made everyday sneaker for active kids. The most compelling reason to buy is the combination of FuelCell foam propulsion with ENCAP midsole cushioning, which together deliver comfortable, forward-driving energy and durable underfoot support that suits school days, playgrounds and casual sports. The leather upper and reflective details add durability and visibility without sacrificing the tidy, classic look familiar from the 990 lineage.

Key Features

• Leather upper: Provides a durable, easy-to-clean exterior that holds shape through regular wear and lends a classic finish to kids outfits.
• FuelCell foam: Delivers a propulsive feel that helps drive forward motion, making walking and light running feel more energetic for small feet.
• ENCAP midsole cushioning: Combines lightweight foam with a durable polyurethane rim to give all-day support and stability during active play.
• Reflective details: Increase visibility in low light for added safety on early mornings or evenings without changing the shoe's streamlined look.
• Lace-up closure: Ensures a secure fit that can be adjusted as a child grows or when switching between socks and insoles.

Who It's For

The 990 V6 for kids is best for parents seeking a long-lasting, supportive sneaker that covers everyday needs: school, playground activity and casual weekend wear. Its combination of cushioning and a sturdy leather upper suits children who spend lots of time on their feet and benefit from stable midsoles.

It may be less suitable for families who prefer very lightweight mesh trainers for high-performance sprinting or for those who need an ultra-wide last; some customers noted slight variation in how sizes fit. Shoppers wanting a barefoot feel or extremely flexible soles should look elsewhere.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable ride thanks to the FuelCell foam and supportive ENCAP construction.
• Durable leather upper that stands up to everyday wear and is easy to keep tidy.
• Reflective accents add safety without compromising style.
• Secure lace-up closure that keeps the shoe comfortably on the foot.

Cons

• Sizing can run inconsistently between kids; some find them true to size while others report they run a bit big.
• The leather upper makes the shoe sturdier but less breathable than lighter mesh alternatives.

Specifications

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

Our Verdict

The New Balance Kids' 990 V6 is a smart pick for parents who want a supportive, durable everyday sneaker that promotes comfortable walking and active play. With its combination of FuelCell propulsion and ENCAP cushioning, it offers good value for families seeking long-lasting support and classic styling, provided you check sizing before committing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these run true to size?
Customers report mixed experiences; some find the fit true to size while others say they run a bit big, so try before you buy if possible.

Are they suitable for sports?
They are suited to everyday sports and active play thanks to cushioning and support, but not designed as specialized performance cleats or sprint spikes.

How durable is the upper?
The leather upper is durable and holds up well to regular use, while being easier to clean than cloth alternatives.