New Balance Kids' 990 V6 Lace-up Sneaker - Supportive (Style JH24)

Our review of the New Balance Kids' 990 V6 Lace-up Sneaker finds it best suited for active children who need durable daily footwear with supportive cushioning. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of propulsive FuelCell foam and ENCAP midsole cushioning that delivers both forward drive and stable, all-day support. The leather upper and reflective details make it a practical choice for school, play, and short runs, while the lace-up closure keeps the fit secure for daylong wear.

Key Features

• FuelCell foam: Provides a propulsive feel that helps drive kids forward during play and short runs.
• ENCAP midsole cushioning: Combines lightweight foam with a durable polyurethane rim to deliver stable, all-day support for growing feet.
• Leather upper: Offers a clean, durable surface that stands up to daily wear and is easy to wipe clean.
• Reflective details: Improve visibility in low light for walkers and runners coming to and from school.
• Lace-up closure: Allows a customizable, secure fit so the shoe stays comfortably in place during activity.

Who It's For

The 990 V6 is ideal for parents seeking a supportive, everyday athletic shoe for active kids who split time between school, playgrounds, and short-distance running. The blend of cushioning and a stable ENCAP rim makes it a sensible option for children who benefit from extra foot support and for families who value a cleaner-looking leather upper.

Those looking for a lightweight minimalist sneaker or a highly flexible barefoot shoe should look elsewhere, as the ENCAP support structure and leather upper prioritize stability and durability over extreme flexibility or ultralight weight.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, propulsive ride thanks to the FuelCell foam.
• Reliable support from the ENCAP midsole construction for long wear periods.
• Durable leather upper with reflective details for practical everyday use.

Cons

• Size runs mixed for some shoppers, so trying on for fit is recommended.
• Some customers report occasional issues with laces coming loose, which may affect perceived sturdiness.

Specifications

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

Our Verdict

The New Balance Kids' 990 V6 is a smart choice for parents who want a supportive, well-cushioned shoe that holds up to daily use and helps with foot comfort. It balances propulsive FuelCell foam responsiveness with durable ENCAP support, making it good value for active kids who need steady performance and reliable construction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these true to size?
Fit is generally close to true to size, but some customers find them slightly roomy, so trying them on is advised.

Is the shoe good for running?
Yes, it is suitable for short runs and active play thanks to FuelCell foam, though it emphasizes support over minimalist speed running.

Can the leather upper be cleaned easily?
Yes, the leather upper wipes clean and holds up well to everyday wear with normal care.