A new year means new sneakers (right?). New Balance kicks things off for the first quarter of the year with a silhouette they debuted late last year, the X-90.
Through the 1980s, New Balance released updated versions of the formula established by the 990, giving rise to an expanded line that became known as the 99x series. While all three iterations that released in the first decade were all success stories, it wasn’t until the 90s that the 99x series really hit its stride. It’s this generation of game-changing designs that has directly inspired the X-90.
From the 997’s ‘Hytrel strap’ from 1990, to the 991’s midsole window that debuted in 2001, the design references built into the X-90 span an entire decade of 99x evolutionary history. But the X-90 isn’t a one-note retro throwback. In keeping with contemporary standards of comfort and all-round wearability, the X-90 is infused with modern shoe tech engineered with an easy-going lifestyle focus.
Expected in early February, the 997H is hitting our floor. The original 997 first saw the light of day during the dawn of the ‘90s, and with it came a plethora of technological advancements on its predecessors, the pigskin suede uppers were introduced to a saw-tooth instep and thermoplastic Hytrel Strap system across the midfoot lock; paired with an ENCAP sole unit, triple density innersole and XAR-100 rubber outsole for the ultimate in underfoot comfort.
Rehashing the silhouette once more, the 997H updates the model once more, this time rolling out a synthetic leather, mesh and suede option in more accessible price bracket, complete with a GCEVA construction and improved outsole. While the 997H might not be as premium as the Made in USA versions, it will definitely be more affordable.
