Review: Bodega x New Balance 990v3 "Anniversary"

Check out our first impressions of the Bodega x New Balance 990v3 “Anniversary” (M990BD3) and get more info on the quality, comfort, and sizing of this groundbreaking retro runner.

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Video Review:

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The 990 Heritage!

Originally released back in 2012, the New Balance 990v3 is the third iteration of the highly-acclaimed 990 heritage series that was birthed back in 1982 with the introduction of the original 990v1.

Although many years have passed since the OGs dropped, one thing remains constant — There New Balance 990 series holds a permanent place of relevancy within sneaker culture.

Celebrating the 15th “Anniversary” of Bodega’s existence, the recent offering from the East Coast retailers and New Balance further confirms this truth and delivers in a major way.

Quality

Bodega x New Balance 990v3 "Anniversary"

How Good are The Materials?

When it comes to the materials, New Balance models like the 990v3 — which are made in US — are the cream of the crop and this collab drop is no exeption. The design team incorporated both new and familiar materials and design elements to create a colorway worthy of admiration.

• Pigskin Suede The majority of this shoe’s upper is comprised of an olive pigskin suede that comes in varying shades and textures. Longer-haired suede appears on the lateral side of the sneaker, while a smoother and darker suede adorns the medial suede. Covering the heel is an even longer-haired suede that screams quality.

• Textile Mesh Keeping true to this shoes running heritage, lightweight and breathable mesh appears on the toebox, midfoot, and heel area in an olive shade that blends well with the pigskin suede. It has a nice sheen that adds a subtle touch of visual interest to the shoe.

• Reflective 3M In classic New Balance fashion, hits of 3M are placed on the toe, medial and lateral “N” logo, and back heel of the shoe.

• Synthetic Overlays A signature trademark of the newer V2 and later models of the 990, perforated light olive overlays adorns the toe area and provide a subtle accent that is wisely executed.

Comfort

Bodega x New Balance 990v3 "Anniversary"

How Good Is the Comfort?

It’s well-known around the sneaker world that New Balance pumps out some amazingly comfortable sneakers and the 990v3 can easily be included in that list. This sneakers running shoe roots immediately becomes apparent when wearing them on-feet as it provides alightweight, breathable, and stable silhouette meant to be work all-day if necessary.

• Midsole Comfort You most likely won’t be blown away by this shoe’s step-in feel immediately, but over time you’ll appreciate the Encap cushioning technology this sneaker offers. It’s not as soft as Nike React or Adidas Boost, but it maintains a consistent level of cushioning and stability mile after mile.

• Upper Comfort The suede and mesh upper combo is simple, yet effective in keeping your feet nice and comfy during wears. The mesh toebox adds an acceptable amount of breathability to the shoe which helps prevent overheating. Also, the heel support system in the back keeps your foot secure and stable while walking or running.

Sizing

Bodega x New Balance 990v3 "Anniversary"

How does the new balance 990v3 Fit?

New Balance is know for making roomier shoe’s that offer more stability than comparable shoe’s from other brands and the 990v3 is not exception.

Having said that, it may be deemed appropriate for most wearers to go a half-size down from their normal running shoe size to prevent heel slippage when wearing this shoe.

It you’re familiar with the fit of other New Balance 990 models, I would suggest going with the same size you’d get in a 990v5 or v4 model.

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YOUR TURN

Let me know what you think about this sneaker in the comments below!