New Balance 992
Verdict from 100+ user reviews
8 reasons to buy
- Numerous reviewers state that the New Balance 992 delivers in terms of comfort and style.
- This fits right into the dad shoe trend but still looks dope, shares some users.
- A handful of buyers find the design and construction of this low-top classic.
- Some wearers note that despite the chunky build, the 992 looks sleek on the feet.
- Most of the shoe testers describe the comfort it provides even after wearing it for hours.
- This retro-looking sneaker feels lightweight, according to a few consumers.
- Several buyers note that the NB992 is more comfortable than the NB 991.
- Copping this pair is worth the price, mentions many collectors.
4 reasons not to buy
- Many reviewers mention that their pair has visible glue stains near the midsole panel.
- A few buyers describe some seeable loose thread in some parts of the shoe.
- Some shoe aficionados do not like the long laces the NB992 has.
- It is not easy to buy this trainer as they sell out quickly.
Bottom line
Best price from 30 shops
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37% say it's too small, 61% say it's true to size.
Overview of this review
Size and fit
Much like New Balance’s running-inspired silhouettes, sizing for NB992 is available for both men and women. The forefoot on the 992s is a tad bit wider, so most reviews recommend going half a size down for wide-footed or a full size down for narrow-footed wearers.
The breathable mesh not only helps with foot ventilation, but it also allows for a short break-in period. Textile lining on the padded heel and tongue allows for added cushioning and support.
New Balance 992 Style
A favored shoe by the late Apple CEO Steve Jobs during product launches, it is known that NB 992 was by far his favorite model of the 99x series.
The signature gray colorway that the NB99x series is popular for and the tonal tan hue reflects Apple’s technological advancement. While the multi-colorways selection is to attract sneaker collectors or the more fashion-forward individuals. Additionally, one can always play it safe with the black-and-white pair.
Notable Features
Visible on the lateral side are ABZORB SBS details on the back heel and forefoot that provide optimal shock absorption which does not deteriorate and flatten over time.
Simply felt by the wearer is the ENCAP midsole incorporated with Ndurance technology. These two technologies combined affords ample cushioning without sacrificing flexibility while ensuring maximum durability in high wear areas. This is all emphasized with a TPU heel piece along with the New Balance branding.
New Balance 992 History
The New Balance 99x series has spawned a cult in recent years due to the rise of sneakerheads and the ever-evolving technology.
Introducing the first NB990 in 1982 as a running shoe, the Boston-based manufacturer boasted of optimum running posture featuring the perfect balance between stability and cushioning. It features the Motion Control Device (MCD) technology, a three-layer midsole, and a Superflex outsole with a carbon rubber heel pad. The NB 990 became a hit for the technology and the reasonable price tag.
Shoe meets technology
Along with the evolution of shoe technology, digital technology was also on the rise. Among the key players, Apple CEO Steve Jobs has started gaining attention by creating gizmos that successfully combine form and function.
The story has it that Jobs wrote to New Balance owner Jim Davis asking for a “more sporty and hip” shoe that he can wear outside his leather pairs. Included in the letter was a rough sketch, which became the basis for the designers in the shoe company.
Dad-style is the new cool
Jobs continued on to be a renowned tech visionary and trended the minimal fashion every time he addressed the crowd for a product launch. His signature look -- circle-rimmed glasses, plain black turtle long-sleeve shirt, acid wash Levi’s 501 straight-cut denim, and a pair of grey New Balance shoes -- became a fashion statement in itself. And soon, people from all walks of life were abuzz with the fact that dad shoes can be synonymous with cool.
NB 992 for 100
To celebrate New Balance’s 100th anniversary in 2006, they released the NB992. It is said that Jobs himself had a hand in the design of this commemorative model. After the release, Jobs was seen sporting the 992.
Years after the first release of the New Balance 992, the company has decided to launch a reissue on January 15, 2020, with more additional colorways and collaborations to come.
Nice to know
- Tonal colorways feature two-tone midsoles, while the colorful one has plain white midsoles.
- The grey and tan colorways have reflective hints on the “N” logo sidewalls, 992 on the lateral counter, and lacing area.
Rankings
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