Thoughts on the New Balance 990v5 after 2 years: Comfort and concerns about creases

I like sneakers well enough, but I've realized that the shoes I actually wear often are quite limited.
Even if I like the design, if they are uncomfortable to walk in, I won't wear them as much.
Conversely, I find myself reaching for shoes that are easy to style and comfortable for long walks over and over again.
In that regard, I've been wearing the New Balance 990v5 quite a bit over the last two years.
While it is a classic model, after wearing it for two years, I found both aspects that are truly easy to use and aspects that are a bit concerning.
In this post, I'll share my thoughts on the New Balance 990v5 after two years of use from the perspective of an office worker at a general IT company.

The 990v5 is a very "normally easy-to-use" sneaker

The thing I feel most when wearing the New Balance 990v5 is that it has very few quirks, in a good way.
It's not too flashy.
But it doesn't look cheap either.
It's not too casual, and it's fairly easy to pair with dressier clothes.
I think this balance is excellent.
For an office worker's daily life, clothing tends to vary, with office casual on weekdays and denim or sweatshirts on weekends.
The 990v5 blends into both quite naturally.
Especially the gray or navy New Balance models don't stand out too much, making them easy to match with the clothes I already own.

There is a v6 series that succeeds the v5, but personally, I prefer the look of the v5.
I also wear the v6 in a different color, but I recommend the v5 for its more "basic" feel.

I couldn't confirm stock on the official New Balance website...

Even after 2 years, I don't wear them any less

With sneakers, I get excited and wear them a lot right after buying them, but sometimes I find myself wearing them less after about six months.
In that respect, I'm still wearing the 990v5 normally even after two years.
The reason is simple: they are easy to walk in.
Days when I walk to the station, days when I go out, days when I'll be walking a lot for shopping.
On those days, it's easy to choose them, thinking, "These shoes will do for today."
Personally, the peace of mind that they won't tire me out is greater than the satisfaction of how they look.
They are also very reliable for travel or business trips where I don't know how much I'll be walking.

I'm grateful that they don't limit my clothing choices

I think the 990v5 is a sneaker that is easier to use for walking around town than for actual sports.
They don't look out of place with slacks, and they look quite natural with denim or chinos.
They are also easy to use with casual weekend outfits.
Of course, they aren't the kind of shoes you'd look for if you want the dressy feel of leather shoes.
However, I think they are in the category of sneakers that look sophisticated.
Shoes that are easy to choose when you're wondering "what should I wear today" end up being worn more frequently.
The 990v5 was exactly that type.

A point of concern: creases on the upper

The thing that concerns me most after two years of use is the creasing on the upper.
This depends on the material and how you walk, but my 990v5 has some wrinkles around the instep.
If you like the pristine condition of a new pair, this might bother you.
However, as it is a natural sign of aging for sneakers, I personally see it as "character."
That said, if you want to keep them looking clean, brushing them lightly after wearing them or using shoe trees might change the impression a bit.

If you just want to smooth out the wrinkles, plastic shoe trees are fine, right?

Also, I'm concerned about the heel wearing down, so I've applied the heel protectors introduced in this article.

The price isn't cheap. But it's easy to justify when you consider how often you use them

The New Balance 990 series is by no means cheap among sneakers.
Honestly, I think it's a price range that makes you hesitate a bit when buying them for the first time.
However, my impression after wearing them for two years is that it makes sense when you consider the frequency of use.
If it's a shoe you only wear occasionally, it feels a bit expensive, but if you wear it many times on weekends or when going out, the satisfaction per wear is high.
"I like how they look, they are easy to walk in, and they are easy to match with clothes."
Shoes that have these three qualities surprisingly last a long time.

I think they are suitable for these kinds of people

I think the 990v5 is a great fit for the following people:
・People looking for comfortable sneakers to walk in
・People who want to use them not only on weekends but also for commuting and walking around town
・People who want classic sneakers that aren't too flashy
・People looking for shoes that are easy to pair with slacks and denim
・People who want a pair that will last a long time
Especially for those who "like sneakers but find it hard to use flashy ones," I think they are just right.

Conversely, it might not be for everyone

On the other hand, I can't say it's recommended for everyone.
・People who want to keep their shoes looking brand new for a long time
・People who are very concerned about creases and signs of wear
・People who prioritize lightness above all else when choosing sneakers
・People who want to keep the price as low as possible
・People who want a more trendy design
While the 990v5 is quite versatile, it is by no means a "cheap shoe you can wear casually and roughly."
Also, because it is simple and classic, it might feel a bit underwhelming for those looking for sneakers with a strong personality.

Summary: A pair you can still rely on even after 2 years

The New Balance 990v5 is a sneaker that I still find myself reaching for even after 2 years.
Rather than a shoe for special occasions, it's one I naturally choose for everyday life.
It's easy to walk in, easy to style, and easy to use for a long time.
Of course, there are parts that bother me, like the creases on the upper.
It's not possible to keep them looking brand new forever.
Even so, after actually wearing them for 2 years, I can say it's a pair I'm glad I bought.
I think this model is a strong contender for those who prioritize daily usability over a bold statement in their sneakers.

※This article contains Amazon Associate links. I introduce products mainly based on my own experience using them.

Last updated: 2026/05/29