New Balance 890v6 Review

Due to vigorous demand, New Balance is resurrecting the 890 model with significant updates from top to bottom. Providing runners with the same level of cushioning from its predecessor, the New Balance 890 v6 continues to offer a performance-driven design for a satisfying experience on the road.

Summary Score: 86/100

Pros:
● Durable outsole
● Lightweight construction
● Impressive traction on both wet and dry surfaces
● Lacing is precise and secure
● Breathable upper

Cons:
● Too firm and less responsive cushioning
● Not much wiggle room in the toe box

New Balance 890 v6 Updates

A few years after the discontinuation of the 890 v5, New Balance resurrected the series with significant updates.

Some of the updates are in the upper: the engineered mesh upper and the bootie construction. The no-sew mesh reduces the likelihood of skin irritation while delivering an adaptive fit. On the other hand, the bootie construction provides a skin-like feel throughout the run.

The New Balance 890 v6 also features a new midsole design which aims to deliver the same level of cushioning, but with a more responsive feel. The new full-length RevLite replaces the old RevLite and ABZORB midsole foam of the preceding iteration, the New Balance 890 v5.

Lastly, this model now has a new outsole design for better traction. The minimal rubber placements give extra durability without adding too much weight.

Upper

Making use of an entirely new look, the upper of the New Balance 890 v6 features an impressive modern design. An engineered mesh provides breathability and a secure fit, while a no-sew structure minimizes irritation. Moreover, its bootie construction provides the foot with a skin-like wrap for a more comfortable in-shoe feel.

The 890 v6 has a reliable shoelace system that is very easy to adjust. The laces are flat and semi-elastic, and they help in providing a secure mid foot fit.

Lastly, the shoe has a lightly padded tongue and heel collar. These units cushion the upper dimensions of the foot while keeping it in place.

Midsole

This running shoe utilizes a full-length RevLite midsole to provide enough cushioning for daily training. It is engineered to absorb shock during impact and deliver high- energy return for a more powerful toe-off. The 27mm thickness in the heel should be enough to give the necessary underfoot protection.

TPU inserts are strategically placed between the outsole and midsole. These orange strips are added for a faster underfoot feel.

Outsole

The New Balance 890 v6 features a blown rubber compound that is individually placed in high wear areas for durability. The light tread patterns in the targeted regions accommodate slip-resistant performance on the roads. The outsole also aims to deliver enough traction on different paved surfaces.

Breathability and Comfort

Everything on the shoe is comfortable. The engineered mesh upper with the bootie construction provides the foot with unmatched comfort and breathability. It impressively keeps the foot well-ventilated and free of moisture. Though mildly cushioned, the tongue and collar are just perfect in giving extra support and an enhanced fit.

Performance

The New Balance 890 v6 brings a very firm ride; the RevLite midsole foam is less responsive. Since the cushioning is too firm, this model is not ideal for long-distance runs. The lack of a soft underfoot feel may cause leg pain during or after long runs.

The shoe lacks the necessary flexibility, as well. The design of the outsole, particularly the rubber material in the midfoot and forefoot, is not flexible at all. New Balance could make the outsole more flexible to make every transition a lot smoother.

Fit

Overall, the New Balance 890 v6 delivers a comfortable fit, from the heel to the forefoot. It is true to size, but there is not much wiggle room in the toe box. Aside from being breathable, the upper material also hugs the foot impressively. The laces also performed well in giving a more precise and secure midfoot wrap.

Durability

This shoe has an impressively durable construction. The engineered mesh is of premium quality, and the laces are not cheap-looking. After running several miles and wearing the shoe several times, the outsole still looked new and undamaged. Just like any other shoes from New Balance, the 890 v6 won’t disappoint when it comes to sturdiness.

New Balance 890 v6 Compared to Other Running Shoes

Hoka One One Bondi 5

The Hoka One One Bondi 5 offers plenty of cushioning for daily use. Just like the 890 v6, this shoe brings a firm ride. The full EVA foam, a signature Hoka One One cushioning, has been incorporated into the Bondi 5 for reliable underfoot support. The moderate Heel Bevel is specially designed for a smoother transition without affecting ground contact. Overall, the Bondi 5 delivers a fair performance on the road.

Brooks Glycerin 15

This running shoe utilizes the Super DNA midsole cushioning that offers 25% more adaptability compared to other conventional midsole foams. It provides soft and featherlike underfoot feel while also making every stride smoother and more responsive. Performance-wise, this shoe is better compared to the New Balance 890 v6. With the 10mm heel-to-toe drop, the Brooks Glycerin 15 is indeed a superior pair for road running.

Saucony Ride 10

The Saucony Ride 10 is a well-cushioned running shoe that’s designed for neutral runners. The EVERUN topsole and Tri-Flex outsole design provide a suitable combination of flexibility and responsiveness. Compared to the 890 v6, the cushioning of the Ride 10 is softer and more efficient for long-distance runs. Both models offer the same level of comfort, traction, and durability.

Conclusion

The New Balance 890 v6 is designed for neutral runners who are looking for a reliable daily training shoe. The midsole is too firm and less responsive, but it’s still capable of delivering the necessary comfort, traction, and durability needed for any run.