New Balance 991 Sizing: How Do They Fit?

Last Updated: 9/2/23

Originally titled the M991, the hugely-popular New Balance 991 silhouette has been a mainstay in the Boston-based brand’s offering since its introduction in 2001. The sneaker was debuted as part of the 99X series, however it differed itself from the rest of the capsule via the inclusion of some never-before-seen technologies. First and foremostly, the 991 included ABZORB cushioning in its midsole, a feature that would go on to become one of the most renowned in New Balance’s arsenal.

As well as comfortable, the kicks were also marketed as more durable than ever before, thanks to the inclusion of Ndurance rubber across the outsoles. Offering a very early 2000s look, somewhere between retro and streamlined, the 991 continues to prove popular with sneakerheads even today. So just how does the model fit and what size should you buy? Read on for more right here at The Sole Supplier.

The 991 is an elevated offering amongst New Balance’s extensive catalogue, and is often made in the USA or UK as part of the label’s premium lines. Crafted from a number of materials including nubuck, suede and leather, the kicks generally fit true to size. We recommend purchasing your regular size if you’re shopping for 991s if you’re searching for a comfy fit. However, if you have particularly wide feet, it’s worth going just half a size up to accommodate this. Several of New Balance’s silhouettes are available in specific wide-footed variations, however this option isn’t currently available for the 991.

It’s also commonly-reported that the shape of 991s has changed over the years, so it’s worth noting that if you’re buying old or deadstock pairs, this advice could differ from the reality of the situation. We’d always advise trying on the sneaker in question, if this is possible.

As we previously mentioned, the 991 always contains ABZORB cushioning within the midsole, which is a tried-and-tested technology known for offering optimal comfort. Similar to EVA foam, the cushioning is lightweight and reactive, allowing for the kicks to be worn for hours on end without any issues.

In terms of height gain, while the NB991 looks like it has a chunkier heel than your usual sneaker, it won’t actually provide any serious differences, although you may visually appear slightly taller. The main benefit of this raised heel is extra cushioning, meaning you won’t be feeling the road beneath your feet after a day of serious wear.

New Balance in general are very versatile sneakers. The fact that the silhouettes remain very low-key but still interesting makes them ideal for working into outfits without them overpowering the rest of the look, and the 991 is a perfect example of this. There’s plenty of different colourways on offer at any one time too, so if you have a specific taste or desire, there’s usually an option to suit that.

One thing to acknowledge is the fact that the 991 can appear slightly chunkier than more contemporary silhouettes, so it often looks better with looser trouser options. For example, the sneaker is guaranteed to look great with a pair of baggy cargo pants, however spray-on skinny jeans might not be so easy on the eye.

Another advantage of the 991 is the ability to dress it up or down. Want to rock it with sweatpants on the way to the gym? No problem. Looking to dress these up for your finest fashion week fit? They’ve got you covered. The sheer versatility of this silhouette is not something to be sniffed at, and it’s hard to think of a pair that will garner as much wear time as a solid pair of New Balance.

The thing is with the New Balance 991 is that it’s not a particularly conspicuous shoe. Rather than acting as a flamboyant centrepiece to an outfit, it’s better-known for quietly completing the look, sealing the deal, or adding that finishing touch, per-se. However, there are a few examples of the sneaker doing this with ease. One of the most notable instances is that time Frank Ocean rocked a cappuccino-brown pair of 991s to round off his inexplicably-normcore outfit back in 2018. Paired with brown smart-casual chinos, an unbranded blue sweater and a fisherman beanie, the Blonde star really showed us how things are done.

It’s also worth noting the time that Bukayo Saka starred in an Aimé Leon Dore x New Balance lookbook wearing a pair of Made in UK 991s, proving that the two brands were a creative force to be reckoned with, both headed up by the notoriously-good designer Teddy Santis. Rocking several retro sportswear-inspired outfits, the Premier League star once again proved that the 991 is more than capable of nailing pretty much any look in the book.

The New Balance 991 has played host to some great colourways and collaborations over the years, so it’s hard to narrow down a comprehensive list of the best, but there’s definitely some pairs that stand out amongst the rest. If we’re talking collaborations, it’s difficult to ignore the impact behind the launch of the Aimé Leon Dore x New Balance 991 pack, as well as the high-heat JJJJound x New Balance 991. Let’s not forget that the likes of Dover Street Market, Stray Rats and SNS have all also used the model as the blank canvas for their creations.

In terms of GR colourways, there’s been plenty of solid efforts courtesy of the UK’s very own Flimby factory, which makes it hard to pick favourites, however we can’t deny the penchant that we have for the OG “Grey” colourway - you can never go wrong with a classic. Overall, the New Balance 991 is a sneaker that will never go out of style, making it a valuable addition to the wardrobe of any fashion-conscious person.

If you liked this article, be sure to check out some of our other sizing guides below: