The WTAPS x New Balance 990v6 Is Resplendent In Its Restraint

WTAPS and New Balance have officially presented their third sneaker collaboration: a subtle grey-and-white take on the 990v6 that’s resplendent in its restraint. When the two brands first joined forces smack-dab in the middle of New Balance’s red-hot 2020 — one of the most impressive years by any footwear brand in recent memory — their partnership caught the sneaker world off guard, and the 992 they produced was one of the year’s very best shoes. Its follow-up, 2021’s 990v2, was much more subtle, and WTAPS is following that “less is more” ethos once again on the 990 family’s latest model.

Upon a side-angle glimpse, the WTAPS 990v6 looks much like an in-line pair, blending multiple shades of grey across its suede, nubuck and mesh upper. The only hint it isn’t is served by the “USA” graphic towards the rear of the lateral side, and the shoe’s minimal hits of WTAPS branding, which replace the US flag on the heel and can also be seen on the insoles. Final touches include tonal NB tongue branding and a tri-color ENCAP midsole with FuelCell cushioning technology. WTAPS is only the second collaborator to re-work the 990v6 after Action Bronson’s “Baklava” and “Lapis Lazuli” colorways, as most of the shoe’s special releases have come from the Teddy Santis-curated MADE in USA line.

Expect the WTAPS x New Balance 990v6 to release in Japan on Friday, August 25, priced at a tax-included ¥44,000 JPY (roughly $301 USD). Info on a global drop has yet to be announced.

For more from the world of New Balance, check out the Numeric division’s recent skate-ified upgrade to the classic 480.