Best Alternatives to the 990 New Balance Kids’ Shoe – Top 3 Alternatives!
As a specialist at a children’s shoe store, I often get asked if the New Balance 990 is the best shoe for kids—especially those with flat feet, in-toeing, or toe walking. Known for its unmatched support, cushioning, and wide sizing options, the 990 is a favorite for comfort and fit. But its high price and quick sell-outs can be a challenge. That’s why I’m sharing the top 3 affordable alternatives that offer similar support and features.
What Makes the 990 the Best Choice for Children with Foot Issues?
When we’re talking about shoes for children with foot issues such as flat feet, in-toeing, overpronation, or “complicated” foot shapes such as wide or extra wide feet, the 990 shoe rises to the top with three key features: support, fit, and durability.
What sets the New Balance 990 series apart is its cutting-edge technology designed to truly support growing feet. With firm heel counters and ENCAP midsoles, these shoes deliver durable cushioning and exceptional stability. Plus, their extra depth and availability in wide and extra wide widths make them perfect for “complicated” foot shapes and those needing orthotics—combining comfort and support as few others can.
Best Alternatives to the 990 – Top 3 Alternatives
Unfortunately, there are not many shoe brands that manufacture shoes with the support, fit, and quality of materials that the 990 by New Balance provides. However, over the years I have found certain models that provide similar features as the 990. Before I show you specific shoe recommendations, I want to remind you that every child’s foot is different, and what works really well for some children might not work as well for others.
First Alternative. The Saucony Cohesion is my top pick when looking for a great alternative to the 990. Available in both girls’ and boys’ colors, it offers a supportive outsole and firm heel counters that deliver solid stability and comfort. While it doesn’t have quite the extra depth or come in extra wide widths like the 990, it’s still a fantastic option for kids needing reliable support without breaking the bank.
Second Alternative. The New Balance 2002, available in both girls’ and boys’ colors, is a fantastic contender that rivals the 990 in support, fit, and durability. With extra depth to comfortably fit orthotics, it’s perfect for kids needing that added room. The only drawback? It’s not offered in extra wide widths. If you’re exploring options within New Balance, the classic 574 is another solid choice that shares many of the 990’s great features.
Third Alternative. The Chicago shoe by Memo, a trusted orthopedic shoe brand, is specifically designed to support children with foot conditions like flat feet, in-toeing, and toe walking. This shoe stands out for its medical-grade features, including a thermoplastic asymmetric stiff heel counter that offers excellent foot protection and stability, along with a Thomas heel designed to help prevent and correct flat feet. It’s a smart choice for parents looking for a therapeutic and supportive shoe backed by orthopedic design.
All of the alternatives I recommended feature sturdy midsoles for optimal shock absorption, reinforced toe caps for added protection, and durable materials built to handle the wear and tear of daily play. The more durable the shoe, the better it will maintain its structure—ensuring your child’s feet stay properly supported over time.
Contact Me for Specific Shoe Recommendations
Children’s shoe needs can differ greatly depending on their age, activity level, and specific foot conditions. If you’re unsure which alternative to the New Balance 990 series is best for your child, feel free to reach out via email or leave a comment below—I’m here to help you find the perfect fit!
As I mentioned before, the issue with the 990 is that the price is on the high end (many families cannot afford this shoe), and the sizes sell out pretty quickly, especially the wide and extra wide widths. Not every shoe is perfect for every foot. Your goal should be to find shoes that provide the correct amount of support with proper fit to encourage healthy foot development.
