Last Updated: May 31st, 2022
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Today we are comparing Brooks Beast Vs New Balance 990. New Balance 990 is an iconic running shoe that has stood the test of time since its first introduction in 1982.
On the other hand, Brooks Beast is a legendary shoe in its own right and has incorporated more modern technologies like the other shoes from Brooks.
This will be an interesting study…let’s compare Brooks Beast Vs New Balance 990.
This is our winner
Last update on 2023-08-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
New Balance 990v5
Why did we choose this?
- This is a legend. Duh.
- Excellent cushioning.
- Dual density collar foam for better ankle stability.
- Good for both long and short distance running.
- Roomy toe-box.
- Lightweight and durable.
The main differences between Brooks Beast Vs New Balance 990
- Brooks Beast is a motion control running shoe, whereas New Balance 990 is more like a neutral running shoe.
- In terms of weight, Brooks Beast weighs around 10.7oz / 303.3g (Women) 11.7oz / 331.7g (Men) whereas New Balance 990 weighs around 14oz / 396.9g (Men) and 11.3oz / 320.35g (Women)
- New Balance 990 has one size more than Brooks Beast for both genders.
- New Balance 990 has at least one more color available than Brooks Beast.
- The latest generation of Brooks Beast is 20, and the current version of New Balance 990 is 5.
Brooks Beast Vs New Balance 990 – An Overview
Brooks Beast and New Balance 990 are excellent running shoes. They will provide you with good cushioning and will minimize the impact of running on your lower body.
Brooks Beast is a motion control running and New Balance 990 is a neutral/stable running shoe. This makes them very different from each other.
However, there are a lot of other differences that we will find out in the following sections…
Related: Brooks Beast Vs Asics Kayano: Which One Should You Choose?
Brooks Beast Vs New Balance 990 – Features at a glance
| Brooks Beast 20 | New Balance 990v5 | |
|---|---|---|
 |
 |
|
| Type | Motion Control | Neutral, Mild Stability |
| Heel-to-toe Drop | 12mm | 12mm |
| Arch Support | Flat To Medium | Medium |
| Technology | GuideRails, BioMoGo DNA | ENCAP, Blown Rubber, Dual Density Collar Foam |
| Sizes | 6.0 – 13.0 (Women) 8.0 – 16.0 (Men) |
5.0 – 13.0 (Women) 7.0 – 16.0 (Men) |
| Width | Normal, Narrow 2A, Wide D, Extra Wide 2E (Women) Normal, Narrow B, Wide 2E, Extra Wide 4E (Men) |
Normal, Wide (Women) Normal, Extra Wide 2E (Men) |
| Use | Long Distance, Treadmill, Road | Long Distance, Treadmill, Road |
| Editor’s Rating |  |
|
New Balance 990 Vs. Brooks Beast – A head to head comparison
In the above sections, we have broadly covered the main differences between Brooks Beast and New Balance 990.
However, these two shoes are so unique that the broad differences will not do justice to them. In the following sections, we will go into much depth to find out what is all hype about.
Outsole
The outsole of both Brooks Beast and New Balance 990 is very different. Although both use blown rubber, the way they are spread across the outsole is very different.
Brooks Beast has pieces of rubber spread across the outsole. This creates deep grooves and adds to the flexibility of these shoes.
For New Balance 990, the story is very different. It has blown rubber spread out almost evenly throughout the sole and provides a uniform structure.
However, both of these shoes have excellent grip on the road and will keep you stable during your run.
Also, being high durability rubber will enhance the lifespan of these running shoes.
Midsole
The midsole of Brooks Beast has DNA LOFT that provides you with a soft and luxurious cushioning feeling underfoot.
However, that will dampen the responsiveness a bit. Durability-wise, this will not cause a problem as DNA LOFT is a very durable material.
On the other hand, New Balance 990 has an ENCAP midsole. It combines lightweight foam with a durable polyurethane rim. This provides you with day-long support and cushioning.
Also, they are excellent in providing cushioning and are very durable.
Upper
The upper of Brooks Beast is completely different than New Balance 990.
Brooks Beast uses mesh for its upper and will provide you with a custom fit and excellent breathability.
New Balance 990 on the other hand uses a combination of leather, suede, and no-stitch mesh. Due to the presence of leather and suede, some amount of customizability is not there.
However, the generous toe-box and the overall spacious shoe provide you with excellent comfort.
Weight
Weightwise Brooks Beast is lighter than New Balance 990. It could be because of the kind of materials used on the upper.
Brooks Beast weighs around 10.7oz / 303.3g for women and for New Balance 990 it is 11.3 oz / 320.35g for women.
For the men’s version, Brooks Beast weighs around 11.7oz / 331.7g and New Balance 990 weighs around 14oz / 396.9g.
Price
In comparison to Brooks Beast, New Balance 990 costs more by $20 or $30. This varies depending on any sale going on at that time.
However, in general, New Balance 990 will be heavier on your pocket.
In the above sections, we have provided you a detailed comparison of Brooks Beast and New Balance 990.
However, you may be interested in researching some alternatives to these running shoes as well. If show below we have provides some alternatives.
Similar Shoes
Running Shoes Similar To Brooks Beast 20
Brooks Beast 20 is a motion control running shoe with maximal cushioning. Finding an alternative to this unparallel shoe is a tough task.
However, we have found some of the running shoes that are viable alternatives to Brooks Beast.
Running Shoes Similar To New Balance 990v5
We are in the process of finding running shoes that are good alternatives to New Balance 990.
However, one that caught out eye is as below.
- MIZUNO WAVE: Wave sets the standard for running shoe technologies.
- The Wave Creation series is all about taking cushioning to the absolute max, in a way that only Mizuno can do
- Mizuno achieves this with the Infinity Wave, complete with a new construction. This is the softest, bounciest Wave Creation to date
Last update on 2023-08-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Conclusion
In the above sections, we have provided you with all the differences and similarities of Brooks Beast Vs New Balance 990.
However, due to the iconic value, daily usability, and ability to cater to a wider audience, we have chosen New Balance 990 over Brooks Beast.
Although, this doesn’t mean that Brooks Beast is not a good shoe. Nothing can be further from the truth.
Let us know your thoughts…
Madhusree Basu
Author, Admin
Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.
