The New Balance 996 is a bridge between past and future, merging heritage style modeled after the '88 original and updated technology. Debuted in September 2019, this edition sports a grey leather upper complemented by tonal counter underlays, metallic 'N' patches and a heel stabilizer. Other branding lands on the tongue and rear tab. The sneaker includes a striped Encap-assisted midsole and grooved rubber outsole.