I’ve had a few pairs of New Balance 990-series shoes over the years; my most recent was a pair of 992s, which are showing their age. I wanted to buy more, but the reviews a few years ago talked about their developing a “cat pee” odor if they got wet; I switched to other shoes.
I needed shoes again this month; the current New Balance model is the 990v5, and the reviews I saw online didn’t mention the odor, so I ordered a pair, which arrived today. We went out for a quick walk and were surprised by a sudden shower halfway through – we were fairly wet by the time we got home.
I am pleased to report that New Balance has solved their odor problem. The shoes felt comfortable, too; I am, so far, a happy customer.