What Is New Balance ENCAP? How It Supports Flat Feet and Overpronation

Quick answer: ENCAP is New Balance's midsole design that wraps a soft EVA foam core inside a firmer polyurethane (PU) rim. The soft center cushions each step, and the firm rim keeps the foam from squashing out to the sides. That helps stop your arch from caving inward (called overpronation or "medial collapse"). You'll find ENCAP in classics like the New Balance 990 and 574.

Lots of new shoes chase bounce with super-soft foam. Soft foam feels great, but it can feel wobbly side to side. ENCAP takes a different approach. Think of it like a soft pillow inside a sturdy frame: plush under your foot, with a firm edge that keeps you steady.

Every time your foot lands, your arch flattens a little. That's normal. But in a shoe made only of soft foam, the foam can squash too far, and your foot can roll inward. Over a long day, that can leave your feet, knees, and back feeling tired.

ENCAP fixes this with a simple idea. The firm PU rim works like a belt around the heel and midfoot. The soft EVA core still compresses to soak up impact, but the rim stops it from bulging out. Your foot stays level and centered from heel strike to toe-off.

• The short version: ENCAP is a soft foam center held in a firm frame. It keeps your arch from collapsing while still feeling comfortable for walking and all-day wear.

The right cushioning depends on what you want: instant bounce or steady, long-lasting support. Here's how our JD specialists answer the most common questions.

• JD Expert Question: How does ENCAP hold up over time compared with super-soft foams like New Balance FuelCell?

• JD Expert Answer: Super-soft foams are great for fast runs, but they can lose some of their spring as they wear in. The firm PU rim in ENCAP holds its shape for a long time, so the support you feel on day one stays with you. If you walk a lot or stand at work, that steady feel is the big win.

• JD Expert Question: Does the higher heel drop on 990-series shoes help on long shifts?

• JD Expert Answer: Yes, for many people. A higher heel drop lifts your heel a bit above your toes, which can take some stretch off your calves and Achilles. People who stand on hard floors all day often find that more comfortable. If you've had Achilles issues, talk to a foot specialist about what's right for you.

Choosing between ENCAP support and a max-cushion shoe comes down to one question: do you need stability, or pure softness?

• New Balance 990v6: Pairs ENCAP with softer FuelCell foam. It feels planted, wide, and stable on city streets. Shop the New Balance 990.
• New Balance 574: A more affordable everyday classic that also uses ENCAP for a steady, durable feel. See the New Balance 574.
• Max-cushion shoes: Feel very soft at first, but often give less side-to-side support. They can suit neutral runners who don't roll inward.

• Flat feet: Many people with low arches like ENCAP because the firm rim helps keep the arch from collapsing. Pair it with a supportive insole if you need more.
• Mild overpronation: ENCAP's steady base can help if your feet roll in a little when you walk.
• Running with strong overpronation: Look at a dedicated stability running shoe. ENCAP shoes like the 990 and 574 are best for walking and everyday wear.
• Pain or injury: If you have ongoing foot pain, see a podiatrist before picking a shoe.

• True to size: Most ENCAP shoes, including the 990 and 574, fit true to size for most people.
• Wide feet: New Balance makes many ENCAP models in wide (2E) and extra wide (4E) widths. Availability varies by color and size.
• Vs. Nike and adidas: New Balance often feels roomier in the toe box than many Nike and adidas lifestyle shoes.

• What does ENCAP mean on New Balance shoes? It's a midsole with a soft EVA foam core wrapped in a firmer polyurethane rim for cushioning plus support.
• Which New Balance shoes have ENCAP? Classic models like the 990 and 574 use ENCAP. Check the product details for each shoe.
• Is ENCAP good for standing all day? Yes. Its firm rim keeps support steady over long shifts, which is why many workers like the 990.
• ENCAP vs. Fresh Foam: what's the difference? ENCAP focuses on support and structure. Fresh Foam focuses on soft, smooth cushioning.

• Buy an ENCAP New Balance if: You're on your feet for hours, have flat arches or roll inward a little, and want a durable shoe that keeps you steady.
• Skip it if: You want the lightest, bounciest running shoe possible and don't need extra support.
• Ready to shop? Browse New Balance at JD Sports.

1. New Balance Product Information: Details on the ENCAP midsole and the EVA and polyurethane materials it uses.
2. Brand History: The New Balance 990 launched in 1982 as a premium, supportive running shoe.
3. New Balance Product Information: Details on the 990v6, including its FuelCell and ENCAP midsole.
4. JD Sports Fit Feedback: Sizing and comfort feedback from JD Sports store teams across North America.