Getting the New Balance 990v7 Made in USA Core Grey shipped to Italy before local stock arrives
The v7 evolution and the 2026 sneaker landscape
The New Balance 990 series has always been the gold standard for comfort and aesthetic longevity. With the official US debut of the 990v7 'Made in USA' in Core Grey on May 10, 2026, the brand has once again shifted the bar for premium running shoes. This iteration introduces a more streamlined FuelCell midsole integrated with classic ENCAP technology, offering a ride that is noticeably softer than the v6 while maintaining that rigid stability collectors crave.
While global demand is high, the 'Made in USA' tag remains a specific point of pride. Collectors in Italy often face limited stock at local boutiques, or worse, months of delay compared to the American release. Because the Core Grey colorway is the flagship of the series, it tends to vanish from digital shelves within minutes. Keeping an eye on us trends can help you spot which retailers still have your size in stock before they hit the resale market at double the price.
Sourcing your pair from US retail giants
Buying directly from US stores like New Balance US, Kith, or Bodega is often the only way to secure a pair at the original retail price. Many of these stores do not offer direct shipping to Italy, or if they do, the costs are astronomical and the transit times are sluggish. By using a tax-free us address, you can shop like a local, avoiding the state sales tax that usually applies to US domestic purchases. This approach is the fastest way to get the shoes into your hands without waiting for a European distribution cycle that might not happen for several weeks.
Shipping estimates and logistics for your 990v7
When you are planning your purchase, it is helpful to know exactly what you are dealing with in terms of physical weight and box size. Footwear is generally straightforward, but the premium packaging of the 'Made in USA' line can be slightly bulkier than standard releases. You might also like to use a shipping calculator to get a precise quote for delivery to your specific city in Italy.
| Metric | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Box Weight | Approx. 1.2 kg (2.6 lbs) including the outer shipping carton. |
| Box Dimensions | Typically 35cm x 24cm x 13cm (Medium Shoe Box). |
| Volumetric Warning | Low. Sneakers are dense enough that they are usually charged by actual weight rather than volume, provided the shipping box is not excessively large. |
| Battery Check | No lithium batteries. No special handling required for electronics. |
Using a freight forwarder to bridge the gap
Efficiency is the goal when a hot drop like the 990v7 happens. A reliable freight forwarder acts as your logistics hub in the US. Once your Core Grey pair arrives at your US suite, you can choose your preferred carrier for the final leg to Italy. This international shipping service allows you to consolidate multiple purchases into one package, which is a great way to save on the base shipping rate if you are also picking up some matching apparel or other 2026 releases.
Handling Italy customs and VAT for footwear
When the shoes arrive in Italy, they will be subject to the standard import process. Since the 990v7 is a high-value item, you should expect to pay VAT (IVA) and potentially minor customs duties. The current regulations in 2026 require clear documentation of the purchase price to ensure a smooth transition through the Italian customs office. Check our guide on import duties to understand how these fees are calculated for luxury footwear so there are no surprises when the courier reaches your door in Milan, Rome, or Florence.
Checking shipping rules and restricted goods
While sneakers are almost always safe to ship, it is a good habit to verify that no other items in your cart are on the list of prohibited items. For example, if you are buying sneaker cleaning kits that contain pressurized aerosols or certain flammable liquids along with your 990v7s, those might be subject to different shipping rules. Sticking to the shoes themselves ensures a fast, problem-free transit from the US warehouse to your home in Italy.
By following this path, you bypass the frustration of local stockouts and secure one of the most anticipated releases of 2026. The 990v7 Core Grey is more than just a trend; it is a piece of footwear history that is best enjoyed the moment it drops.
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