I have bought 2 Pairs of the MW955 about a year or so apart, so am guessing MW956 is an update of that. I loved them. I usually don't spend this amount on my shoes, but for the comfort they bring me, it was worth it. I forgot, that the shoes run small and ordered a size 12 of MW956. I usually wear a size 12, but for this I had to order a size 13. Amazon's chart and measurement of my feet, coincide with the 12. Looking at the the shoe itself, resembles the older model with some changes in style, nothing too significant, but can understand from the owners point of view and manufacturing. Perhaps these, new ones will be less likely to get permanent dirt / stains, and last longer (my oldest shoe has some spotty stain, but they are older, newer one doesn't). I ordered a new shoe to switch off, once in a while and allow them to air out, plus perhaps last longer. The shortest living part of these shoes are the laces. I wish I could find some new laces for the older shoes. New Balance, didn't have them on their website.