New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 running shoes

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 upper

The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 running shoe upper is made of thin, breathable mesh. The fit of the upper is true to size, but it’s borderline, so it might be better to go up a size or half a size. I found the narrow upper very comfortable as it didn’t pinch or rub my feet, but my feet are narrower than average. Another positive is that the upper is more cushioned than those of other running shoes designed for race. The thin tongue is fixed on both sides and has a small cushion at the top to prevent the shoelaces from pressing against your feet. The tongue of the shoe could be a little longer. It is not uncomfortably short, but it is shorter than average. Another unusual feature of running shoes designed for race is that the SC Elite V5 has minimal heel collar reinforcement. This is not particularly soft, but the amount of cushioning is unusual for such lightweight shoes. The inner sole is not glued into the shoe and can therefore be replaced.

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 midsole

As the name suggests, the midsole of the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 running shoe is made entirely of FuelCell foam. This foam is extremely light and soft, and is New Balance’s most advanced midsole material. A curved carbon plate called the Energy Arc runs through the midsole. This adds further dynamism and speed to the shoe, while also improving the stability of the otherwise very soft midsole. The Energy Arc carbon plate has been redesigned to be more curved for better forward propulsion. The midsole is narrowest at the heel and midfoot, so if you tend to land on your heel, you may find the shoe unstable. I focused on landing only on the front and outer part of my foot to prevent injury to my pronating foot and foot pain after running. This seems to have worked because I have had some very good runs in them so far and have not experienced any stiffness from the carbon plate or instability. It is worth noting that the Energy Arc carbon plate is thinner, which makes the shoe less stiff. During my first interval run, I found the shoes very comfortable, even during the lower-intensity sections. However, it became clear during the faster sections that these shoes are designed for fast running — that’s when they really shine. They are excellent for fast running and the SC Elite V5 rivals its competitors: the Adidas Adios Pro 4, Asics Metaspeed, Nike Alphafly, Saucony Endorphin Elite and Brooks Hyperion Elite.

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 outsole

The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 running shoe outsole is made of two different types of rubber, which is visible and tangible. The front section is divided into three parts by three angular grooves, providing excellent traction. The middle section of the three-part outsole is slightly higher and only touches the ground when pressure is applied to the midsole. At the rear, on both sides of the heel, there is an outsole made of a slightly harder, thicker and more durable-looking material. I am pleased that New Balance did not reduce the thickness of the outer sole at the heel to make it lighter, because these two layers of rubber are thicker than those in racing shoes.

Who are the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 running shoes for and what kind of running are they suitable for?

The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 running shoes are lightweight and dynamic with carbon plates, making them suitable for marathon distances. They are primarily intended for runners who can complete a marathon in under 4 minutes per kilometre. As is typical of all running shoes suitable for competition, stability is not their strong point due to the narrow, soft midsole, so runners who pronate or supinate should take this into account when running in them. I do not recommend them for beginner runners, as they cannot take advantage of the advanced technologies, nor for heavier or overweight runners due to the narrow, soft midsole. While they are suitable for marathon distances, they also perform well for shorter, faster runs.

How has the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 running shoe changed from the previous version, the SC v4?

The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 running shoe has undergone significant changes, which is good news as it now rivals its competitors. However, those who loved the shoe precisely because it was different from other brands may not be happy with the changes. The weight of the shoe has been significantly reduced by 22 grams thanks to the changes.

Upper

• The tongue is now fixed in place.
• The heel collar is slightly more padded and stiffer.

Midsole

• The midsole is now narrower, which reduces stability but makes the shoe lighter.
• The carbon plate has a larger, more aggressive bend, providing more efficient forward propulsion.

Outsole

• The pattern has changed, improving traction.