New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 Review
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What's New
New Balance's pinnacle race day shoe, the Supercomp Elite, has been a reliable marathon racing option since its initial release, and now, we see its biggest leap forward to date. While previous versions of the FuelCell foam midsole have been solid in terms of keeping a low weight and having high energy return, the standards for premium foam compounds have risen exponentially, which has left New Balance a bit behind in the super shoe game. With the complete overhaul of the latest version of the SC Elite, it looks like things are about to change.
Leading the way with this update is the all-new midsole setup that now features two-layers of 100% PEBA foam that sandwiches a thinner Energy Arc carbon-plate. Those two elements combine to deliver a highly energetic and efficient ride from start to finish. The outsole features strategically placed rubber to inrease traction as well as stiffness in the forefoot. Finally, the FANTOMFIT single layer mesh upper offers a highly breathable yet very secure fit.
The Bottom Line
In previous years, the New Balance SC (and RC) Elite has been one of our top picks for beginner to intermediate level marathon runners who need a more accommodating fit in their race day shoes. And while there was a lot to like about these past versions, we can't say that they represented the best options for runners chasing PRs and BQs. Well, with the top to bottom redesign of the latest iteration of the FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4, New Balance may have just entered the chat with the likes of perennial podium finishers, Nike and adidas as a top of the line racing option.
New Balance's pinnacle race day shoe, the Supercomp Elite, has been a reliable marathon racing option since its initial release, and now, we see its biggest leap forward to date. While previous versions of the FuelCell foam midsole have been solid in terms of keeping a low weight and having high energy return, the standards for premium foam compounds have risen exponentially, which has left New Balance a bit behind in the super shoe game. With the complete overhaul of the latest version of the SC Elite, it looks like things are about to change.
Leading the way with this update is the all-new midsole setup that now features two-layers of 100% PEBA foam that sandwiches a thinner Energy Arc carbon-plate. Those two elements combine to deliver a highly energetic and efficient ride from start to finish. The outsole features strategically placed rubber to inrease traction as well as stiffness in the forefoot. Finally, the FANTOMFIT single layer mesh upper offers a highly breathable yet very secure fit.
The Bottom Line
In previous years, the New Balance SC (and RC) Elite has been one of our top picks for beginner to intermediate level marathon runners who need a more accommodating fit in their race day shoes. And while there was a lot to like about these past versions, we can't say that they represented the best options for runners chasing PRs and BQs. Well, with the top to bottom redesign of the latest iteration of the FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4, New Balance may have just entered the chat with the likes of perennial podium finishers, Nike and adidas as a top of the line racing option.
Specifications & Fit
Shoe Specs
Weight Men's: 8.2 oz (size 9) | Women's: Coming Soon
Stack Height 40mm (Heel), 36mm (Forefoot) | 4 mm Heel-Toe Offset
Terrain Road
Stability Neutral
Sizing True to Size
Weight Men's: 8.2 oz (size 9) | Women's: Coming Soon
Stack Height 40mm (Heel), 36mm (Forefoot) | 4 mm Heel-Toe Offset
Terrain Road
Stability Neutral
Sizing True to Size