| New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 |
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| £260 |
| BUY NOW FROM NEW BALANCE |
PLEASE NOTE: I paid for the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite V4 trainers myself and was not gifted these trainers or paid by New Balance to give a honest review. This page contains affiliate links. Making a purchase via our affiliate link means I may receive a small share of the sale.
The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 is the latest iteration of New Balance's flagship long-distance racing shoe, featuring significant updates that aim to improve performance and comfort.
The updates include enhanced cushioning technology and improved traction for a more efficient and comfortable running experience.
Here's a comprehensive review of these trainers:
THE HEEL
The heel design is sleek without a pull tab, contributing to the overall lightweight and presumably breathable nature of the upper.
Importantly, version 4 has improved heel lockdown compared to its predecessor, addressing previous comfort issues previous users of version 3 had noted.
THE UPPERS
The toe box is notably roomy, feeling larger than the average width for running shoes.
The upper's design includes a relatively thin tongue, which is less padded than average but it did not feel uncomfortable.
The tongue is shorter than most but unlike other reviewers I got on with it fine.
Another key feature to note is the availability of wide options for both men and women, which is uncommon in the super shoe category.
THE OUTSOLE
The outsole has been improved for better durability and traction. It features more rubber coverage and a flatter design for even wear distribution.
I did like the fact that unlike most super shoes there are no places for small stones to get stuck.
So far they are showing promising results, with the exposed foam holding up well but I have done around 50 miles at the moment.
THE MIDSOLE
The most notable update to the SuperComp Elite v4 is its new 100% PEBA-based FuelCell midsole.
It is a highly cushioned and soft, providing excellent comfort for long-distance running. While the new foam is slightly firmer and more energy-returning than previous versions, it still maintains a plush feel underfoot.
The shoe features a 4mm drop with stack heights of 40mm in the heel and 36mm in the forefoot. This relatively low drop, combined with the soft midsole, creates a smooth transition and stable ride.
It does not have the aggressive, snappy feel of other super shoes, making it more suitable for marathon paces and steady runs.
HOW MUCH DO THEY WEIGH?
My size 9 shoes weigh 241g.
IS IT A FULL CARBON PLATE?
Yes, the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 trainers do have a carbon plate.
Overall, its implementation appears to prioritise comfort and versatility over the extreme stiffness found in some other carbon-plated racing shoes.
HOW LONG DO THEY LAST?
The improvements in the outsole and midsole mean they should last longer than your typical racing shoes.
For a super shoe, you might expect 200-300 miles of use, but the enhanced durability of this model could potentially extend that range, especially if used primarily on the roads.
HOW MUCH DO THEY COST?
The New Balance FuellCell SuperComp Elite V4 shoes retail at £260.
CONCLUSION
The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 is a highly cushioned, comfortable super shoe that excels in long-distance running and marathon races.
It offers a soft, bouncy ride that's less aggressive than some competitors, making it accessible to a wider range of runners. While it may not be the fastest option for short races like the 5K, it shines in providing comfort and support for extended efforts.
This shoe is particularly well-suited for runners who prioritise comfort over pure speed, those new to super shoes, or athletes focusing on half to full marathons.
However, speed demons and those looking for a highly responsive, aggressive racing shoe might find it a bit too soft and heavy for their liking.
Overall, the SuperComp Elite v4 represents a significant step forward for New Balance in the super shoe category, offering a unique blend of comfort and performance that will appeal to many long-distance runners.
WOULD I RECOMMEND THEM?
Yes, especially if your wanting something specifically that gives you lots of cushioning. They reminded me of a lighter version of the Adidas Adizero Prime X 2 Strung.
WHERE TO BUY
You can buy New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 shoes direct from the New Balance website.
| New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 |
|
|
| £260 |
| BUY NOW FROM NEW BALANCE |
If you have any questions you would like to ask about the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4, please ask below in the comments.
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