New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 Review
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If you’re looking for a high-performance race day shoe that delivers speed and comfort, the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 might be the perfect option. In this review, I’ll share my experience running in these lightweight, carbon-plated shoes, highlighting their standout features, fit, and performance. Let’s dive in!
First Impressions
When I first pulled the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 out of the box, I was struck by its lightweight feel. At just 8.4 oz (237 grams), I wasn’t expecting a shoe with a 40mm stack height to feel so light in my hands. The minimalistic design with thin laces, a simple tongue, and a light-weight upper make this shoe look like it’s built for speed. The Cyber Jade colorway, a teal-like shade, pops nicely against the white and black accents, giving the shoe a sleek, modern look.
The FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 is designed specifically for race day. The lightweight feel combined with the high-tech FuelCell midsole and carbon fiber plate promises serious performance when every second counts.
Features and Technology
The SuperComp Elite v4 has advanced features, starting with the FuelCell midsole made from PEBA. This high-performance foam is paired with a redesigned thinner carbon fiber plate and New Balance’s Energy Arc technology. The Energy Arc design combines sport-specific carbon fiber plate geometry with strategic midsole voids to maximize energy return.
Additionally, the shoe has a rocker profile that promotes a smooth heel-to-toe transition, and a solid rubber outsole offers impressive traction and durability. The FantomFit upper provides lightweight support, while the adjustable lace closure ensures a custom fit. With a 4mm drop, the shoe is made to optimize performance during races, especially for longer distances.
Running Experience
My first run in these shoes was an 8-mile tempo loop that I’ve done many times. I wasn’t aiming for a personal record, but I did want to test out the carbon fiber plate and see how it felt. Right away, I noticed the spring-like motion the plate provides, giving me a smooth and propulsive feel. The shoe felt responsive and fast, allowing me to keep a good pace without much effort. I wasn’t pushing for a PR, but I still ran the loop faster than usual.
I tried varying my pace during the run to see how the shoes responded. At slower speeds, the carbon plate’s benefits were less noticeable, but once I picked up the pace, the shoes came to life. They seem best suited for faster efforts, where they can provide that extra edge.
Fit and Comfort
The PhantomFit upper felt comfortable and secure, especially given that I have wider feet. I appreciate that this shoe comes in both standard (D) and wide (2E) options. The fit was true to size, and I didn’t experience any discomfort around my ankles or heels. The heel collar may be minimal, but it didn’t cause any issues, and I was able to get a good lockdown with the traditional lacing system.
The only thing I didn’t love about the design was the tongue. It felt flimsy and didn’t match the high-tech design of the rest of the shoe. It wasn’t gusseted, and the material felt out of place compared to the shoe’s overall advanced construction.
Midsole and Cushioning
One of the standout features of the FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 is the midsole. The new all-PEBA FuelCell foam offers a noticeable bounce and a firm yet responsive ride. Paired with the carbon fiber plate, the midsole provides an excellent combination of cushioning and energy return. During my runs, I appreciated the protection the shoe offered—especially since I was dealing with a bone bruise from a recent trail marathon. Despite the significant cushioning, the shoe didn’t feel too soft, which helped keep my legs fresh.
The Energy Arc system in the carbon plate adds to the shoe’s performance by helping propel each stride forward, making it perfect for faster efforts and long-distance races. The transition from heel to toe felt seamless, and the shoe kept me moving quickly through each stride. This shoe would be perfect for half and full marathon distances.
Outsole and Durability
The rubber outsole is well-designed, providing solid grip and traction, even on wet roads. After logging around 70 miles in these shoes, they’ve held up well with minimal wear and tear. While I’m hopeful that these shoes will last through several races and training cycles, only time will tell if they hold up to longer-term use.
Final Thoughts
The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 delivers on its promise of being a high-performance race day shoe. With its lightweight build, responsive midsole, and propulsive carbon plate, it’s a great option for runners looking to shave seconds off their race times. The fit is comfortable, especially for wider feet, and the Energy Arc technology adds noticeable spring to every step.
At $249.99, these shoes are an investment, but for serious racers, the performance benefits could justify the cost. If you’re interested in learning more or making a purchase, check out the official New Balance website here or amazon.com.
