Running Shoe Reviews
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New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3 Review
Published: March 7, 2023
The SC Elite v3 Harnesses the Full Powers of NB's FuelCell and Energy Arc
Likes
- Highly responsive midsole foam
- Energy Arc plate creates smooth, efficient transitions
- Comfortably snug race-day fit with good breathability
Dislikes
- Upper causes irritation for some
- Not the most explosive super shoe
What's New
Though the New Balance SuperComp (SC) Elite is the first of its name, this premier carbon-plated marathon racing shoe is an evolution of the FuelCell RC Elite, and version 3 promises to improve the racing experience with a level of performance few shoes can contest.
With a 40-mm stack height of New Balance's softest, most responsive foam compound, the SC Elite offers peppy protection perfect for fast efforts over long distances. Like its SuperComp relatives, this racing shoe also features New Balance's Energy Arc carbon-fiber plate technology with split midsole geometry, both of which help create super smooth transitions with incredible efficiency through the gait cycle.
The SuperComp Elite v3's single-layer mesh upper has a bootie-like construction and a snug, sock-like feel that delivers the security runners need for fast paces and the comfort they need to go the full-marathon distance and beyond. Further, the breathable mesh design promises to keep runners locked down right over the midsole, delivering surprising new levels of stability to this highly cushioned shoe.
New Balance finished the SC Elite v3 update with a modified outsole that improves the shoe's traction and durability, ensuring a completely dialed-in experience that competes with the very best marathon racing shoes on the market.
The Bottom Line
The results are in, and our testers have nothing but good things to say about the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3. With New Balance's top tech featured throughout, the SuperComp Elite will help runners optimize their marathon performances, which is exactly what the brand built this shoe to do.
The SuperComp Elite's magic derives from its FuelCell foam and Energy Arc plate, which our testers commended for its impact protection, smooth heel-to-toe roll, and trampoline-like bounce. That said, the SC Elite's speed is slightly more subtle compared to firmer, snappier marathon racers (we're looking at you, METASPEED). Our team found the SC Elite's plate a bit subdued under the large stack of soft, protective FuelCell foam, but runners may be surprised to find how fast they're moving when it's time to check their split. This seemingly discreet speed is the SC Elite's true superpower and an attribute that will be appreciated by elite runners and beginners alike.
The SuperComp Elite v3's upper, on the other hand, has drawn some more mixed reviews. The one-piece knit upper provides a race-ready fit that hugs the foot like a sock and delivers an excellent lockdown. Our testers had split opinions, as one noted slight ankle irritation and rubbing caused by the heel collar, while the other praised the upper as one of their favorites, so it may be worth a try-on to see if the fit is right for you. Thankfully, our free returns and 90-day guarantee will help you add these babies to your cart with confidence. Regardless, the FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3 is an incredible shoe with top-tier performance that runners of all levels can appreciate. The SuperComp Elite v3 will definitely give other super shoes a run for their money on race day.
Specifications & Fit
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 7.6 oz (size 9) | Women's: 6.6 oz (size 8) |
| Stack Height | 40 (Heel), 26 mm (Forefoot) | 4 mm Heel-Toe Offset |
| Terrain | Road racing |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | True to size |
Our In-Depth Look
Upper
Kaleb: "I know the SuperComp Trainer received some criticism for its upper, and it appears that the SC Elite has produced similar results. I cannot speak for other runners, but I love this upper. I never had any issues with irritation or hot spots, and it fits my foot like a glove.
The one-piece knit upper is well-balanced with a breathable, lightweight feel that is plush enough to keep you comfortable for marathon distances."
Grace: "This shoe runs true to size, and my typical size 8.5 was perfect for me. The upper is breathable and offers a solid hold around my foot.
My only concern with the upper was the ankle collar. Immediately when I put on the shoe, I felt a rubbing on my right ankle. After 2 to 3 miles into my runs, the rubbing would eventually dissipate. I tried to locate the source of the issue and thought it could have been due to the SuperComp Elite's seemingly high collar, but other than that, I am not sure. Anyways, the irritation consistently occurred in the first few miles of my testing runs, and fortunately, it would disappear each time, but I thought it was worth noting."
Midsole
Kaleb: "This shoe feels amazing underfoot. When I put it on, I am immediately welcomed with an amazingly soft feel that seems like it is going to bounce me into the air like a mini trampoline. Without any hesitation, I will say this is one of the best shoes I have ever run in.
The balance of the midsole is nothing short of incredible, and New Balance has delivered a plush, protective feel that is also highly responsive. I honestly do not think I would have any trouble using the SC Elite for any run, regardless of pace or distance. They are protective enough to carry me comfortably for miles and fast enough to hit shorter-distanced PBs (1500m to 10K).
The efficiency is also worthy of praise, as the Energy Arc carbon-fiber plate helps create a super smooth heel-to-toe transition with a nice pop at the toe-off. Though, if I had to nitpick, the plate is not as aggressively fast as some other super shoes. Again, this has been an awesome midsole to run on, and there are very few shoes (if any) that I have enjoyed testing more."
Grace: "This FuelCell midsole foam is awesome. While super light, the foam is lively and energetic, and I love the bounce I get from it on the run. The split midsole design with Energy Arc carbon-fiber plate is designed to bend and deliver a snappy energy return at toe-off, and the Energy Arc feels like a stable trampoline every time I land. Overall, I think the SuperComp Elite performs very well at a wide variety of paces and distances."
Outsole
Kaleb: "In general, outsoles are pretty straightforward for me. Either they are durable with good traction, or they are not. In terms of the SC Elite, the outsole is both durable and grippy. The SC Elite's outsole is effective at providing consistent traction, and the rubber has shown no signs of breakdown after 50+ miles. That said, I do believe there are more grippy outsole compounds out there and wonder how the SC Elite would do in more adverse weather conditions, but ultimately, I am very satisfied with how it performed."
Grace: "The outsole is minimal and provides just enough traction to grip road surfaces and to offer sufficient protection from wear. I tried to take these on a dirt fire road as I progressed through a long run, and I instantly got rocks jammed into the split midsole cutout, so learn from me and keep these strictly on road surfaces as intended!"
Comparable Shoes
Kaleb: "There are very few shoes worthy of being compared to the SC Elite, and admittedly, I do not feel like there are very many shoes that actually can. As New Balance's premier marathon racing shoe, the SuperComp Elite automatically lends itself to comparisons to the Saucony Endorphin Elite, adidas Adios Pro, not to mention the Nike Alphafly or Vaporfly.
All of these shoes have amazing reputations and are favorites for marathon races, depending on a runner's preferences, but the SuperComp Elite is my favorite. Though, I should admit that I have not worn or tested all the various super shoes.
Unlike other elite racing shoes, I feel like I can run forever in the SuperComp Elite. The shoe's soft, bouncy midsole disguises the aggressiveness of the carbon plate without feeling like it is dampening the speed or efficiency of the Energy Arc plate. The Saucony Endorphin Pro offers slightly more comfort and space in the upper, and I think it will better accommodate a wider variety of foot shapes. Though for me and my running needs, the SC Elite outpaces the competition in almost every category."
Grace: "I would compare the NB FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3 to the Saucony Endorphin Pro. Both shoes are versatile in their ability to accommodate different speeds and distances, and both shoes offer a more forgiving overall ride, especially when compared to other premier marathon racing shoes.
The FuelCell SuperComp Elite feels lighter and more snappy through the toe-off, whereas the Endorphin Pro has a more muted response. I think for faster workouts, I would grab the New Balance SuperComp Elite v3, and for longer distances, I would pick up the Endorphin Speed."
New Balance Men's FuelCell SuperComp Elite
The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite combines top-level technology to create a highly cushioned, carbon fiber-plated running shoe designed for peak performance.
New Balance Women's FuelCell SuperComp Elite
The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite combines top-level technology to create a highly cushioned, carbon fiber-plated running shoe designed for peak performance.
Individual Thoughts
KalebOverall Score: 10/10
When I put on the New Balance SuperComp Elite v3, the first word out of my mouth was, "Woah." The soft bounciness of the midsole immediately gets your attention, providing a balance of plush comfort and energetic return. While running, the experience only got better, and every time I reached for the SC Elite, I was excited for the run ahead.
The Energy Arc plate also helped create a smooth and efficient ride while delivering a little snap at toe-off. Admittedly, other super shoes provide a more aggressive overall feel at toe-off. If you like a firmer underfoot experience with a highly aggressive carbon plate, then the SuperComp Elite v3 probably is not your best option. This is not to say the shoe is not fast, because it most certainly is, but the SuperComp Elite v3 delivers a more forgiving experience than other marathon racers I have tried.
Some runners have expressed issues with the SC Elite's upper, noting irritation caused by the heel collar. For me, the shoe fits extremely well. I had no issues from the get-go and have been irritation-free throughout testing. I said it earlier, but I felt like I could run forever in these shoes, which is not something I have said about very many shoes, especially carbon-plated super shoes. So if you are 5'7" (and a HALF!), a midfoot/forefoot striker, and run 20 to 25 miles a week, then the SC Elite is my recommendation.
GraceOverall Score: 8/10
The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3 has one of the smoothest rides compared to the other carbon-plated running shoes I have tested. The FuelCell foam is springy and has excellent impact dampening to protect my legs. Pair that New Balance's Energy Arc carbon-fiber plate, and you have one speedy shoe.
I preferred using this shoe for shorter speed workouts, but I think it has all the attributes of an elite marathon shoe. Besides the slight irritation caused by the ankle collar, I thought the upper was fantastic, offering impressive breathability with a delightfully snug, race-inspired fit. The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3 is best for runners looking for a highly cushioned shoe that can easily pick up the pace whenever you are feeling speedy.
