New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trail Review
Published: September 5, 2023
Specifications & Fit
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 8.8 oz (size 9) | Women's: 8.0 oz (size 8) |
| Stack Height | 36.5 mm (Heel), 26.5 mm (Forefoot) | 10 mm Heel-Toe Offset |
| Terrain | Trail |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | True to size |
Individual Thoughts
ErikOverall Score: 8.5/10
I was very pleased with the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trail on all my testing runs. It feels, fits, and rides like a trail racing shoe, providing a highly secure fit with an excellent outsole grip. The ride was also a highlight; it felt good at cruising speeds but truly excelled when it was time to pick up the pace.
I like to do long, multi-hour runs, and the SuperComp Trail had no problem handling my longest efforts, providing a consistent ride and reliable comfort. Furthermore, the outsole performed very well, as it adapted to the various surfaces that I typically encounter on these adventures without issue.
Honestly, I could not find much to critique with this shoe, but the most significant issue other runners may encounter is with the fit of the upper. I have narrow feet, and the SuperComp Trail still felt a little snug in the forefoot and toebox. This was not a problem for me, and I did not experience any notable discomfort, but runners who have wider feet or who like additional room for toe splay in their ultra-training, ultra-racing shoe may want to look elsewhere for a more accommodating fit. However, if you like a tight, race-like fit, then you will be very happy with the SuperComp Trail in your rotation.
Our In-Depth Look
Upper
Erik: "I love the fit of the SuperComp Trail. I have narrow feet and typically like a close-fitting shoe, even when running 100 miles. The SuperComp Trail provides the closeness, comfort, and security I need in a trail shoe. For me, the generously spacious fit of the Nike Ultrafly Trail was a limiting factor when testing the shoe, but I did not have that issue with the SC Trail. The upper also appears to be very durable. After 100 miles of trail and road-to-trail running, I have a dirty shoe, but there are no signs of early wear.
All that said, I expect the SuperComp Trail's upper and its fit to be a limiting factor for other runners. I would say that a majority of the people looking for an ultra-racing shoe are going to find the fit of their regular size to be a bit narrow in the midfoot and toe box. Some people will be able to go up a half size and find a fit that is more accommodating for their needs. But for many, even sizing up a half size will not give them the fit results they need."
Midsole
Erik: "If you love the other members of the SuperComp line (Elite, Trainer, Pacer), then you will not be let down by the SuperComp Trail. Expect the same snappy yet comfortable feel underfoot, as the midsole is both soft and responsive. Besides having a standout feel on the trail, the shoe also performs well on the roads. I had no trouble picking up the pace for some speedy road sections. The midsole and plate worked well for propulsion when trying to run flat and fast."
Outsole
Erik: "I had no issues with the SuperComp Trail's outsole, even after 100 miles of use. There were no signs of premature wear. The shoe had a good grip on rocky and dry terrain and felt nimble on technical terrain. I did not have a chance to test the grip on wet terrain thanks to another dry summer on California's Central Coast."
Comparable Models
Saucony Endorphin Edge vs. New Balance SC Trail
Erik: "The Endorphin Edge has a medium fit in the forefoot and toe box. The midsole and outsole of the Endorphin Edge feel very nice, and overall, the Edge feels plusher underfoot. The Edge might be a better choice for longer distances and for those who want more cushioning underfoot."
HOKA Tecton X 2 vs. New Balance SC Trail
Erik: "The Tecton X 2 is similar to the Endorphin Edge overall. I feel the SC Trail is a bit better for running faster and is a touch more nimble than the Tecton X 2. Like the Saucony Endorphin Edge, I may choose the Tecton X 2 for longer distances."
Nike Ultrafly Trail vs. New Balance SC Trail
Erik: "The Nike Ultrafly Trail is created to run fast over the longest distances, and it is a bit less nimble and efficient over shorter distances than the SC Trail. Furthermore, the Nike Ultrafly does not do quite as well on the most technical terrain, but it is a great choice for going the distance in an ultra marathon trail race."
New Balance Men's FuelCell SuperComp Trail
The New Balance SuperComp Trail is a fast and nimble trail racing shoe that is ideally suited for fast training runs and ultra-races.
New Balance Women's FuelCell SuperComp Trail
The New Balance SuperComp Trail is a fast and nimble trail racing shoe that is ideally suited for fast training runs and ultra-races.
