While the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 shares plenty of DNA with last year’s v4, the feel on- and under-foot is noticeably different.
The lower-to-the-ground stance, a touch more stability, and stiffer, snappier carbon plate make it one of the most balanced plated racing shoes I’ve run in recently, and it’s now competitively lightweight, too.
For those who enjoyed the SC Elite v4’s comfort and smoothness but wanted a lighter geometry, more connection to the road and more explosive toe-off, this update is worth a serious look.
There are still some quirks worth learning about, however, so enjoy this review, and let it help you determine whether this racer is going to be worth it, for you.
Key specifications
- Price: $250 at DSG / Sportsshoes.com (UK)
- Weight: 7.2 oz (204 g) in US Men’s 9 (my pair) - lighter than before and now comparable with other top racing shoes
- Drop: 8mm (was 4mm)
- Upper: Single-layer mesh with FANTOMFIT for breathable, secure lockdown
- Midsole: 100% PEBA FuelCell foam, tuned firmer than v4 for added response. Full-length carbon fiber plate with Energy Arc geometry
- Outsole: New 1.7 mm rubber compound and lug layout for improved traction and durability
- Extra attributes: Forefoot rocker geometry; narrower midfoot/heel platform to reduce weight
Sizing and fit
They run true to size with a medium width fit.
Sizing and fit advice
Step-in comfort is high for a plated racer, thanks to a nicely padded heel collar and gusseted tongue.
The fit is secure through the midfoot and forefoot, though the tongue is on the short side, which can cause lace bite if you use racer’s loop lacing system for added heel lock. More on how that affects performance, in just a moment.
Alastair Dixon
Performance review
The New Balance SC Elite v5 feels immediately familiar if you’ve run in the SC Elite v4, but the updates are still noticeable.
The forefoot stack now sits at 32 mm, giving them an 8mm drop (was 4mm), which when paired with the slightly firmer midsole tuning, makes the shoe feel more connected to the road without sacrificing marathon-distance cushioning.
The FuelCell PEBA midsole still delivers that smooth, balanced ride I enjoyed in the v4, but the stiffer carbon plate gives a snappier toe-off.
This setup locks into marathon pace almost without thinking, making it easy to cruise once you’re rolling.
Alastair Dixon
Stability is where the v5 earns a gold star among super shoes. It’s one of the more stable plated racers I’ve run in, especially in the forefoot.
The narrower midfoot and heel save weight, but they do trim some stability in those zones, still, it’s less “wobbly” than many higher-stack racers. Rearfoot and midfoot strikers who transition smoothly through their stride will likely find it a comfortable and confidence-inspiring platform.
Breathability is excellent. The FANTOMFIT single-layer mesh upper keeps feet cool, even in warm race conditions, while maintaining a secure midfoot lock-in. It’s a shoe I can confidently wear for a marathon without overheating or thinking about your feet.
The outsole is a quiet upgrade.
The new rubber compound and lug layout bite well in both wet and dry conditions, adding a little more security through corners than the v4, and durability looks solid for a race-day shoe.
Not everything is perfect, however.
The heel lock isn’t as dialled as I’d like, there’s a touch of movement unless you crank the laces, which risks collar bite due to that short tongue (see photos above).
The forefoot is also very rigid, which some may find too stiff for shorter, sharper races.
While it’s fast, it’s not as explosively propulsive as the most aggressive supershoes like the Endorphin Elite 2, Rocket X 3, or Vaporfly 4, and many will love them because of it.
My verdict
The FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 is for runners who want a plated marathon shoe that’s comfortable for the full distance, has a responsive, bouncy ride (thank you 100% PEBA FuelCell foam), breathes well, and offers a slightly lower, more connected feel than most modern supershoes.
It’s not the shoe for you if you need maximum rearfoot stability or crave the most aggressive propulsion tech available. But if you’re looking for something you can race in confidently without fighting your shoes, the SC Elite v5 delivers, and at 7.2 oz, it’s impressively light for how much protection it packs.
I’d happily wear these on marathon day, and they’ve earned a spot in my rotation for race-pace long runs too.
You can pick up a pair for $250, from the following stores:
