At RUNNEA we have a clear premise: the choice of footwear not only defines your comfort, but also your performance. Over the years, we have witnessed how technology in running shoes has evolved, always seeking to offer runners the perfect combination of speed, stability and comfort. And today I want to talk to you about one of those shoes that manages to combine these 3 features in a masterful way. The renewed New Balance FuelCell Supercomp Elite v4 marks a new milestone in this evolution.
A winning combination: speed and comfort
The New Balance FuelCell Supercomp Elite v4 stands out for achieving a balance that many popular runners are looking for: combining the speed of a carbon plateshoe with the comfort and safety needed to face long distances without sacrificing comfort. This balance is very complicated to get and is especially valuable for runners who, although not elite, aspire to improve their times in races like the marathon.
The importance of comfort over long distances
One of the main challenges when facing a marathon is to maintain a proper running technique during the 42 kilometers. In this regard, shoes that are too technical can work against you if you do not have a refined technique. The New Balance FuelCell Supercomp Elite v4 offers that extra comfort and stability that more radical shoes cannot provide, making the running experience much more pleasant and safe.
Best sellers
New Balance running shoes
New Balance Fresh FoamX 1080 v13
- 3
- 3.5
- 4
- 4.5
- 5
- 5.5
- 6
- 6.5
- 7
- 7.5
- 8
- 8.5
- 9
- 9.5
- 10
- 10.5
- 11
- 11.5
- 12
- 12.5
New Balance Nitrel v5
- K3
- K3.5
- K4
- K4.5
- K5
- 4
- 4.5
- 5
- 5.5
- 6
- 6.5
- 7
- 7.5
- 8
- 8.5
- 9
- 9.5
- 10
- 10.5
- 11
- 11.5
- 12.5
New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6
- 3.5
- 4
- 4.5
- 5
- 5.5
- 6
- 6.5
- 7
- 7.5
- 8
- 8.5
- 9
- 9.5
- 10
- 10.5
- 11
- 11.5
- 12
- 12.5
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v8
- 3
- 3.5
- 4
- 4.5
- 5
- 5.5
- 6
- 6.5
- 7
- 7.5
- 8
- 8.5
- 9
- 9.5
- 10
- 10.5
- 11
- 11.5
- 12
- 12.5
New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v14
- 2
- 3
- 3.5
- 4
- 4.5
- 5
- 5.5
- 6
- 6.5
- 7
- 7.5
- 8
- 8.5
- 9
- 9.5
- 10
- 10.5
- 11
- 11.5
- 12
- 12.5
New Balance 520 v8
- K2
- K3
- K3.5
- K4
- K4.5
- K5
- K5.5
- K10
- K10.5
- K11.5
- K12
- K12.5
- 3.5
- 4
- 4.5
- 5
- 5.5
- 6
- 6.5
- 7
- 7.5
- 8
- 8.5
- 9
- 9.5
- 10
- 10.5
- 11
- 11.5
- 12
- 12.5
- 13.5
Advanced technology for greater efficiency
FuelCell cushioning
The New Balance FuelCell Supercomp Elite v4 's 100% Peba advanced cushioning system is one of the most prominent features of this shoe. This material offers exceptional response and rebound, allowing you to achieve an efficiency and speed in each stride like we have never seen before in the American brand. The feeling of softness and dynamism it provides is very good, making each step feel natural and powerful.
Energy Arc Carbon Plate
The innovative Energy Arc technology combines the geometry of the carbon fiber plate with a strategic hollow channel, allowing more energy to be stored and released with each stride. This results in an extremely smooth and natural heel-to-toe transition, improving running efficiency and reducing muscle fatigue.
Fantomfit Upper
The upper of the New Balance FuelCell Supercomp Elite v4, made from lightweight and breathable Fantomfit material, ensures a secure and comfortable fit. This upper not only improves foot ventilation, but also helps keep the weight of the shoe to a minimum, ideal for long distances.
What does the launch of the FuelCell SC Elite v4 mean for New Balance?
"Years of research with some of the world's fastest athletes helped us perfect the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4. Our ultimate race day shoe combines a PEBA Fuel Cell foam midsole with a full-length carbon plate for a fast-feeling, energetic ride that delivers energy return with every stride," said Coti Campos, Global Product Manager at New Balance.
Campos explained very well the type of shoe that this New Balance FuelCell Supercomp Elite v4 is, a flying model that not only continues New Balance's legacy of innovation, but elevates it to new heights. This release is undoubtedly one of the highlights of New Balance Balance's 2024 running shoes cat. Offering a combination of the latest technology in cushioning, propulsion and comfort, these FuelCell SC Elite v4 are the American company 's fastest shoes yet.
New Balance FuelCell SC Elite v4 vs. New Balance FuelCell SC Elite v3
When comparing the two latest versions of New Balances FuelCell Supercomp Elite line, the v4 version stands out for several significant improvements over the v3:
- Updated Cushioning: FuelCell cushioning has been updated to offer more efficient rebound and a more dynamic running feel, thanks to its Peba development.
- Optimized carbon plate: The carbon fiber plate with the Energy Arc system has been optimized to be lighter and provide greater propulsion and stability.
- Improved traction and durability: The outsole has been updated, improving traction on a wider variety of surfaces and increasing the shoe's durability.
- Design: The v4 features a more modern, sleeker look, aligned with current trends and a renewed commitment to sustainability.
Ideal runner profile for the New Balance FuelCell SC Elite v4
Who should buy them?
The New Balance FuelCell Supercomp Elite v4 is ideal for high-performance runners looking for a lightweight, fast and exceptionally responsive shoe. It is perfect for those who participate in popular races and are looking to improve their efficiency and speed over half and long distances, such as half marathons and marathons. In addition, they are designed for runners who value comfort and stability as much as speed, offering adequate support to maintain efficient running technique throughout the competition.
Who shouldn't buy them?
This model is not ideal for runners who prefer shorter distance runs, uneven terrain or shoes with specific features for low-intensity training. It may also not be suitable for beginner runners who are looking for more comfort and do not prioritize reactivity and speed as much.
Comparison with other flying shoes on the market
Nike Vaporfly 3
The Nike Vaporfly 3 is lighter, with a higher drop and a lower profile. If you're looking for more cushioning and to run at more controlled paces, the New Balance FuelCell Supercomp Elite v4 is the right choice.
adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3
Both shoes are intended for long distances and have similar cushioning. However, the adidas Lightstrike foam is firmer, which may offer a more stable feel but less comfort compared to the FuelCell SC Elite v4.
HOKA Cielo X1
The HOKA Cielo X1 focuses on maximum running efficiency with a unique midsole geometry. The New Balance, meanwhile, better balances cushioning innovation with carbon plate propulsion, offering greater comfort over longer distances.
PUMA Fast-R Nitro Elite 2
The PUMA Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 is faster and more aggressive, but the FuelCell SC Elite v4 offers greater comfort and protection, making it more suitable for longer distances.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 offers a similar running experience to the New Balance, but the FuelCell SC Elite v4 excels in protection, rebound and fit.
ASICS Metaspeed Sky
Although similar in technical specs, the New Balance offers a softer, more comfortable midsole, while the ASICS has a more pronounced rocker effect. If you're looking for more comfort, choose the FuelCell SC Elite v4.
Is it worth the investment?
The price of the New Balance FuelCell Supercomp Elite v4 is 280€, in line with the main competing models. Considering their technological innovations, performance improvements and commitment to sustainability, they represent a worthwhile investment for demanding runners looking to beat their personal bests but also want some comfort and safety.
In a market where carbon plate running shoes have become the standard for top competition, the New Balance FuelCell Supercomp Elite v4 more than justifies its price tag. Many RUNNEA TEAM members already have them as one of their favorites for marathon racing.
Read more news about: Running News
