REVIEW: NEW BALANCE FUELCELL SUPERCOMP ELITE V4

Hey everyone! Today, I want to share my thoughts on the New Balance Fuel Cell Supercomp Elite V4.

As a pretty average runner, I’m always on the lookout for gear that can enhance my performance and make me a little bit speedier. Having recently worn the Supercomp Elite V4 for a half marathon, here’s what I think makes them a great fit for long runs.

Performance That Packs a Punch

Right out of the box, I was impressed by how responsive the Supercomp Elite V4 feels. The energy return is phenomenal, giving me that extra push I need during a long run. I’ve noticed that I felt faster and more efficient when I wore them, which is always a win!

Comfort for the Long Haul

Comfort is key for me, especially during those longer runs. The cushioning in these shoes is just right—not too soft, but enough to absorb impact. I managed 13.1 miles without any niggles - I though I had tied one show a bit too tightly which caused a bit of rubbing, but I avoided any blisters. These shoes generally run quite small, I had to size up by one full size, but the snug fit kept my foot secure, which is crucial for maintaining speed.

Built to Last

One of my biggest concerns with running shoes is durability. After several weeks of training, I can confidently say the Supercomp Elite V4 holds up beautifully. They feel robust and show minimal wear, even after tackling different terrains. It’s great knowing I won’t have to replace them anytime soon, as at £260 a pair - I won’t be making buying carbon plated shoes a regular occurance.

Stylish and Breathable

Let’s talk aesthetics for a second. These shoes look fantastic! I love the sleek design, and they don’t skimp on breathability, either. The mesh upper does a great job of keeping my feet cool, which is a game changer during those hot summer runs.

I got the neon yellow and white colour way - which looks great, but after a few rainy runs the white mesh isn’t as white as it once was which is a shame. I’ve heard that baking soda and laundry detergent are a good way to clean up the mesh so I might give that a try. They also come in pink, blue and a London Marathon special edition.

A Couple of Caveats

Of course, no shoe is perfect. I did notice that they felt a bit stiff during the first couple of wears, so a small breaking-in period is necessary. Particularly around the toe, I could feel a really hard edge that I haven’t felt with other shoes. Also, while they shine in racing scenarios, I’d recommend reserving them for key workouts rather than daily training, just to keep them in prime condition.

Final Thoughts

All in all, I’m really impressed with the New Balance Supercomp Elite V4. They combine comfort, performance, and durability in a stylish package. If you’re serious about your running and looking to up your game, I definitely recommend giving these a shot. Happy running!