For runners who aren’t necessarily chasing podium finishes but still crave a shoe that offers a stellar performance, the New Balance SuperComp Elite v4 presents an intriguing option. This shoe brings together a clever mix of innovative design, comfort, and noticeable improvements from its predecessor versions.
Technical Specs
- Weight – 7.8oz or 221g for a US Men’s 9, 6.1oz or 173g for a US Women’s 7
- Cushion – 40mm of cushion and a 4mm heel/toe drop
- Pricing – $250 USD
- Colors – 1 colors
A Slick Upper
New Balance has made some notable improvements in the upper with the SC Elite v4. Right out of the box, the light mesh upper, designed using New Balance’s FantomFit technology, stands out. This tech aims to secure the foot down while keeping the shoe lightweight. The upper envelops the foot comfortably without causing any hot spots or irritation. Additionally, the lacing system is simple yet effective, offering a snug fit that many runners will appreciate. This all contributes to a comfortable running experience, whether tackling a marathon or going for a casual long run.
Midsole Marvels
One of the star features of the SC Elite v4 is its new 100% Peba-based FuelCell midsole. New Balance has made significant upgrades here, replacing the previous slightly mushy foam with this springier, lighter material. The midsole geometry not only looks sleek but also plays a crucial role in improving the overall weight distribution and providing an aggressive yet smooth rocker effect. This updated FuelCell midsole is boingier and offers a lively toe-off, making each stride feel energetic and fluid. The result? A bouncier and more responsive ride that adds a bit of ‘pop’ to one’s step.
The Outsole Challenge
The outsole of the SC Elite v4 takes a backseat compared to other features but is by no means a slouch. New Balance has reinforced it to offer a better grip and enhanced durability. While the focus isn’t heavily on outsole technology, it does its job well enough to ensure stability on various terrains. However, for those more interested in technical aspects, such as runners who brave diverse conditions, the changes here mainly serve to improve stiffness without compromising flexibility.
Performance on the Run
On the road, the SC Elite v4 shines brilliantly. The transition from heel to toe is silky smooth, and the shoe offers a consistent level of propulsion thanks to the new carbon fiber plate. The combination of the FuelCell midsole and thinner, rippled carbon fiber plate creates a fun and engaging ride. Many of us who have taken this shoe out for longer runs and races have found it hard to find fault with its performance capabilities.
Comfort Underfoot
Comfort is a category where this shoe excels. The massive stack height — 40 mm in the heel and 36 mm in the forefoot — ensures that legs remain comfortable over extended distances. Despite the high stack, the shoe feels stable and supportive, which is often a concern for higher-stacked shoes.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the New Balance SC Elite v4 is a well-rounded shoe that offers excellent comfort and performance. With significant improvements in the upper, midsole, and essential tweaks to the outsole, this shoe is more than capable of being a reliable companion for both everyday long runs and race days. If seeking a balanced, feature-rich running shoe with the right amount of innovation and comfort, the SC Elite v4 is worth trying.
Learn more on the New Balance website
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Check Out Other Reviewers Thoughts
As always, we gather together some of our favorite reviewers so you can get a well-rounded view of the shoe. Here are our favorites.
