The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3 (SC Trainer v3) is the latest iteration in the SuperComp Trainer series, redesigned to offer a more balanced ride for long-distance training and uptempo efforts.
This version aims to refine the ride and fit, addressing feedback from previous models—does it succeed? Keep reading to find out.
Key Specifications
- Price: $180 at REI.com / Sportsshoes (For UK readers)
- Weight: 9.3 oz (264g) for US Men's 9
- Drop: 6mm with a stack Height of 36.8 mm at the heel; 29.5 mm at the forefoot
- Upper: Engineered mesh with FANTOMFIT technology
- Midsole: FuelCell foam (PEBA/EVA blend) with Energy Arc carbon plate
- Outsole: Rubber with exposed midfoot foam
- Extra Attributes: Gusseted tongue, no reflective elements
Sizing and Fit
The SC Trainer v3 fits true to size for most runners with average width feet but it does have a snugness in the midfoot, and toe box.
Overall, it has a secure fit, but the toe box has a slightly lower volume, which may cause pressure on the big toes during longer runs - if you have a BIG big toe.
Alastair Dixon
Runners with wider feet or those prone to toe discomfort might consider trying a half size up or opting for the 2E wide version if you know you have wide feet.
Performance Review
Now, although I didn't get to test the SC Trainer v2, I've done a little research, and have deduced that v3 takes the best elements of v1 and v2, smooths out their extremes, and finally lands in a sweet spot, producing a training shoe that offers consistency.
The SC Trainer v3 has a really natural-feeling ride, one that does a great job of propelling your forward with a responsive take off.
It's certainly a fast shoe, but with that speed you do lose a little bit of cushioning under foot.
The midsole is a PEBA/EVA blend isn't quite as soft as earlier FuelCell setups, but that’s actually a good thing here.
It’s still protective, especially on longer efforts, but there’s a welcome firmness that gives the ride a much more responsive, snappy feel underfoot, making it better suited to up-tempo running, rather than for recovery easy long jogs.
That balance makes it perfect for long runs where you want a little structure and pop without sacrificing too much on comfort.
The Energy Arc plate in the SC Trainer v3 also hits a nice balance, providing support without being overly stiff or intrusive.
What really stands out to me is the easy forefoot flex (the midfoot has more tension for faster long distance paces), and it makes the shoe feel less mechanical and more forgiving on easy-paced runs or longer efforts where your form may start to fade.
That said, this shoe feels best when I’m running at uptempo or marathon paces. That’s when the geometry, the mild forefoot rocker, and the firm foam really start to work together and roll me through transitions efficiently.
But when I slow things down for an easy or recovery run, it starts to feel a bit clunky.
The firmer foam and stiff plate just don’t lend themselves to that kind of shuffle — they want you to lean in and move with intention - so it's not a do it all super trainer like you may be expecting, rather it fits more into the speed training shoe category.
Traction and durability have both been solid so far and the outsole rubber compound is holding up nicely with barely any signs of wear. However, there's a lot of exposed foam on the outsole in the midfoot area, which does not have very good traction or durability.
New balance has done this to save on overall weight, but it does cost durability.
And for a shoe with a pretty high stack, it still feels stable — likely due to the wide platform and that midsole groove underfoot that helps with lateral stability.
On foot, the upper feels comfortable very breathable and secure. The lockdown through the midfoot and heel is solid — I didn’t experience any slipping, even during fast efforts (4min 20/km pace).
The padding around the collar, heel counter, and tongue is just right too. No lace bite, no hot spots.
There’s some noticeable pressure over my big toes, especially once I get into double-digit mileage. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s there, and I wish is wasn't.
It makes me wonder if a half size up might help… though that could come at the expense of losing a solid heel lockdown, which I really like in this shoe.
My Verdict
In short, yes—the SC Trainer v3 is worth $180. It feels light on foot for how much structure it packs, it handles volume, at speed, very well, and it’s protective without being dull.
But it definitely rewards momentum and structure in your stride.
If you’re looking for something soft and easy for slow recovery days, this isn't it. But for marathon training, fast long runs, and those uptempo sessions where you still want some cushion? The SC Trainer v3 nails it for me.
You can pick up a pair today, for $180 at the following online retailers:
$180 at REI.com / Sportsshoes (my favorite online retailer in the UK)
