New Balance finally figured it out. After two versions of the SC Trainer – the original super trainer, by the way – that felt like trying to race in a moon boot, v3 shows up looking leaner, meaner, and actually ready to move. The massive stack is still here (because FuelCell is life), but New Balance chopped it down just enough to make the ride feel smoother, lighter, and way less clunky.
You still get a carbon plate with Energy Arc, but the geometry’s been cleaned up to roll through transitions instead of fighting you. The new FuelCell foam is lighter and bouncier, and paired with a more breathable mesh upper that ditches the puff and bulk of v2. It’s still a lot of shoe, but now it runs like it wants to be on your feet more than once a week.
It’s not a race day killer, but for long runs, steady efforts, and even some daily mileage, the New Balance SC Trainer v3 finally earns its name. Super shoe vibes, trainer comfort—for $180, that’s a not a bad spot to sit in the plated trainer space.
