New Balance has been loving the element of surprise when it comes to the SuperComp Elite series. Each version of the shoe has had new or altered elements–and the SC Elite v5 is no exception. Lighter, leaner and more aggressive, the v5 ditches some of the staple features that made the v4 a fan favourite–but in doing so, it steps into the ring as a true performance-driven marathon racing shoe.
If you’re an experienced runner looking for a no-nonsense, propulsive ride on race day, the SC Elite v5 is the shoe for you. Beyond the upgraded upper and grippier outsole, the changes here are all about speed: a stiffer carbon plate, a narrower platform and less foam.
Let’s take a closer look.
The specs
Category: RacingWeight: 5.5 oz./155 g (women’s size 7)Drop: 8mmStack height: 40 mm (heel), 32 mm (forefoot)MSRP: C$330.00Available: Aug. 7
Upper
I love how the shoe’s single-layer woven upper hugs my foot, keeping it securely locked down. I often struggle with heel sliding or the feeling of my laces digging in–and my main issue with the v4 was the heel rubbing. But thanks to the v5’s gusseted tongue and cushioned heel, those problems were gone–and I didn’t even have to do the classic (and super annoying) heel-lock.
Overall, the fit feels supportive and flexible but, at the same time, light and breathable. The secret? New Balance’s signature FantomFit technology, returning after its debut in the Elite series with the v4.
Midsole
If you grew attached to the v4, you may not love the changes made to the v5’s midsole. It’s narrower, less cushiony, stiffer and has a higher drop by an entire 4 mm. It’s a pretty significant shift–one that could push the series toward a whole new audience.
It’s certainly firmer than the v4, despite being built with the same 100 per cent PEBA foam and the same 40-mm heel stack. But with less foam in the forefoot, the drop has increased from 4 mm (a moderate to low-drop shoe) to 8 mm, which leans more toward the high-drop end of the spectrum. Now, it definitely appeals more to those looking to reduce the stress on their Achilles tendons and calves. Notably, the platform is also 25 per cent narrower, making it less ideal for those with wider feet or anyone wanting a bit more stability.
The shoe feels fast and aggressive, and rolls me onto my toes to propel me forward. It helps that the carbon fibre plate buried in the midsole is 38 per cent stiffer–talk about springing you forward. Personally, I was okay with the firm ride–but then, I’m not running marathons. Over 42.2K, I could see racers itching for that extra cushion. But, that plushness in the v4 brought added weight, and now, the v5 (women’s size 7) is 1.2 oz. (33 g) lighter.
Outsole
The updated outsole also contributes to this reduced weight. The lightweight, grippy rubber gives me the traction I need to feel confident in my stride on any surface–and obviously, a wet road is the last thing I want to be thinking about on race day.
Final thoughts
If you’re looking to move up to the front of the pack come race day, grabbing a pair of the SC Elite v5 should be on your summer to-do list. It’s the perfect match for experienced runners who already have a reliable daily trainer, need something snappy and aggressive to add a serious pop to their stride on race day. For those chasing speed, there’s no better way to toe the line than with this ride.
