New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite V5 Unsponsored Review
If you’re looking for a carbon plate race shoe that feels fast but still stable and comfortable, the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite V5 might be exactly what you need.
This was my very first time trying New Balance running shoes, let alone one of their race-day models. I didn’t know what to expect, but after putting them through proper sessions, I can confidently say they’ve earned a spot in my rotation.
Here’s everything you need to know before buying, including specs, performance, durability and my honest experience.
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite V5 Overview
The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite V5 is a premium carbon-plated racing shoe designed for maximum speed, efficiency and race-day performance. Positioned at the top of New Balance’s performance running range, it is built for runners targeting fast times from 5K through to marathon distance.
This latest version represents a clear shift toward a lighter, more streamlined and more race-focused design, while still maintaining enough comfort for longer efforts.
Key specs and details
Weight: approximately 170g (6 oz), making it around 40g lighter than the previous version
Drop: 8mm (increased from 4mm in the V4)
Price: £230 - Find them on New Balance or Pro Direct
Key features and technology
The FuelCell midsole is made from 100% PEBA foam, delivering a highly responsive and energetic ride with strong energy return. This helps reduce fatigue over long distances by returning more of the energy generated with each stride.
Energy Arc technology pairs a sport-specific carbon fibre plate geometry with strategically placed midsole voids. This combination is designed to store and release energy more efficiently, increasing overall energy return and creating a more propulsive feel through transitions.
A refined carbon fibre plate adds increased stiffness in the forefoot, which enhances toe-off and creates a more direct, forward-driving sensation when running at faster paces.
The outsole has also been updated with a high-performance rubber compound that significantly improves traction. Grip is a standout feature of the V5, offering confident contact with the ground even in wet conditions.
The upper has been redesigned for a more streamlined racing fit. It feels lighter and more performance-oriented than the previous version, while the tongue and collar are engineered to provide a smooth and natural transition from training shoe to race shoe.
Ride, fit and performance feel
The V5 delivers a noticeably different ride compared to the V4. It feels lighter, firmer and more energetic, with a more aggressive and race-focused geometry. The higher 8mm drop, combined with a stiffer plate and revised midsole design, creates a more forward-rolling sensation that encourages quicker turnover at speed.
The fit is narrower through the midfoot with a more structured racing profile. While it still accommodates a range of foot shapes, it feels more snug and performance-oriented than the V4, which had a wider and more forgiving platform. The heel is also slightly narrower, which may feel less stable for heel strikers compared to the previous model.
Overall, the V5 is faster and more efficient, but less relaxed than its predecessor, making it better suited to runners who want a more aggressive race-day shoe.
V5 vs V4 at a glance
Compared to the V4, the V5 is lighter, narrower and firmer underfoot, with a higher drop and a stiffer carbon plate. The result is a shoe that feels more propulsive and better suited to faster paces, while the V4 leaned more toward comfort and stability over pure race-day aggression.
What are they designed for?
These are built for race day from 5K to marathon, interval sessions, tempo runs and long runs with pace.
They sit in that sweet spot between performance and control. If you’ve ever struggled with overly aggressive carbon shoes, this is where the SuperComp Elite v5 really stands out.
My honest review: testing the SuperComp Elite V5
The SuperComp Elite V5 are my very first pair of New Balance shoes. I put them to the test on the track to get my first feel for them: 5x600m, 5x300m, 5x200m.
What surprised me most was how good they felt immediately. With a lot of carbon plated racing shoes, there is usually a break-in period where things feel slightly awkward or overly aggressive at first. I had that experience with the Puma Fast-R 3, which took a few sessions before it really clicked. The SuperComp Elite V5 was the opposite. From the very first rep, they just felt natural and easy to run in.
The biggest standout for me was stability. For a high-stack carbon shoe, they feel very controlled underfoot. There’s none of that unstable or “tippy” sensation you sometimes get in super shoes, especially when you’re cornering on the track or changing pace between reps. That stability made it much easier to focus on the session itself rather than thinking about how the shoe was behaving.
In terms of ride, you still get the carbon plate response, but it’s more smooth and efficient than aggressive. It doesn’t feel like it’s forcing you forward in an extreme way. Instead, it helps you hold pace comfortably, which is something I really noticed during longer reps and when fatigue started to build.
Fit-wise, they were comfortable straight out of the box with no break-in issues. The upper feels secure without being restrictive, and there were no pressure points or adjustments needed during the session.
SuperComp Elite V5 vs Puma Fast-R 3
Compared to other carbon shoes I use, like the Puma Fast-R 3, the SuperComp Elite V5 is less aggressive in terms of propulsion but noticeably more stable and forgiving.
The Fast-R 3 still has more pop and remains my preference for key races or PB attempts where I want maximum speed and responsiveness. However, that level of aggressiveness doesn’t suit everyone, especially over longer distances.
For runners who struggle with more extreme carbon racers, or who find them difficult to control at pace, the SuperComp Elite V5 is a really strong alternative. It offers a more stable, confidence-inspiring ride without losing that performance feel. It also feels like a more durable option overall, comfortably handling repeated sessions and races without showing signs of wear too quickly.
How I personally use them
Since that first session, they’ve quickly become a go-to option for my key workouts, especially interval sessions and long run workouts where I know I’ll be pushing the pace.
At the time of writing, I’m also planning to race my next 5K in them, but more as a training race rather than an all-out A race effort. I think this is the shoe I’ll reach for when I do training races, so I save my Puma’s for the goal races.
New Balance SuperComp Elite V5 FAQ
Are the New Balance SuperComp Elite v5 true to size?
Yes. I went for the same size I wear in Nike, On and Puma, and half a size down compared to Adidas where you always have to size up.
Are the New Balance SuperComp Elite v5 they good for long distances?
Yes. The combination of cushioning, stability and smooth ride makes them well suited for longer efforts, including half marathon and marathon distances.
Are the New Balance SuperComp Elite v5 beginner-friendly for a carbon shoe?
Definitely. They’re one of the most accessible carbon plate shoes thanks to their stability and less aggressive ride.
Can you use the New Balance SuperComp Elite v5 for training?
They can be used for key workouts like intervals, tempo runs and long runs with pace. They’re too premium for daily easy miles, but perfect for key sessions.
Latest running posts
This post contains some affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through this blog, however it doesn’t change the price of the item for you. Thank you for your support.