New Balance SuperComp Trainer v3: The Time Lord of running shoes
Weight: 271g (M), 212g (W)
Stack height: 40mm (heel), 34mm (forefoot)
Heel-to-toe drop: 6mm
Type: Neutral
Best for: Easy runs, long runs, tempo
The shoe
When New Balance first launched the SuperComp Trainer two years ago, a lot of people didn’t quite know what to make of the not-quite-a-daily trainer, not-quite-a-race day shoe newcomer, with its chunky 47mm stack height and carbon plate. As it turns out, the brand had stumbled upon something quite revolutionary, and the 'super trainer' category has gone on to establish itself as a permanent fixture in 2024, with almost every major brand getting in on the action.
But that's not to say New Balance got everything right the first time around. In fact, the SC Trainer v2, which launched last year, turned out to be quite the transformation, shaving off some of that stack height and adding more structure to create a shoe that felt more comfortable and confident over longer miles.
But even the v2 had its faults and now, a year on, the SC Trainer has performed yet another Doctor Who-style regeneration: the fundamental characteristics of the shoe remain, yes — a FuelCell midsole foam combined with New Balance's Energy Arc technology — but the look and feel is starkly different. The good news? The v3 is the best one yet. It even seems to have gained a clearer sense of identity: 'built for half and full marathon training', according to New Balance. So, without further ado, here's my verdict.
SuperComp Trainer v2 vs v3: What’s new?
One of the biggest updates from the v2 to v3 is the shoe's re-formulated FuelCell midsole. The latest version consists of a 20% Peba blended foam (the same as the Rebel; the SC Elite v4's midsole is 100% Peba), designed to improve energy return.
Like the previous version, it still utilises NB's Energy Arc technology: a hollow channel or ‘void’ through the centre of the midsole that allows the carbon plate to flatten into it during landing and rebound during take-off. However, in the v3, the void only runs in the rearfoot and midfoot — in the previous iterations, it ran into the forefoot. This means that more foam is packed into the forefoot, delivering a firmer ride (more on this below). In addition, the carbon plate has been 'forked' to save weight and add a little flexibility.
In terms of the upper, the SC Trainer has upgraded from a traditional engineered mesh to one that utilises New Balance’s Fantomfit technology, also used on the Rebel and SC Elite.
And when it comes to looks, things are different here, too. New Balance appear to be adopting a similar colour scheme among the FuelCell line-up this year — so much so that it's easy to mistake the Elite, Rebel and SC Trainer for one another at times. This seems like a strategic move from the brand to increase cohesiveness among the range.
Overall then, it feels like what NB have tried to achieve with the v3 is an all-round more versatile shoe. The v2 focused heavily on cushioning and comfort, making it ideal for long, easy miles, while the v3 balances cushioning with improved responsiveness and a lighter, more stable design.
How does the SC Trainer v3 fit?
I'm not sure if New Balance has tweaked its sizing over the past year, but I’ve found myself wearing a whole size up in a lot of its recent releases, including the Fresh Foam X Balos. In the SC Trainer v3, I wear a UK 9 (I’m a UK 8 in lifestyle shoes) and it’s fitted perfectly. The toe box is accommodating for my wide-ish feet, but it doesn't feel too 'baggy' either.
I've also been a big fan of the new Fantomfit uppers New Balance have been employing on their FuelCell range over the past year, and the SC Trainer v3 is no exception. It holds the foot firmly in place, while offering good breathability. Moderate padding on the tongue and ankle collar strikes the right balance between cushioning and weight saving, too: nothing too plush to detract from those speedier sessions, but enough that you're comfortable logging the longer miles.
What's it like to run in the SC Trainer v3?
The ride of the SC Trainer v3 is firmer and faster than the previous iteration, thanks to that increased concentration of foam in the forefoot. The gentle rocker helps to aid transitions, but it's not overly aggressive. In fact, I'd describe it as bouncy rather than explosive, which means you can use the shoe for daily training.
That said, I was surprised by how stiff the shoe felt on its first outing. While this eased up after a couple of runs, it definitely remains noticeable, which doesn't lend the shoe as well to easy, recovery pace. That's not to say you need to 'send it' on every single run in the SC Trainer v3; it's just slightly clunky at those really chilled paces, and as soon as you put in a tiny bit of effort, things smooth out. I've been enjoying these most for long runs (32km/20 miles) and tempo runs as part of my training for Berlin Marathon.
I'm also pleased that New Balance hasn't added any more stack to the v3, having taking some away from the v1 to the v2. Don't get me wrong, near to 40mm in the heel still makes it a max-stacked shoe, but compare it to the likes of the Hoka Skyward X (46mm) or Adidas Adizero Prime X 2.0 Strung (50mm) and you've actually got a fairly secure and grounded feel here. The wide base adds to the stability, especially when you're picking up the pace.
RW Verdict
With its firm yet cushioned ride, subtle rocker geometry and secure lockdown, NB have got things right with the SC Trainer v3. It's a shoe I've found myself looking forward to lacing up over the past few weeks — as someone who tests a lot of running shoes, that doesn't happen as often as you think.
However, my main contention with super trainers remains the price. The SC Trainer v3 retails for an eye-watering £230 — that's in line with some super shoes on the market. Yes, technically you could race in it if you wanted to, but I can imagine a lot of people wanting something lighter, a less little beefy. and more propulsive, such as the SC Elite 4 (£260). Sure, you're getting a Peba-blend midsole and a carbon plate for that package, but I can't help but feel that £230 is a little too premium for a training shoe — especially when you'd still want a softer, recovery shoe and a faster race day shoe in your rotation.
Ultimately, if you're looking for a durable long run shoe with decent cushioning that also excels at uptempo paces, this is for you. If you're looking for a more minimal, speed-focused trainer with decent ground feel, look elsewhere. In fact, if you want to stick with New Balance, then the Rebel at £140 offers better versatility for slower paces; though the SC Trainer has more cushioning and propulsion for longer runs.
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