New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3 Review: A Stable, Cushioned Long-Run Workhorse
GEAR & SHOE REVIEWS
When New Balance says a shoe delivers “comfort every step of the way,” I’m immediately curious — because marathon training has a way of exposing any shoe that doesn’t deliver. So today, we're diving into the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3 — a shoe New Balance specifically markets for half and full marathon training, crafted for long runs, and even potentially race day.
Before we get into it: I bought this shoe with my own money, and all opinions are 100% my own.
What This Shoe Is Supposed to Be
The SuperComp Trainer v3 comes from the FuelCell line — New Balance’s more performance-oriented collection (as opposed to Fresh Foam). On paper, this model is meant to be a cushioned yet responsive long-run workhorse.
New Balance lists it as:
Stability: 2/4
Cushioning: 3/4
Weight: 7.5 oz
Drop: 6 mm
It also stacks some notable features:
FuelCell foam (a PEBA/EVA blend — same family as the Rebel v4)
Energy Arc plate for propulsion and stability
PhantomFit mesh upper
Gusseted tongue
Grippy outsole for a stable ride
And yes, it’s a plated trainer — but we’re at a point in running shoe evolution where a carbon plate no longer automatically means “super shoe.” Sometimes it’s simply there to stabilize the stack height and keep the ride structured.
Pricing — A Tale of Two Markets
In the U.S., the shoe sits at $179.99, which I honestly think is fair considering the plate + foam combo in today’s market.
Outside the U.S.?
I’ve seen it priced as high as £230 in the UK.
Huge discrepancy. Odd. I don’t have answers — but maybe New Balance does.
Comparing the v3 to the v2 (and a Little Bit to Rebel v4)
New Balance has changed this model significantly across v1, v2, and v3 — so much so that each version almost feels like a different shoe entirely.
Here’s what stood out:
v3 vs v2
v3 is more stable
v2 was softer and noticeably bouncier
v3 gives a more controlled ride
v2 felt more “fun,” but perhaps too unstable for some runners, especially on long training miles
vs Rebel v4
Both share similar foam, but:
Rebel v4 = uptempo shoe
SC Trainer v3 = long-run cruise control
Rebel feels quicker
SC Trainer v3 feels more durable and structured
The plate in the SC Trainer v3 feels like it’s assisting stability more than speed.
First Impressions: Unboxing + Step-In Feel
When I opened the box, my first reaction was: This is a beautiful shoe.
The black/bleached lime colorway is sleek, and the upper immediately looked high-quality.
When I slipped it on:
Soft feel, but not as soft as v2
Upper fit was secure and locked-in
More cushioning than I personally prefer (I’m minimalistic with uppers), but it still felt great
Heel padding is plush without being overbuilt
It felt like a shoe that would shine on long, steady miles.
Running in the Shoe
I used the SC Trainer v3 for long runs at marathon pace. Here’s what stood out:
Very comfortable
Stable even at slower warm-up miles
Soft but not mushy
Carbon plate reduced foot fatigue
Smooth rocker feel
Responsive enough for pace changes
Would I use it for speed work?
Probably not — I have specific shoes for fast sessions.
Could you?
Yes, but I think it shines best exactly where New Balance says it does: long training runs.
Pros
✔ Upper Light, secure, breathable, and very comfortable.
✔ Heel lockdown Fantastic. No slipping, no friction, no hotspots.
✔ Gusseted tongue Always a win — keeps everything aligned and secure.
✔ Stable ride The plate + foam combo feels guided and predictable.
✔ Comfortable long-run feel Soft enough to baby your feet, firm enough to keep the pace honest.
Cons
✘ Not a speed shoe But to be fair, it’s not designed to be.
✘ International pricing is wild No idea why — but it’s a drawback for runners outside the U.S.
✘ Constant version rebuilds New Balance changed so much between v2 and v3 that you can’t assume you’ll like this version just because you loved the last. If you’re upgrading, try it in person before committing.
Who Is This Shoe For?
The FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3 is best for:
Half marathon and marathon training
Long runs
Steady marathon-pace workouts
Runners who want a stable, cushioned, plated trainer
Those who want a comfortable shoe for piling on miles
It’s not ideal for:
Pure speed workouts
Runners who loved the bounciness of v2 and want that same feel
Minimalist-style runners
Final Thoughts
This is a great long-run shoe — stable, cushy, smooth, and well-built. If you’re training for a long-distance race and want a plated trainer that doesn’t feel harsh or overly aggressive, the SC Trainer v3 is a solid pick.
Just make sure to try it first if you’re coming from v2 — the changes are significant.
And that wraps up this week’s shoe review — thank you for tuning in! Stay tuned for next week’s review, and until then, have a great week of running.