New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2 Verdict
The New Balance SuperComp Trainer v2 stands out as a fantastic and adaptable maximalist trainer, offering a combination of plushness and energy in its ride. It’s suitable for various types of runs, including recovery, easy jogs, long outings, and faster workouts, although it seems to truly shine during slower paces. The second version introduces a fresh upper and midsole design that enhances comfort and reduces weight, yet slightly sacrifices cushioning compared to its predecessor.
Who should buy the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2 ?
If you are looking for a speed trainer which has a very soft, cushioned ride, the SuperComp Trainer is a great option. If you want a cheaper, more durable version of the SuperComp Elite v3, it’s also a great option.
Who should not buy the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2 ?
If you enjoy minimal speed trainers which have lots of ground feel, the SuperComp Trainer v2 is not for you.
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2 Introduction
The SuperComp Trainer v1, which debuted last year, stood out as a highly distinctive shoe due to its defiance of the 40 mm midsole stack limit set by World Athletics. Featuring a convex-shaped carbon plate and a pronounced decoupled groove, it delivered an immensely enjoyable and responsive ride.
In my personal experience, the SuperComp Trainer v1 was among my top picks from last year’s running shoe releases. It managed to strike a balance between remarkable softness and stability without feeling sluggish. Its impressive energy return and substantial cushioning allowed me to incorporate it into various types of runs, including recovery, easy jogs, steady paces, and longer distances.
While the SuperComp Trainer was intended as a training version of the SuperComp Elite racer, designed to be a more durable and cost-effective option for training sessions, the initial version went beyond this role and proved itself as a versatile all-rounder rather than a specialized speed-focused trainer. It didn’t excel exclusively in speedwork.
However, the v1 did have some drawbacks. Its semi-bootie construction upper, along with a rigid collar, led to discomfort around the ankles, affecting overall comfort.
Now, with the SuperComp Trainer v2, significant changes have been implemented. The shoe’s upper design has shifted to a more traditional approach, the midsole is slimmer, and adjustments have been made to the midsole foam.
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2 First Impressions
During my initial 7 km hill repeats workout in the SuperComp Trainer v2, the first notable change was the increased comfort of the upper. The transition to a traditional upper design in this version greatly contributed to a performance-oriented feel.
Throughout the run, the SuperComp Trainer v2 exhibited a blend of softness, liveliness, and stability. This combination resulted in a feeling of effortlessness, particularly evident during uphill surges where I sensed an added push from the shoe.
Interestingly, the shoe’s characteristics brought to mind the New Balance More v4. Both shoes fall under the category of maximalist trainers and share a common feature of deep decoupled grooves on their outsoles. The sensation of the void beneath the shoe during foot strikes was both palpable and audible, creating a unique connection to the ground.
In comparison to the first version, the SuperComp Trainer v2 displayed a nuanced shift. It felt slightly less cushioned yet a touch softer, while also providing heightened stability. This enhanced agility translated into a heightened ability to increase the pace compared to its predecessor.
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2 Upper
Unlike the stiff and inflexible upper of version 1, the SuperComp Trainer v2 brings a welcome change with its more conventional upper design. This adjustment not only offers a better fit but also enhances overall comfort. The updated mesh material is more pliable, allowing for improved conformity to the shape of the foot. Notably, the collar and heel tab now provide cushioning, contributing to a more comfortable experience.
The tongue of the shoe is flat and semi-gusseted, although it might shift slightly during runs, it doesn’t pose a significant concern. Heel slippage is not an issue, and I find that using a runner’s knot ensures a secure lockdown.
In terms of fit, the SuperComp Trainer v2 boasts a spacious and accommodating midfoot, forefoot, and toe box. This characteristic makes it a recommended choice for runners with wider feet. The shoe’s sizing remains consistent, and for my preferences, I find that it works best when paired with thin or medium thickness socks.
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2 Sole Unit
The decision to reduce the midsole stack height in the SuperComp Trainer v2 likely stems from a desire to achieve lower weight and improved versatility. This change aligns with the goal of enhancing the shoe’s overall performance.
New Balance’s intention with the SuperComp Trainer v2 appears to have been to make it faster than its predecessor, v1. After putting it through various tempo and threshold sessions, I can confidently confirm that this goal has been achieved.
During these sessions, the SuperComp Trainer v2 excelled, proving its capability for marathon-paced efforts. In comparison to the first version, it feels more streamlined and less bulky, contributing to a speedier experience.
Despite the reduction in stack height, the SuperComp Trainer v2 retains a notable level of cushioning and softness. In fact, it stands out as one of the softest shoes I’ve tried this year. If you appreciate a plush and cushioned ride, this shoe will likely align well with your preferences.
The SuperComp Trainer v2 retains a similar sole setup geometry as its predecessor. Its carbon plate is curved, allowing it to flatten upon landing and then propel you forward upon release. The plate offers a degree of flexibility, particularly in the forefoot, preventing an excessively rigid feel. As a result, the trainer’s ride is more relaxed compared to the SuperComp Elite.
The SuperComp Trainer v2 excels in activities like long runs, easy-paced, recovery, and steady runs. While I used it for two speed interval workouts, I found it a bit cumbersome and soft for sprinting paces.
What I find most appealing about the shoe is its lively feel underfoot. The ride delivers a sense of bounce and dynamism, thanks to the combination of the plate and the broad channel underneath the shoe that widens upon impact. Although the extreme bounce from v1 has diminished due to the lower stack height, the v2 still ranks among the bounciest shoes available.
The rocker effect in v2 is less prominent compared to v1. This adjustment is attributed to the reduced heel stack height and the softer foam in v2. As a result, the energy-saving aspect during long runs is not as pronounced in v2 as it was in v1.
The FuelCell formulation in the SuperComp Trainer v2 has undergone changes: it’s now lighter and less dense. This alteration has resulted in improved durability and reduced vulnerability to scuffing. I recall observing considerable wear on the outsole after testing v1, but v2 has exhibited much better longevity.
While the outsole features decent rubber coverage on areas prone to high wear, the design incorporates a deep groove in the middle, leading to a significant amount of exposed midsole foam. As a consequence, the overall durability may not match up to that of most trainers. Additionally, the rubber used is softer and less resilient. Traction performance is average, and I wouldn’t recommend it as a top choice for wet conditions.
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2 Conclusions
I didn’t anticipate enjoying this version as much as the first due to the reduced stack height, but it pleasantly surprised me.
In my opinion, it’s a solid update that leans more towards being a speed trainer.
The most crucial improvement is the upper. The collar no longer causes discomfort around the ankles, and the adoption of a traditional upper design fits me better.
At $180, it’s $20 pricier than the average plated speed trainer, yet I believe the cost is justified.
The SuperComp Trainer v2 is a $180 running shoe that truly delivers a $180 running experience. It’s versatile across various run types and paces, offering an engaging and enjoyable ride.
I’m planning to keep the SuperComp Trainer v2 in my rotation for a considerable time, using it for steady-paced and long runs when I desire a plush ride with energy return.
When compared to the Hoka Mach X, my current favorite speed trainer, the SuperComp Trainer v2 doesn’t match up in terms of speed or durability, but it offers a much more cushioned experience. I believe slower runners will find the SuperComp Trainer v2 to be a preferred choice.
For me personally, the Mach X still holds the edge due to its snappier and more responsive feel during workouts.