Singapore running enthusiast and content creator Melissa Foo returns to Sole Mates for a second time to share her thoughts on New Balance’s latest race day shoe - the New Balance SuperComp Elite v4.
"Sole Mates" is a series made by runners created for runners, and a SportPlus.sg initiative to help you find the right running footwear for you and your runs.
As part of this series, SportPlus.sg has teamed up with local running content creators, Key Opinion Leaders and athletes to have them share their thoughts on the latest running footwear.
A collaboration celebrating New Balance’s ‘Run Your Way’ philosophy and this year's Nagoya Women's Marathon and Nagoya City Marathon, SportPlus.sg kicks off 2024’s first 3 episodes of "Sole Mates" delving into the latest New Balance running shoes, to garner insights into how shoes can embody every runner’s unique personality and running style.
Having gone through three previous iterations, the New Balance SuperComp Elite v4 pretty much redesigned the entire silhouette of its SC Elite shoe, and has garnered many positive reviews so far.
Running influencer Melissa Foo is the guest on set to share with host John Yeong on her thoughts about how the SuperComp Elite v4 has helped her with her up tempo runs, and how it fares against earlier versions of the shoe.
You can read up on our special feature of Melissa Foo for the Nagoya Women’s Marathon here.
Featuring a ‘White With Bleached Lime Glo And Hot Mango’ colourway, the SuperComp Elite v4 measures 40mm in the rearfoot and 36mm in the forefoot. This means an overall offset of 4mm, which is considered pretty gentle for race day shoes on the whole. On the exterior not only does the shoe look sleek with a more prominent rocker profile, it is also very colourful in both its campaign colour and London 2024 colourways!
Weighing at 237g, the shoe weighs slightly heavier than SC Elite v3, but is still a lightweight shoe with a stronger pop that makes it more well received by most runners.
Melissa shares with us three key features of the New Balance SuperComp Elite v4, followed by her own personal experience using the shoe. Read on to find out more.
Updated Fuelcell Midsole
Possibly the biggest advancement of the Supercomp Elite V4, this racing shoe boasts a groundbreaking midsole foam crafted entirely from 100% PEBA, setting a new standard in lightweight yet responsive cushioning. This innovative material, combined with a redesigned carbon fibre plate, marks a significant leap forward in performance technology.
With an impressive 87% energy return, a notable improvement from its predecessor's 83% in the v3, athletes can expect unparalleled propulsion and efficiency with every stride. The incorporation of this advanced midsole foam not only enhances energy return but also ensures a dynamic and responsive ride, enabling athletes to push their limits and achieve their goals with confidence.
Whether racing on the track or tackling long distances on the road, it can be safely said that the FuelCell Supercomp Elite V4 empowers Melissa to perform at her best, providing the support and propulsion needed as a race day shoe to reach her running goals.
Thinner Mesh Upper
Upon first impression, the updated upper mesh feels a lot more breathable and lighter compared to the previous version as the v4 has a thinner mesh. This feature was made possible when New Balance’s FantomFit technology made its return.
FantomFit technology utilises a no-sew process to create a fused upper material, which reduces weight while maintaining structural integrity and support. Users can expect to feel the structure in the midfoot area due to the increase in the midfoot lockdown.
Melissa explains, “In Singapore’s weather, you definitely need shoes that are water-resistant. The material of the upper mesh is very breathable. Whenever it is raining, your feet will not get clogged up in water. This makes it easier to dry and clean the shoe as well.”
FantomFit technology is often incorporated into New Balance's running shoes and other performance-oriented footwear, offering athletes a combination of flexibility, support, and breathability for enhanced performance. The result is a snug and comfortable fit that moulds to the foot, providing a seamless feel and reducing the risk of irritation or discomfort during physical activity.
Increased Energy Return and Responsiveness
Carbon fibre plates are not new to New Balance shoes, in fact New Balance were the first to introduce them into high performance daily trainers in the SC Trainer back in 2022. Similarly, these have been incorporated into the SuperComp Elite v4 as well. The full length carbon plate has a profound impact on performance, particularly in enhancing energy return and promoting forward propulsion during running.
These plates are strategically positioned within the midsole, to provide stiffness and spring-like responsiveness. When the foot strikes the ground and applies pressure, the ‘cavity’ at the bottom of the shoe expands and ‘boosts’ the user forward.
“It is definitely more responsive than the v3 version as well. A lot bouncier and a lot more responsive as well!” says Melissa, comparing the responsiveness of the v4 to the v3.
One of the key benefits of carbon fibre plates is their ability to increase running economy by reducing the amount of energy expended with each step. The stiffness of the plate contributes to a more stable and efficient stride, reducing fatigue and risk of injury over long distances.
Melissa adds, “When I set a higher pace on my treadmill, it continues to propel me forward and to maintain my pace even when I’m tired. The shoe does this with its energy return.”
The incorporation of carbon fibre plates in New Balance shoes represents the improvement in performance for users, enabling runners to push their limits and achieve their next personal best!
My Personal Running Experience
Ahead of the Nagoya Women’s Marathon, Melissa had been diligently training by doing long runs over the weekends. These are also accompanied by some key workout days such as interval trainings. Deciding to take the SuperComp Elite v4 out for some intervals, she noticed the responsiveness of the shoe as its stand-out feature.
Melissa shares, “I did some intervals at a much faster pace in this pair of shoes. I could really feel the shoe picking up pace quite easily. The energy return is so strong, it really is returning all my energy. Even when I’m tired, the shoe automatically picks up and forces me to run at this pace.”
Host John Yeong asked, “What is one feature that you think can be improved on for future iterations?”
“I would make a wider version of the shoe. For this pair of shoes, I sized up from a US 8.5 to a US 9. The front of the shoe is wide but the middle of the shoe felt a little bit loose. I would prefer if the shoe was more tailored for people with wide feet where the middle of the shoe is still streamlined but the front remains wide,” Melissa shared.
As part of New Balance’s ‘Run Your Way’ campaign, an initiative aimed at celebrating individuality, diversity, and personal expression within the running community. The campaign emphasises the idea that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to running and encourages runners to embrace their unique styles, preferences, and motivations.
Melissa believes that the SuperComp Elite v4 is the right fit for many groups of people due to its comfort and it helps to pick up the pace. In line with the campaign, this racer shoe isn’t just made for high-performance athletes. If you are simply looking for a pair of shoes that’ll help you achieve your next running goal, then New Balance’s SuperComp Elite v4 is one you should consider as your next pair!
Sole Mates Overall Shoe Rating:
Comfort - 4/5
Stability - 4/5
Responsiveness - 4.5/5
Grippiness - 4/5
Value for Money - 4/5
All things considered, Melissa Foo gives the New Balance SuperComp Elite v4 an overall rating of 4.1 Soles, and it is a pair that she definitely thinks is value for money.
You can purchase the shoes at S$339, available online at newbalance.com or at any of New Balance’s retail outlets.