At the moment, the market seems to feature a lot of competition shoes with very large midsoles. The sizeable midsoles provide a high level of comfort for running, but also lead to less stability and less of a feeling of being in contact with the ground.
New Balance has launched their latest answer to a genuine super shoe, which bears noticeable resemblance to the style of the competition shoes we saw earlier on - where design was more focused on ensuring that the shoe was lightweight and firm. This new model is called the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Pacer.
I have tested the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Pacer both at jogging pace and for faster interval training on the running track - below you can read about my experience of wearing this interesting model.
Facts About the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Pacer
- New Balance’s answer to a genuine a super shoe with a low stack height
- Drop: 8 mm
- Stack height: 25 mm under the heel, 17 mm under the forefoot
- Features full-length built-in carbon plate
- Weighs 196 grams (size US 9)
- A contemporary and modernised alternative to the good old, firm racing shoes, such as the RC1600 and RC1400
Sole of the FuelCell SuperComp Pacer – Surprisingly Comfortable
If we start by inspecting the underside of the shoe, we see the same structure as on many other super shoes; outsole has been added to specifically selected areas and the rest is pure midsole. There is a bit of outsole on the heel, otherwise the rest is placed under the forefoot. Just by looking at the outsole, it is clear to see that the shoe has been designed for fast running.
The midsole is built up in a "sandwich" construction, which features a full-length carbon plate in the middle that is encased in New Balance's FuelCell foam. To create extra forward propulsion and reduce the overall weight, the shoe has been built with "Energy Arc", where there is a groove under the heel and midfoot, since the midsole has been removed all the way up to the carbon plate.
New Balance Super Comp Pacer Energy Arc
The sole of the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Pacer gives a firm feeling when running. Nevertheless, the FuelCell material is pleasantly soft, so even though there is not as much midsole compared with many other super shoes on the market, there is still enough to ensure a comfortable landing - admittedly, this cannot be compared with super shoes that have 40 mm midsoles.
The Upper – Light, Ventilating and Comfortable
The upper is made of a soft and comfortable mesh, which is specked with air holes throughout the shoe, except for the heel cap. In practice, this provides a feeling of not wearing shoes at all - very comfortable!
In terms of shape, the shoe is quite average both in terms of width and length, and there is plenty of room for the toes.
At the heel cap, the mesh material has been reinforced with various details, and is thus more stable, even though the heel cap is generally still very soft and comfortable - very reminiscent of the style featured in the good old RC1400 and RC1600.
The tongue of the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Pacer is ultra-thin, and the laces are also relatively minimalistic. Here I have noticed that it requires a little extra attention when lacing up to make sure you get a good hold and a comfortable fit. But as with all good lacing, the shoe sits snugly and comfortably.
The Final Verdict
If you want a more minimalist feel when you run, then the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Pacer is a fantastic shoe! The upper is ventilating and stylish and it seems as though it "disappears" on the foot - New Balance has also made some good choices when it comes to the sole as well.
The outsole has been strategically placed under the heel and forefoot to provide good grip, and their Energy Arc provides a surprisingly comfortable landing, despite the significantly smaller midsole compared to many other super shoes on the market today.
All in all, the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Pacer is a unique shoe that I look forward to wearing for speed training. And, if you prefer this type of shoe for your 5 or 10 km competitions, then the shoe can also be highly recommended.
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