RadDadBodTVVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
It's a significant improvement over the v4, offering a more elite experience, and could contend for a top-three spot in current super shoe rankings.
New Balance
FuelCell SC Elite v5
Race shoe · Neutral · 198 g · 8 mm drop · MSRP $250
BuildPlated
$139.99 at Joe's New Balance Outlet$25044% off today
Critic consensus
from 8 reviewsThe New Balance FuelCell SC Elite v5 provides a racier, more propulsive ride with a lighter build and exceptional long-distance comfort. While it lacks the explosive aggression of top-tier super shoes, its reliable traction and smooth feel make it well suited for marathoners prioritizing comfort and consistency.
Reviewers agree
Comfortable and forgiving feel ideal for long-distance efforts7/8
Less explosive and aggressive than premier race-day super shoes6/8
Redesigned heel collar fixes previous rubbing and irritation issues5/8
Outsole delivers dependable grip and impressive durability5/8
Reviewers disagree
Platform stability relative to its predecessor3 vs 2
Upper fit through the midfoot and toe box4 vs 2
What reviewers use it for
Race8 of 8
Tempo4 of 8
Long run4 of 8
Easy1 of 8
A shoe earns a tag as soon as one reviewer recommends it for that kind of run; the count shows how many agree. Mentions include synonyms, so “recovery”, “zone 2” and “conversational” all count toward Easy.
Critic reviews
8 reviews · 6 scores inferredDoctors of RunningVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
One of the most comfortable super shoes of the year, combining consistency, versatility for longer efforts, and surprising durability.
EDDBUDVideo · Mar 20, 2026
The shoe is well-built and offers a comfortable, smooth ride for longer distances and easier paces.
KofuziVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
New Balance has successfully delivered a shoe that truly feels like a SuperComp Elite rather than a Rebel Plus. It's a fantastic, versatile option.
KofuziVideo · Mar 13, 2026INFERRED
The SC Elite Version 5 is a significant upgrade, offering a lighter, faster, and more race-ready experience without sacrificing comfort or accessibility.
The Run TestersVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
The SC Elite v5 is New Balance's best racing shoe yet, offering a fast, lightweight, and aggressive ride.
Marathon HandbookVideo · Mar 20, 2026
It strikes a Goldilocks zone between comfort and speed, hailed as New Balance's best super shoe to date due to numerous small, effective improvements.
RaceWatch review
Fordy RunsVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
The V5, despite its improvements, blends into the crowd of other super shoes without a distinct secret sauce to justify its high price point.