New Balance SuperComp Elite v6 Racing Shoe Review
The latest version of New Balance's elite racing shoe features updated Infinion foam and a lighter build, maintaining the series' reputation for a natural
New Balance has released the SuperComp Elite v6, a road racing shoe priced at $340. According to a review from Running Magazine, the shoe offers an 8mm drop, a 40mm heel and 32mm forefoot stack height, and weighs 190 grams in a men's size 9.5.
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Category | Road racing |
| Drop | 8 mm |
| Stack Height | 40 mm (heel) / 32 mm (forefoot) |
| Weight | 190 g (M9.5), 155 g (W7.5) |
| Price | $340 |
| Availability | Now |
Upper and Fit
The upper construction continues the comfortable design of previous models, though the material feels slightly more plastic-like this year. A soft, padded heel counter and collar prevent any plastic sensation against the skin. The thin tongue is secured by lace loops to keep it in place.
The reviewer notes the fit runs slightly short. They recommend sticking with your usual New Balance racing shoe size, but suggest those switching from another brand consider going up a half size for a better fit.
Midsole Foam and Plate
New Balance introduces its Infinion foam franchise to the Elite series, a TPEE blend designed for longevity and bounce. The foam in this racing shoe is tuned to be lighter and softer than the Infinion used in training models like the 1080 v15. It works in concert with a carbon plate called Energy Arc.
This plate is cambered for increased stiffness and lateral stability. The reviewer found the plate responsive but not overly aggressive compared to other super shoes. The ride feels consistent with the v5 but offers more bounce in the forefoot. The wide forefoot platform provides good stability despite a narrower midfoot.
After approximately 90 kilometers of testing, the midsole foam retained its bounce and new-shoe feel. The reviewer speculates the midsole could outlast the outsole rubber and remain effective for up to 400 kilometers.
Outsole and Weight Comparison
The outsole represents a slight change from the previous version. The v5 featured mini-lugs for exceptional grip, while the v6 uses a different rubber compound that the review calls "a bit worse at gripping the ground." This change contributes to a noticeable weight reduction.
A back-to-back comparison with the v5 revealed about a 12-gram difference in the reviewer's size. The grip was still deemed sufficient for racing, even in wet conditions. "I've run intervals in this shoe while the August rain poured down in Toronto, and I didn't worry about grip at all," the review states. However, it suggests the v6 might not be the best choice for those seeking an raise speed-training shoe where maximum grip is most important.
Overall Impressions
Running Magazine concludes that the SuperComp Elite v6 upholds the series' legacy as a reliable and comfortable super shoe. The ride is described as natural, exciting, and fast. The key trade-off is a minor reduction in outsole grip for a lighter overall package. The shoe's durability, stemming from its TPEE foam, is highlighted as a major advantage for racers seeking a long-lasting performance shoe.
