The New Balance SuperComp Elite v6 arrives as the lightest entry in the series. It boasts a stiffer plate and new Infinion foam aimed at improving propulsion. While the shoe is faster, it may not be the quickest option compared to other super shoes. It is categorized as marathon-ready, though some runners might prefer it for shorter distances because of the firmness.
New Balance tends to overhaul its super shoes with every release. This approach usually raises concerns about consistency, but the results have been generally positive. The latest iteration is the sleekest model to date. When placed next to competitors like the Asics Metaspeed or the upcoming Brooks Hyperion Elite 6, the v6 appears traditional. It resembles the FuelCell RC Elite v2 more than its immediate predecessor.
A Fit Refined by Elites
The design team took input from sponsored elites for this version. They specifically asked pro marathoner Emily Sisson what she would change about the v5. She suggested a different last and a better fit. The result is a shoe that feels secure without being constrictive. The non-gusseted tongue is a key feature here. It allows runners with high insteps to loosen the laces to fit their foot shape without feeling pressure on the top of the foot. The team also focused on lowering the weight to reduce the effort required to run.
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The midsole technology has shifted significantly. The v5 used PEBA-based FuelCell foam. The v6 drops the FuelCell branding and switches to Infinion foam. This TPEE-based material was first introduced in the 1080v15, a daily trainer. For the SuperComp Elite version, the foam is tweaked to be lighter and more propulsive. The Energy Arc carbon plate is also updated. It is thicker and stiffer in the forefoot to help push the runner forward. A side cutout reveals the plate, a design choice that saves weight and adds a distinctive visual element.
If New Balance continues to refine the foam density without adding weight, future iterations could bridge the gap between comfort and pure speed that this model nearly closes. The current focus on athlete feedback suggests the brand is moving away from experimental designs toward consistent performance. This shift might eventually make it a top contender against the dominant models in the market.
Testing on the Track and Road
Testers familiar with previous models were impressed by the lighter weight and construction. One tester noted that past versions had fit and weight issues that made them suitable for training but not ideal for race day. The v6 seems to solve those problems. During testing, the shoe was taken on casual four-mile runs and a specific speed workout. The workout consisted of 2 x 2 miles at a 6:45 pace. The first two miles were run on the road due to a late track opening. This tested traction and stability on uneven sidewalks and around potholes. The shoe provided enough grip to handle the terrain safely.
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The ride feels easy, with a rocker that guides the foot through the stride. However, feedback on the cushioning varied by running style. Midfoot strikers wanted more cushioning in the forefoot. They felt the shoe was not as responsive as other racing models. Shoe tester Mike Browne shared this sentiment.
“I really liked them but they felt a little firm for the longer distances,” Browne said. “Still not a bad option but it didn’t feel like it gave me the return I was looking for in 10- to 12-plus-mile runs.”
Comfort Versus Speed
The experience differs for heel strikers. Jeff Dengate found the v6 felt softer and praised the comfort. He stated that New Balance makes some of the comfiest super shoes available. However, he acknowledged that the softness might make it less optimal for peak speed on race day.
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“New Balance has always had one of the comfiest super shoes,” Dengate said. “That squish has led me to believe it’s not the fastest option for me on race day.”
Despite this, the performance was solid. The test runs hit splits of 6:37 and 6:45, which aligns with marathon pace goals. The SuperComp Elite v6 is a strong candidate for race day, especially for shorter distances. Heel strikers will likely appreciate the cushioning and support. Those who prefer a softer ride might use it for speed workouts rather than a full marathon. A carbon-plated shoe does not have to be exclusively for 26.2 miles. Depending on the distance and personal preference for firmness, this could be the right race shoe for many runners.
