New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v2 Reviews

The upper and heel structure give it a clearer identity as an elevated trainer. Fits the bill for heavy mileage and long runs over 90 minutes, especially mid-run pickups and tired-leg days.

One tester grades it B to A as a recovery-friendly cushioned trainer, building on a v1 he relied on for ~200 miles. The second tester's grades are all B-.

Deep cushion for high mileage, pleasant plate stability, a relaxed upper for long runs, and likely the friendliest plated shoe at very slow paces. Toe-off feels laboured at easy effort due to the soft heel and lower drop.

After 256 miles including a marathon, an injured runner seeking forefoot cushioning says the SC Trainer v2 still feels fine.

A heavier new runner with shin splints says the SC Trainer v2 turned out better than every other shoe they own.

They like the SC Trainer v2 for pushing them beyond their comfort pace and keeping their legs fresh thanks to its cushy ride.

An easy recovery run finished with strides, plus a marathon-effort workout of 2 x 5K after a warm-up. They found a comfortable, controlled ride with cushioning from heel to forefoot and a bit of pop in the strides, and say it shines at marathon effort. The upper fit true to size (their usual 9) and was padded in the right places, though at about 10 oz the shoe is on the heavier side and $180 is a lot of money. They see it as a versatile daily trainer.