The SuperComp Trainer is the training companion of the SuperComp Elite. It’s a more affordable, more durable version of the flagship New Balance long-distance racer. It’s designed to give you a similar feeling ride to the SuperComp Elite. Version 3 has been redesigned from the ground up. It features a new upper, midsole and outsole. This comparison will tell you which version you should buy between version 3 and version 2.
Verdict
The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3 is a great speed trainer and an excellent training version of the SuperComp Elite v4. It has a versatile ride but truly shines during uptempo long runs. Version 3 has a new PEBA blend midsole and a new outsole design which make it feel firmer and faster than previous versions.
The New Balance SuperComp Trainer v2 is an excellent, versatile maximalist trainer which delivers a plush, energetic ride. It’s capable of recovery, easy, long runs and uptempo workouts but it feels more comfortable at slower paces. Version 2 has a brand new upper and midsole which makes it more comfortable, and lighter but less cushioned.
Recommended for
Racing, speedwork
Speedwork, daily training
Cushioning type
Balanced
Balanced/plush
Cushioning amount
Highly cushioned
Highly cushioned
Stability
very stable
very stable
Sizing
true to size
true to size
Retail price
US$179.95
US$179.95
Both versions of the SC Trainer have FuelCell midsoles, which is New Balance’s premier speed midsole foam. V3 has a new PEBA and EVA blend of FuelCell while v2 has the older version which is EVA and TPU. Both midsole foams are injected with nitrogen for increased energy return.
V3’s FuelCell has a more lively ride which delivers more energy return. V2 has a softer ride which feels more squishy and has more long-distance comfort. V3 is noticeably firmer than v2 so it’s better for faster runs. V2 is more comfortable on longer runs due to its softer ride.
They both have carbon plates but the plate in v3 is stiffer and more prominent than in v2. This makes the ride of v3 feel faster and more snappy as it has a stiffer forefoot. V3 feels more comfortable during easy runs because the more flexible plate is easier on your calves.
V3 has a more versatile ride character. It has more top end speed than V2 so it performs better during intervals, tempo and threshold runs. It’s also better for racing in than v2.
Outsole traction and durability of v3 is better than v2. It has a flatter outsole with more rubber coverage so wear is distributed more evenly.
The ride of v3 is more stable than v2. It has a firmer ride with less lean bias than v2 and the flatter outsole design also leads to more planted landings.
Version 3’s upper feels thinner and more streamlined than version 2. It has ventilation holes on the top of the toe box and on the sides which makes it feel cooler. It has a thicker gusseted tongue which provides more comfort on the top of your feet. V3 has a snugger, race fit compared to v2. It’s more suited to runners with narrow feet.
Version 2 has a thicker upper which feels warmer and more durable. It has a thin, gusseted tongue to save some weight. V2 has a more spacious, accommodating fit which suits wide feet better. It also has a heel tab which flares away from your Achilles to prevent any irritation.
If you’re looking for a fast trainer which can also be used for racing, the SC Trainer v3 is the better buy. It has a more responsive midsole paired with a stiffer carbon plate for extra propulsion. It has the more stable ride, the more durable outsole and better traction. It also has a cooler upper with better ventilation.
If you’re looking for a long-distance trainer for slower runs, the SC Trainer v2 is the better buy. It has a softer ride which is more relaxed. It’s lighter and it has a more accommodating upper fit for when your feet expand during long runs. V2 also has a warmer upper which is more suited to cool climates.
