Back to Shoe Finder

New Balance SC Elite 6

The next generation of New Balance's carbon-plated marathon super shoe, continuing the PEBA FuelCell and Energy Arc plate combination at the legal 40mm limit. It builds on the well-received v5 with incremental weight and foam tuning rather than a reinvention. A race-day-only tool for runners chasing PRs from 10K to the marathon.

Quick specs
CushionMaximum
SupportNeutral
Drop4 mm
Heel stack40 mm
Toe boxStandard
Foot strikeMidfoot, Forefoot
Who it's for

Reach for the New Balance SC Elite 6 for race day and tempo days and intervals. It's a neutral shoe, best for runners with an efficient stride who don't need pronation support. The tall, soft stack favors comfort over ground feel — great for high mileage and bigger runners, less so for racing snappiness.

Race daySpeed work
Pros
  • Top-end race-day propulsion
  • Light, aggressive platform
  • Proven Energy Arc plate design
Cons
  • Premium super-shoe price
  • Too specialized for everyday training
Similar shoes to consider
ShoeCushionSupportPrice
Nike Alphafly 3
Nike
MaximumNeutral$285Analyze
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4
Adidas
MaximumNeutral$250Analyze
ASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo
ASICS
MaximumNeutral$275Analyze
ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris
ASICS
MaximumNeutral$250Analyze
Skill profile
Support42
Cushion90
Durability32
Popularity83
Price50
Versatility52
Lightness92

Ratings compare the current lineup. Price favors lower cost.

Key stats
$250Price (MSRP)
40 mmStack height
4 mmDrop
7.1 ozMen's weight
6.1 ozWomen's weight
2026Release year
Shop this shoe

Runner Toolkit may earn a commission when you buy through these links. It never affects the price you pay or which shoes we recommend.