New Balance SC Elite v5
New Balance's top marathon racer pairs a full PEBA FuelCell midsole with the brand's Energy Arc carbon plate and a 40mm stack. The v5 softened the ride and improved the turnover compared with the v4, making it a legitimate contender for marathon and half-marathon race day. It rewards a smooth midfoot strike and rested, faster legs.
Reach for the New Balance SC Elite v5 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.
- Bouncy PEBA foam with carbon Energy Arc plate
- Light and smooth at race pace
- More forgiving than many super shoes
- Expensive
- Low 4mm drop and soft stack are less friendly to heavy heel strikers
Ratings compare the current lineup. Price favors lower cost.
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