FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5

If you’re going New Balance then I suggest the SC Elite V5 because it’s their best most comfortable shoe IMHO. The EVO SL, Boston 13, and NB Rebel V5, pale in comparison. My new I’m only taking one shoe with me is the Norda 003 G+ because they give me the confidence to do anything and go almost anywhere in them.

We have similar PBs. I purchased my first carbon shoe recently, I went for the New Balance Supercomp elite v5 after trying on a few options. It’s less aggressive than the likes of the alphafly or adios pros 4, but infinitely more comfortable than them and still extremely capable of picking up the pace. I’ll be running Manchester marathon in them this year and am planning to pick up a second pair for the rest of this years racing.

Another vote for SC Elite v5. I am targeting 3:30 and originally planned to run in the Megablast, as with OP I was worried about how I’d find a carbon plate on my ankles having suffered with PTTD before. I got the SC Elite to race shorter distances, but found them so instantly comfortably and effectively I tested them on a 30k long run and I’ve no doubt they’re the shoe for me. I had previously tried on the Adios pro 4 and comfort wise there’s no comparison

I am aiming for 3:30 and running in the new balance supercomp v5 - they are my first race shoe and I am really surprised by how comfortable they are - I tried the Adios pro 4 and alphafly on but the alphafly felt too aggressive and I didn’t find the Adios pro 4 comfortable enough to wear for 3hrs+ I have done 2 x long runs with marathon pace efforts in the supercomp elite v5 with no issues. I know the geometry of the shoe isnt going to suit everyone hut ive found the plate and foam do more than enough for me while still remaining fun and comfortable

New Balance Supercomp Elite v5 I like you got the Megablast for my 3:20-3:30 marathon thinking comfort > plate. But I haven’t got on with them at all. I run very similar times to you (5k is 20:30 but the others are very close). I got the NB SC elite v5 on sale for £135 for some shorter distance races but tested them on a long run (30km) and they were so much more comfortable than the Megablast I’ve ordered a second pair and will definitely be racing the marathon in them.

I purchased my first carbon shoe this year and landed on the New balance Supercomp elite v5 after trying a couple of others - it’s not as aggressive as the alphafly etc and in my experience far more comfortable than the Adios pros or vaporfly. I’m 125lb(ish) midfoot striker and have used the shoe for marathon pace (4:55 per km) down to 5km pace (3:55 per km). I originally planned to race my marathon in a non-plated shoe, but the supercomp elite v5 is so comfortable it’s now going to be my go-to.

My experience is identical, awful blisters, disappointing firm ride, doesn’t make me excited like the NB SC v5 does. I’m around 130lbs so on the lighter side. Thinking about returning them (90 day asics gear trial) and getting the SB3 instead but will that fill the same gap?

I am also 5'9 a little heavier than you around 180. I enjoy the NB SC elite v5. I got it in wide and it supports my wide-ish feet well. Definitely feel the difference of the carbon compared to my daily runners. Ran my first marathon last year in it and finished with a 3:40, was really happy with the shoe. I know it's not the highest rated carbon shoe but if your looking for something to fit wider feet then I'd give it a try.

I really enjoy them as a heavy runner because they feel a little bit more stable than other plated shoes that I have tried (Alpha Fly 3s and Adidas Adios Pro 4s). They are very light and feel comfortable with the upper and toe box.

They all different and it’s more like a personal preference. Someone likes Nike AF, but I can’t even walk in these as one seam is rubbing my leg so bad. You really need to try a few to choose. I would order on Amazon 4-5 different shoes and return all except one. Even manufacturers are offering 60-90 days free returns from official website these days. My personal preference: 1) New Balance SC Elite v5 2) Adidas Adizero Pro 4