The New Balance Fuelcell Supercomp Trail Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trail is a trail running shoe designed for those seeking a lightweight option with reliable traction. In our lab tests, the midsole displayed a plush feel but recorded a lower energy return compared to high-performance competitors, making this shoe ideal for casual trail runners rather than elite athletes.

The combination of ultra-soft materials and a top-class Vibram outsole provides stability on various terrains. However, the previous-generation non-PEBA FuelCell foam contributes to a less responsive ride, producing a softer experience at the cost of some responsiveness.

This model's pricing makes it accessible compared to similar options in the market, presenting a viable choice for runners looking for speed and enjoyment on trails without the premium cost typically associated with supershoes.


Pros

  • Extremely lightweight
  • Plush FuelCell foam
  • High-performance Vibram Megagrip outsole
  • Breathable upper
  • Ideal for heel strikers
  • Priced below trail supershoes
  • Secure fit
  • Good durability

Cons

  • Lacks energy return
  • Narrow toebox limits toe splay
  • Not very stable
  • Steep drop punishes forefoot strikers

Key Features

  • FuelCell Technology: This shoe utilizes advanced FuelCell with bio EVA, which provides excellent energy return and cushioning.
  • Trail Running Specific: Tailored for trail running, ensuring it meets the unique demands of uneven terrains.
  • Breathable Mesh Outer: The outer material is made from mesh, promoting airflow to keep your feet cool during long runs.
  • Cotton Inner Lining: A comfortable cotton inner lining enhances overall comfort and fit during extended use.
  • Durable Sole Material: Constructed from Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA), providing flexibility and support for your feet.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)
  • Outer Material: Mesh
  • Inner Material: Cotton

New Balance Fuelcell Supercomp Trail Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trail ASICS Metafuji Trail Saucony Endorphin Edge Nike Ultrafly
Price $200 $250 $200 $260
Trail terrain Light Light Moderate Light
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 8.7 oz / 248g 9.1 oz / 258g 9.5 oz / 269g 10.5 oz / 299g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 13.0 mm 10.3 mm 7.1 mm 11.8 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Mid/forefoot Heel
Size Half size small True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Soft Soft Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Normal Small Small
Plate Carbon plate Carbon plate Carbon plate Carbon plate
Toebox durability Decent Very bad - Very bad
Heel padding durability Decent Good - Good
Outsole durability Good Decent - Good
Breathability Moderate Breathable Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Narrow Medium
Toebox width Medium Narrow - Wide
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Lug depth 2.9 mm 2.7 mm 3.4 mm 3.0 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 34.7 mm 44.7 mm 33.4 mm 36.6 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 21.7 mm 34.4 mm 26.3 mm 24.8 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Season All seasons Summer All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Top 18% Top 17% Top 45% Top 24%
Popularity Bottom 13% Bottom 18% Bottom 37% Bottom 44%