New Balance SC Trainer v3 — Plush Comfort & Propulsive Power
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Slipping on the New Balance SC Trainer v3 for the first time felt like stepping into a cloud — but one with serious propulsion. This shoe is built for long runs, recovery days, and any session where comfort is the top priority, and after taking it through various paces, I can say it lives up to the hype (with a few caveats).
The first thing that stands out is the cushioning. The SC Trainer v3 features a generous stack of FuelCell foam with approximately 3% bio-based content, delivering an ultra-soft, plush underfoot feel with a propulsive kick to help drive you forward. Bio-based content is made from renewable resources to help reduce our carbon footprint, which is a nice bonus for eco-conscious runners. Even on my longest runs, my legs felt fresher than expected, with the foam soaking up impact like a champ. It’s the kind of shoe that makes you want to tack on a few extra miles just because your feet are so happy.
Despite all that cushioning, the shoe still feels surprisingly responsive. The Energy Arc technology, with its sport-specific carbon fiber plate geometry and strategic midsole voids, adds noticeable pop to each step by increasing stored energy and delivering a higher amount of total energy returned. I wouldn’t call it as aggressive as a pure race shoe, but the plate delivers a smooth, rolling sensation that makes cruising through long miles almost effortless.
The fit is another highlight. The soft, plush mesh upper is breathable and stretchy enough to accommodate foot swelling on longer efforts. The heel counter locks your foot in place, so even with the high stack height, I never felt unstable or wobbly. And despite the shoe’s robust design, the angular midsole shape helps reduce weight, making the 271 grams (9.6 oz) feel lighter than expected.
Of course, no shoe is perfect, and the SC Trainer v3 has a few quirks. The weight is the most obvious downside — this shoe is heavier than your average trainer, and while the cushioning helps mask it, you do notice the heft on faster efforts or hill climbs. It’s not a deal-breaker, but if speed is your main goal, you might reach for something lighter.
Durability is another consideration. The outsole, designed for superior traction, grips well even in wet conditions, but after 100 miles, I started seeing some wear in the high-impact areas. Given the plush foam, this isn’t too surprising, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re hoping for a high-mileage workhorse.
Finally, the high stack height, while amazing for cushioning, may not be for everyone. If you’re used to more minimalist shoes, the towering profile can take some getting used to, and tight corners or technical terrain might feel a bit awkward at first.
Overall, the New Balance SC Trainer v3 is a dream for runners who want maximum comfort without completely sacrificing performance. It’s perfect for long runs, recovery days, and those easy miles where you just want to lose yourself in the rhythm of your stride. While it may not be the fastest shoe in your rotation, it excels at keeping you comfortable and energized for the long haul — and that’s a pretty powerful reason to lace up and hit the road.