New Balance SC Trainer v3 introduction:
The SC Trainer is New Balance’s race day companion to their SC Elite. Built with super foam and carbon plated, it offers the feel and benefits of a racer but with more comfort and less aggression to make it more suitable for regular running. That said, for many it will also be a very good choice for a race day shoe in itself.
How does the new version compare to the old and other shoes on the market? Let’s find out!
New Balance SC Trainer v3 upper:
The Fantom Fit upper of the SC Trainer v3 is very comfortable indeed. I received these just after receiving the Pacer v2 for review. As you can see from the Pacer review, they slashed my achilles and left me with broken skin and a lot of discomfort. Happily, the much more traditionally cut upper of the SC Trainer gave me no such issues, The heel cup has a slight indentation where the achilles sits and has a lovely patch of padding right there. This padding extends around the ankle area and really does hold the foot well.
The tongue is gusseted and adds to the security of the lockdown. Furthermore, it is just the right thickness to resist any lace pressure but also remain breathable. This breathability is a real feature of the SC Trainer v3. The upper is excellent in the hotter summer months, although this may mean putting on some thinner socks now the mercury has dropped.
On the lateral side of the upper, a large New Balance N adds some structure. The lace section is fairly traditional and does a good job locking down the foot. Overall, the upper is a real star. I believe that it will work for pretty much everyone. Great job, New Balance.
New Balance SC Trainer v3 midsole:
When I received the Trainer v2 a long time ago, I hated it on my first run. I found it stiff, unforgiving and harsh. My pair now sits on the floor of my wardrobe with a hole worn in the midsole from the amount of use it received over time. Opinions can change over time which is why we test the shoes for a decent distance. The SC Trainer v3 saw history repeat itself. I couldn’t wait to take it off after my first run. I found the forefoot landing to be harsh and unpleasant. Here we go again.
100km later, I am happy to report that my opinions have vastly changed. It has become my go to shoe for days when I want something to give me a bit of go when the legs are lacking. The foam, which is not fully PEBA as in its bigger brother, has broken in and become softer in the forefoot. It has added some lovely bounce to the roll of the carbon plate inside. I have gone from finding it thin and harsh to very much enjoying the propulsion it offers.
From daily morning runs to longer Sunday efforts, it has delivered well. Midfoot strikers, I imagine, would find the SC Trainer particularly helpful with the midsole geometry and roll of the plate. Whilst the weight would probably stop me from using it as an all out workout or race shoe, it has the pop to go fast but also the comfort to go the distance.
New Balance SC Trainer v3 outsole:
After 100km, the SC Trainer v3 has not shown any signs of wear. The rubber is placed in two small pads on the heel. One on either side of the Energy Arc channel. The forefoot coverage is fairly substantial with a handful of thin cutouts to add flexibility and reduce weight.
I have used the SC Trainer in most weather conditions outside of snow and found it to grip very well. Whilst it may not have the PUMAGRIP bite, it hasn’t left me fearful on leafy corners or muddy crossings.
New Balance SC Trainer v3 conclusion:
The New Balance SC Trainer v3 has become a firm favourite of mine. I expect to run the midsole to death again after a shaky start. This is a shoe which will work for the majority of runners. It offers cushioning and response while retaining comfort.
There is, however, one sticking point. The price. If you are an American buyer, ignore this and buy the SC Trainer right now, it’s great. However, if you are in the UK or Europe, wait for a sale. At £230/€250 it is in a price bracket higher than all but the most expensive of super shoes. Whilst it may offer more durability in the long term, the initial outlay seems rather much. Please get the price conversion a little more realistic, New Balance.
