New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Pacer v2

The upper of the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Pacer v2 is designed with an ultra-breathable mesh material, ensuring excellent airflow and comfort during runs. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners who engage in intense workouts or races, as it helps keep the feet cool and dry. The large ventilation holes in the upper contribute to its perfect breathability score, making it a standout feature for those prioritizing a well-ventilated shoe.

The midsole of the Pacer v2 features New Balance's FuelCell foam, known for its energy-returning properties. This foam provides a plush and bouncy feel, enhancing the shoe's responsiveness. The inclusion of the Energy ARC plate further boosts the midsole's performance by improving flexibility and energy return. This combination makes the Pacer v2 an excellent choice for runners seeking a propulsive and energetic ride.

The outsole of the Pacer v2 is designed with a performance-driven focus, featuring a large central void that exposes the plate and a decent amount of rubber coverage. This design choice balances durability and weight, making it suitable for road running and tempo training. The outsole's hardness is average, providing adequate grip and durability for road running.

The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Pacer v2 is noted to fit half a size small, with a snug toebox width that prioritizes control over comfort. The big toe area offers ample space for toe splay, making it ideal for runners who often feel cramped in competition-focused shoes. The overall fit is performance-driven, catering to those who prefer a more controlled and precise fit.

Comfort in the Pacer v2 is achieved through its plush FuelCell foam midsole, which provides a soft and bouncy feel. However, some users have reported potential discomfort in the heel area due to its design. Pairing the shoe with thick-and-cushioned socks is recommended to mitigate this issue. Despite this, the shoe's overall comfort is enhanced by its breathable upper and responsive midsole.

The cushioning in the Pacer v2 is provided by the FuelCell foam, which offers a plush and bouncy feel. The shoe's stack height is lower than many supershoes, providing a more grounded and feedback-rich running experience. This makes it suitable for runners who prefer a less cushioned ride while still enjoying the benefits of energy return.

Breathability is a standout feature of the Pacer v2, thanks to its ultra-breathable mesh upper. The large ventilation holes ensure excellent airflow, keeping the feet cool and dry during runs. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners who engage in intense workouts or races, as it helps maintain comfort and prevent overheating.

Stability in the Pacer v2 is limited, as the shoe lacks specific stability features. It is best suited for neutral runners who do not require additional support. The lower profile of the shoe contributes to a less intimidating ride, but potential buyers should be aware of its lack of stability features.

Durability in the Pacer v2 is a mixed bag. The toebox durability is below average, but the shoe's overall design is performance-focused. The outsole provides decent durability for a racer, with its rubber coverage offering adequate protection for road running. However, the heel area may require extra care due to its lower durability score.

The grip of the Pacer v2 is adequate for road running, with its outsole design providing sufficient traction. The rubber coverage ensures a stable ride, making it suitable for racing and tempo training on paved surfaces. While not the most aggressive grip, it meets the needs of runners seeking a performance-driven shoe.

Flexibility in the Pacer v2 is enhanced by the Energy ARC plate, which features multiple horizontal bends. This design choice improves the shoe's flexibility and energy return, making it suitable for quick turns and sharp movements. The shoe's overall flexibility contributes to its fast-and-precise design, ideal for racing and interval training.

The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Pacer v2 weighs 210 g for men and 181 g for women, making it a lightweight option for racing and tempo workouts.

While the Pacer v2 is designed for speed and responsiveness, it is best suited for short to medium-distance races such as 5K to half marathon. Runners seeking more cushioning for longer distances may consider other models.

Yes, the Pacer v2 features the Energy ARC plate, which is a carbon fiber plate designed to enhance flexibility and energy return during runs.

The Pacer v2 fits half a size small, with a snug toebox width that prioritizes control over comfort. It is recommended to try on the shoe or consider sizing up for a better fit.