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contact.running.zap@gmail.comA data-driven comparison of the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 and Nike Vaporfly 4. See how they stack up on every metric.
These two shoes are remarkably close in overall performance — the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 scores 93/100 while the Nike Vaporfly 4 scores 95/100. The real difference isn't in the total score but in *where* each shoe excels. The Nike Vaporfly 4 counters with better value for money and durability. The Nike Vaporfly 4 is also lighter at 190g vs 213g.
Here's how the numbers stack up:
**New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5:** $250 | 213g | 40mm stack | 8mm drop | Neutral **Nike Vaporfly 4:** $260 | 190g | 36mm stack | 6mm drop | Neutral
The 23g weight difference is noticeable but not dramatic. The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 has more foam underfoot (40mm vs 36mm), which generally means more cushioning and energy return.
**Cushioning (84 vs 86):** Essentially tied. Both shoes provides a balanced mix of cushioning and ground feel.
**Stability (68 vs 68):** Essentially tied. Both shoes offers enough support for most neutral runners without feeling restrictive.
**Flexibility (92 vs 92):** Essentially tied. Both shoes balances flex with structure for a versatile ride.
**Durability (58 vs 62):** The Nike Vaporfly 4 leads here — it should last a typical training cycle of 400-500 miles. A 4-point gap that is meaningful but not dramatic.
**Breathability (84 vs 85):** Essentially tied. Both shoes manages airflow adequately for most climates.
**Traction (76 vs 78):** Essentially tied. Both shoes handles most road or trail surfaces without issues.
**Weight (94 vs 97):** The Nike Vaporfly 4 leads here — it sits at a comfortable weight for its category. A 3-point gap that is meaningful but not dramatic.
**Value for Money (56 vs 64):** The Nike Vaporfly 4 leads here — it is fairly priced for what it offers. A 8-point gap that you will feel in practice.
**Choose the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 if:** - Budget matters ($250 vs $260) - Your focus is racing
**Choose the Nike Vaporfly 4 if:** - Value for Money is a priority for you (64/100 vs 56/100) - Durability is a priority for you (62/100 vs 58/100) - You want the lighter option (190g) - Your focus is racing
The Nike Vaporfly 4 is the stronger shoe overall, but the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 isn't far behind.
Our scores are aggregated from expert review sources including Runner's World, Believe in the Run, Road Trail Run, Doctors of Running, and other trusted publications. We normalize scores to a 0-100 scale and weight them equally. Specs are sourced from manufacturer data. Prices reflect MSRP at time of writing.
