# Training for 100 Miles: Why One Runner Chose the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite V5
Ultramarathon training demands shoes that withstand relentless pounding while delivering responsive cushioning across mounting miles. The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite V5 has become the go-to tool for one runner preparing for a 100-mile trail ultramarathon.
The FuelCell SuperComp Elite V5 combines several technologies designed for long-distance road running. New Balance engineered the shoe with FuelCell foam, which provides lightweight responsiveness without sacrificing cushioning. The SuperComp plate, a carbon-fiber component, offers propulsive energy return during repetitive footstrikes. This matters for ultramarathoners stacking training runs in preparation for grueling race distances.
Road shoes serve specific purposes in ultramarathon preparation, even for athletes ultimately racing on trails. Many ultrarunners incorporate road miles alongside trail running to build aerobic capacity, reduce injury risk, and allow for faster recovery runs between harder efforts. Road shoes typically offer more consistent cushioning and support compared to trail-specific footwear.
For 100-mile training blocks, shoe selection influences injury prevention and performance. Runners accumulate upward of 60 to 100 miles weekly during peak training phases. The FuelCell SuperComp Elite V5's geometry supports neutral strikers, though runners with different biomechanics should test shoes before committing to high-mileage blocks.
The shoe weighs approximately 8.4 ounces, keeping foot fatigue manageable across extended training sessions. Its stack height of 37.5 millimeters in the heel provides adequate shock absorption while maintaining ground feel.
Individual results vary based on running gait, foot strike patterns, and personal comfort preferences. What works exceptionally well for one