New Balance FuelCell TC - First Run

I finally got a chance to run in the New Balance Fuel Cell TC, a carbon plated running shoe with a bunch New Balance's Fuel Cell foam. At 9.3oz and 8mm of heel drop, it isn't technically a racing shoe, but until the FuelCell RC comes out, it's the best that New Balance has to offer in the super shoe arms race.

I like the upper from the arch forward. The back of the shoe belies its not-necessarily-a-racing-shoe design intent. It's comfortable and structured back there. But I wish it weren't, as the shoe feels heavy and a bit off balance overall.

As far as the midsole goes, however, I love the implementation of the carbon fiber plate in combination with the ample FuelCell foam. You get a nice crumple zone underfoot to absorb the impact of road miles while the plate gets you back through the gait cycle quickly. It's a nice powerful feeling. The other downside however, in addition to the weight, is that it is a very tall shoe that felt a bit unstable in tight corners. I definitely wouldn't want this for a road 5k with switchbacks or turns, but I also think that stability won't be an issue for most half and full marathons.

Disclosure: this is a pair of shoes that I purchased with my own money. No one is reimbursing me for the purchase price or paying me to use this shoe. No one will get a chance to preview my footage or thoughts before the video goes up on youtube.

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Running footage shot on:
GoPro Hero 8 Black (paid link)
https://amzn.to/2J6iv3j

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