New Balance RC Elite v2

Previously, our super shoe study data and my personal testing data showed the New Balance RC Elite v1 did not offer the same magnitude of benefits to running economy as the Nike Alphafly. For this comparison I looked at the newer version of the shoe, the New Balance RC Elite v2.

Testing Methods

For this case study comparison I looked at both versions of the New Balance RC Elite, along with the Nike Alphafly and my typical control shoe (Asics Hyper Speed) for two reps each at 6:15/mile pace. Check out this link to see what running economy is, how it is measured, and how it impacts performance.

Results

My running economy was slightly better in the New Balance RC Elite v2 than the v1, but it was still substantially behind the benefits conferred by the Nike Alphafly.

Here are the running mechanics data.

Take Home Message

Lots of folks have spoken highly of the RC Elite v2 compared to the v1. I can see why they like the new version. It is a more plush and stable ride than the v1. From the economy data, it looks like v2 does offer some slight benefits for me relative to the v1, although they are small differences. In the end, the Fuel Cell foam in the RC Elites still falls short of Zoom X for me. It is quite soft and compliant, but doesn’t feel like it has the energy return that Zoom X offers. This is apparent in the large differences in economy benefits between the Alphafly and the RC Elites in my personal data here.

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