I have just bought this - my first foray into the carbon-plated shoe space. I bought it for marathon races. I've always wanted to try a super shoe for race days, but I have a wide forefoot and the usual Nike options therefore aren't suitable for me. This is the most comfortable shoe I have ever run in (I did an intervals workout this morning in them), which I did not expect - I thought comfort would be somewhat sacrificed for performance. I'm a mid-pack-at-best, middle-aged runner, and I'm excited about feeling (if not being, LOL) fast in these shoes. I definitely echo your 'buy' verdict!
@@qibcentricsplayground2043 I find the upper really soft, stretchy and accommodating, so they don't put as much pressure on the wide part of my forefoot as most other trainers. I find the shape of New Balance shoes generally better for wider feet - compared to Asics, for example, which just don't work for me. I hope they work for you too!
I totally agree with your review! I absolutely love this shoe. I had bought into the Nike 4% since the beginning but the fit and feel was always a little off to me. After I ran for over a year in the Fuel Cell TC and really liked it (also they lasted forever), I took the plunge with the RCv2. It’s way better than I thought it would be. Very stable and FUN to run in. I am definitely recommending this shoe to others.
PS to my comment a minute ago: I go up 1/2 size in both the Rebel2 and RCE2, and in most NB shoes in general. I learned that it’s worth looking at European sizing in the international size charts for all brands, which makes it easy to understand why you may find you have to size down in some brands (I do in Hoka and adidas) and up in others. The Euro sizing is more precise.
My favorite shoe of all time!!! I remember the first time I ran in Saucony Triumph 4, it was a game changer… this shoe surpasses that feeling for me… I cannot wait to put this shoe on and run! Easily shaved 30 seconds per mile of my runs without any perceived change in effort. (8:30 to 7:45-ish). Did my first 7 minute mile in some time. Did overstride a little resulting in some hip pain… only negative comment
I splurged on version 1 last year...the NYC marathon edition because I thought it looked pretty sweet. And even as a back of the pack runner, it's a lot of fun to run in and works fine at slower paces. It's a strong contender for my marathon racing shoe this fall.
Hello GR I bought mine via gone.running the first week it was out at considerable less than $225. Ive broken every PR I’ve had in this shoe - it will also be on my foot (if) I can get to the start line in Boston. You are so right when you say the shoe has a forget feel after a number of miles - yet the autoclaved foam and aggressive plate position make such a good combination. It’s also stable, comfortable and a pleasure to have on foot. Great review. Finally someone has told the story of this shoe after putting the right amount of mileage in it to give a balanced review - thank you!
I've got 200mi on my pair, and while I would normally invest in a new pair of peak race shoes at that level I think I'm going to use these again for my next peak race they've held up so well.
Friendlier and more natural are both applicable to the RCE2 when compared to the stiffer, more CP-driven competitors. I’m only 101 lbs and 5’3” and the Next% didn’t work for me (developed an ache in the metarsals of one foot). This is the only CP shoe that feels like it allows me to run with anything close to my natural gait. I think it has some flexibility despite the high stack-no road feel element, so it seems to work for me like the Endorphin Speed in that I can still bend my foot a little while running.
Has anyone experienced problems with the insole slipping backwards on longer runs, causing a bit of discomfort where the gap appears at the tips of your toes? Think that this was reported by at least one online reviewer and I experienced it for the first time on yesterday's long run.
@@MarkSmith_Best-Athletics yes, had that too. The cheap flimsy insoles are about the only drawback that shoe has for me… but i thin it‘s easily fixable with some tape or a drop of glue…
I am not surprised that you lean towards a BUY. New balance had one of the first carbon plated shoes ever out in the market the RC1600 well over 10 years ago in a 150g package. It was pleasing a wide range of runners and triathletes a lot. Even Mirinda Carefrae broke the Marathon course record in Kona in the shoes. That is just to say, that while other brands shoes might not be a great option for everybody, these New Balance shoes can be worn on a wide variety of feet. They feel good despite wide forefoot or a total narrow feminin feet. I tried my a 5K -10k racing size and a size up too for long runs and marathon training. Both feels great. In addition the carbon plate is not feeling so ultra stiff that it rips off the shoe from your heels when forefoot running. I found that to be the case in the Nike and Saucony carbon shoes for my stride. Even after long break in time I just cannot seem to run in them. I feel like a clown when running in those. I still need to try Skechers, Brooks, Puma and other carbon shoes to have a complete overview on these propelled racers, but after 3 models of nike, 1 model of Saucony, The New Balance feels the most shoe like. I recommend it too ! (The TNF Flight Vectiv is a great carbon shoe, but not for the road ! )
To me, Fuelcell works best when it's in a non-plated shoe, such as the Rebel v2, which I really like. I've ran in both the RC v1 and v2 and I've found that Fuelcell is just too soft to provide much of a response from the embedded plate. Other foams, such as ZoomX and Lightstrike Pro do a MUCH better job at providing the level of responsiveness and pop that I want from a plated shoe. Now granted, the RC v2 is a significant improvement over the RC v1, I just don't think I'll try another plated NB shoe unless they tweak their Fuelcell to be a bit firmer.
I agree. As much as I like the RCv2 over the v1, it is not as good as the Rebel v2. It is hard to justify the price when the Rebel v2 sells at an almost $100.00 less.
I have both the Rebel2 and RCE2, & as much I love the Rebel2, it’s not close to supportive enough for a marathon. The plate in the RCE2 is subtle compared to most other “super shoes”, but the Next%, eg, hurt my foot (it doesn’t work for everyone). I need something that works more naturally with my gait so I’m hoping this will work out for my October marathon. Martha
I bought these (first carbon plate shoe) and ran 2 marathons and half marathon in them, including long training runs. I love it! I got a marathon PR and BQ and PR in half marathon wearing these. I am pleased how well the shoe holds up. Price tag is steep, but since you can put more miles in them; it's worth it
I have the RC Elite V1. Really like it but only got it when it went down in price. I’ve tried 3 different plated shoes (2 Nike)and this one by far felt the best. Did a 22 miles at race pace and felt great the entire way. Excited to take it into my marathon in 2 weeks! I’ll absolutely consider getting the the RC Elite 2 when it comes time to replace mine.
This is the best review on this you ever! Can I ask how it held up after a year and now if you would still recommend??? Thank you for making the point that these higher expensive shoes are for small percentage athletes and not the normal runner! That being said I just recently tried on every shoe out and nothing compares to this shoe in comfort! The metaspeed sky for instance is very comfortable but the upper is horrible and no way overall is the cushioning better than this shoe. I understand the marathon runners what is different shoe but for the normal every day person or heavier runner it doesn’t get any better than this one! For reference I use the rebel V2 for nearly everything lol and this is like that except on crack! I tried on the new supercomp trainer and the cushioning is definitely there but still not as comfortable as the Rc elite V2! I do think the price is high but if you’re picky and looking for the most comfortable shoe it’s definitely worth checking out! And you really can use these for anything!!
I got this shoe as soon as I could. Most of my miles are in the 1080. Recently used the RC Elite v2 in a local 10k and got a course PR at 44 min and change. I'm happy with it for sure. I don't feel like I'm not fast enough for this shoe if that makes sense.
@4lairr I also do most of my miles in the 1080. How would you say the 2 compare against each other in terms of feel? I'm looking for a shoe suitable for a 24hour track race and was wondering if the plate benefits at lower speeds as well ie 8:30 mile pace. Thanks
@@ryantipping The rc v2 is softer than the 1080 for sure. But I also feel it doesn't have the same support especially towards the inside back of the shoe. I'm fairly neutral but do feel I pronate in this shoe when I get slower, lazy, tired whatever. If you need very little support it is soft enough that it could work for you.
Love the Rebel 2, picking it up all the time but RC Elite 2 it just awesome running shoe, bit like the Rebel on steroids. Have both in my rotation now and training for HM and Marathon this year. The fuelcell with carbon plate gives the stability and the extra snap, it just works really really well and it is and like the ginger man said, it is a really easy shoe. Couldn't be happier :)
Best comment ever brother!! I just recently got back into running and can’t find anything close to the rebel V2! Until today I just literally bought this exact pair of RC elites! Like you said they are like the rebel V2 on crack! Feels like double the cushioning so it’s worth the price lol! Plus it’s the only issue I’ve ever tried on with the carbon plate that actually feels good! Like he said in the video most of these expensive marathon shoes are aimed towards the pro athletes! That’s why this shor is the game changer! Can I ask how yours have been holding up over time and would you still recommend??? I see they’re about to come out with an SC trainer V3 Which looks like a hybrid of the supercomp and the RC elite V2!
@@GSUnit21 RC Elite V2 200+ KM and it is still keeping very good shape and energy return! In fact I am to run a HM next weekend in this very shoes again. Need to say more? By the way I am dating the supercomp for the slower miles.
@@jamesb.walker9177 Awesome brother the only thing I don’t like about the supercomp is the upper and how it has that thin padding around the ankle area they always irritates my ankles! That rebel V3 is going to be where it’s at! I’m already looking for a second pair of the RC V2’s! I actually got to try on the metaspeed sky and edge today and they felt pretty good but I didn’t like the uppers and no way were they more comfortable than the RC! Especially for that 250 price tag! I’m not a pro runner but I could see why someone would want to use that shoe for faster miles
@@GSUnit21 I have heard the Endorphin Pro 3 is quite similar to the Elite V2, although haven't tried it yet. What I mostly happy on the Elite V2 is a shoe that we "normal humans" can run on a slower pace and take advantage of the carbon plate without to have to fight against it.
@@jamesb.walker9177 Absolutely brother my search is over I tried every other shoe with a carbon plate and it’s not like I’m racing lol I just want something comfortable with that spring back! Someone just put a review on the new SC v3 And they are comparing it to the supercomp and the RC V2! Go check it out on RU-vid it’s an awesome video look for the new read new York city edition
I was able to get my hands on a pair of V1 earlier this year and ran both a 5:56 PR in my Spring Half Marathon, and a 2 minute PR in my Summer 10K. Really enjoy that shoe and will hopefully be getting a pair of these for my Fall Marathon.
Running in those shoes 2 weeks ago had a PR on a half marathon, which I did to test the shoes for an upcoming marathon. I did buy more supportive new balance insoles so the slipping insoles were not an issue. Love the shoe, also using the Rebel v2 and Fresh Foam more v3 for training.
What kind of insoles did you buy? I’m a neutral runner and don’t want orthotics but if it’s something simple and improved the shoe, I’d love to know! Martha
@@levandmarthapolyakin-aaron2183 Running Ultra Cushion CFX Insole and the are really nice, I only bought one pair and I am switching them between shoes.
really nice review, thank you. I agree with your conclusions, about the look, the white/red looks much better, but not sure for which reason it cost 10$ more
Like someone else below i probate and am always scared to buy “regular” running shoes….how does cushioning and carbon plates play out for mild pronates….. how i long to be normal. Current,y running in hoka arahi5 with no issues
The Next%-and Nike in general-doesn’t work for everyone. They hurt my foot on my first LR in them so had to return them. And I have a medium/narrow foot and fit wasn’t the issue. Plus I got the RCE2 with a 10% discount from my local running store, which brought them down to $190.
The midsole in the Rebel v2 left me feeling confused... but I think in this shoe with the carbon plate, it might make sense. The plate will add a tad of stability (not a stability shoe!) and forward propulsion. It's interesting that NB didn't use their engineered synthetic mesh upper, as that seems like a very lightweight and durable material. Great review as always though!
I haven’t had any issues with the light upper in the Rebel2 but apparently a lot of runners have had issues with the material tearing, so that is probably one reason the upper is different in the RCE2. I have both shoes, and the RCE2 has actual holes in it, which may make it more breathable than the Rebel2. And yes, the plate stabilizes the foam. Despite the higher stack, these have a slightly wider platform and are surprisingly stable for having such a soft foam.
@thegingerrunner great review as always. if you don't mind me asking, what do you weigh? Just trying to keep it relevant as i'm 95kg so would be interesting to see how the shoes run for someone of a similar weight. Just bought a pair of these for London marathon :)
I have a general running question. Should a new runner take supination and pronation into consideration when buying a new running shoe? If so, would this be okay with someone who supinates?
Lone Peaks are never available in my size anywhere. I heard they have good ground feel but I don't even like that myself. Olympus 4's are too expensive tho. I like shoes with a little bit more protection in front because I tend to kick stuff while tromping around. I guess I'm asking too much trying to find trailrunners that would also be good for trail hiking and ok when bushcrafting.
I'm loving this shoe so far and it is definitely a contender for my fall marathon. I'm torn between this and the Saucony Pro but I do think that this might end up being more comfortable over the long haul since I'm a slower marathoner and will be out there for a while. I also LOVE the Rebel V2 but have to be careful as it is a bit unstable and only works for shorter runs for me. Overall a big fan of NB and their foams. I'm also really enjoying the new More V3 for easy days and the 1080 has been a staple everyday trainer for me over the last few years. If anyone has tested this on a run 3+ hours, I'd be curious how it felt over those last few miles. ????? The longest I have done in it is 14 and I want to save the miles in case I do choose to race in it.
I’ve gone to 16 mi (around 3 hrs) in the RCE2 and it was very comfortable on my feet-no foot discomfort. My other candidate for my Oct. marathon is the Endorphin Speed but I think the NB will be more protective and it’s roomier in the toebox which is nice for long distance.
Bought the TC when it came out. I nice shoe but I can only use it for 10K races because the heel is so unstable. Does this shoe still have this problem? It looks like they have raised the midsole a bit to provide some extra stability.
If only it WAS all Molly Siedel bronze medals!!!!! Serious question though. V1 was unstable for me do to the lateral flare and the soft foam. Wondering if there is any comparison between V1 and V2 you can make. I normally have no issues with stability and am loving the FC Rebel V2 right now.
Both RC v1 and v2 have unfortunately started getting my peroneal tendons around my ankles inflamed because of how mushy the foam is, with my ankles working overtime to stabilize on the tall platform. I'm working hard to strengthen my ankles to run better in them, but I normally have no issue with stability either (I do fine in the Vaporfly). I don't think the RC v2 is an improvement stability wise, if anything it's a little worse with the significantly increased stack.
I have a different experience to share. I tried on but didn’t keep the RCE1 because that lateral flare caused a pronounced pronation I don’t naturally have. They wisely eliminate that in v2 as they did in the Rebel2 (which I also have). I’m a neutral runner with normal pronation and I’ve taken these so far to 16 mi in my marathon training cycle to date without any foot pain at all. The foam is indeed very soft, but the plate makes them more stable in way than the Rebel2, as does the wider landing platform. I had planned to do my Oct marathon in the Next% which I bought last yr, but when I finally tested them on a LR I developed an ache in one foot that made me afraid to continue so I returned them. If you love the Rebel2 you will probably not have problems with the RCE2. Martha
Would have been a 6mm drop like other NB shoes, I could probably buy it. I have the Rebel V2 which I am really found of and at the other side the Fresh Foam More V3 for my long and easy runs.
The upper material is quite supportive/sturdy, and unlike the Vaporfly’s, the midsole platform is wider than the upper so no part of your foot is overhanging the soles.
