The New Steadiness FuelCell SuperComp MD-X v3 is an elite racing spike that brings stability and responsiveness to the forefront of middle-distance racing. Designed for velocity over distances from the 400m to the 5,000m, it makes you’re feeling such as you belong on the Diamond League circuit (even when your 1,500m PB is from highschool and would get you laughed out of the elite tent).
In contrast with many trendy racing spikes, the MD-X v3 has a beneficiant stack peak that delivers noticeably extra cushioning. I admire the additional safety throughout onerous observe periods, and whereas I haven’t but raced on this spike, I used it for a number of velocity exercises, giving me a good suggestion of how elite it truly is.
Specs:
Class: Carbon-plated mid-distance racing spike
Stack Top: 19.7mm
Weight: 174 g (males’s US 9)
Spike pins per shoe: six (detachable)
Value: $230
Obtainable: Now
Bounce on high of bounce
Observe spikes have developed dramatically, and anybody coming from older fashions shall be shocked by how a lot bounce the MD-X v3 gives. It feels nearer to an excellent coach than a standard spike, with plush FuelCell PEBA foam delivering a vigorous trip that helps you float by way of quick intervals. Paired with a full-length SuperComp plate, the froth delivers a propulsive toe-off that encourages you to maintain pushing the tempo, whether or not you’re grinding by way of a exercise or making your transfer after the bell.
Like many plated spikes, the MD-X v3 is stiff; whereas this may increasingly not enchantment in a highway shoe, on the observe the aggressive platform works in its favour. Regardless of the rigidity, the beneficiant cushioning softens the affect that always comes with onerous observe periods. When you favor extra underfoot safety for middle- and longer-distance observe work, this is likely one of the most snug spikes obtainable.
A steady spike?
Steady isn’t normally the primary phrase that involves thoughts when describing a racing spike, however it’s one of many MD-X v3’s standout qualities. Regardless of the comparatively excessive stack, I felt assured attacking corners, and my ankles stayed safe at the same time as I elevated my tempo for aggressive remaining intervals, with out feeling like I used to be preventing the shoe.
A wonderful heel lockdown additionally contributes to that efficiency confidence. I’ve notably slim heels and didn’t expertise any slipping or undesirable motion throughout reps. The general match is pretty impartial, sitting between slim and huge, making it appropriate for quite a lot of foot shapes. New Steadiness additionally widens the forefoot by way of the midsole and outsole, making a broader touchdown platform that provides stability with out making the shoe really feel cumbersome.
Higher
The engineered mesh higher is snug, light-weight and breathable, which is precisely what you need in an elite efficiency spike. It gives sufficient construction to maintain the foot safe with out including pointless bulk, whereas the heel stays comfortably locked down all through the exercise.
The very best praise I can give the higher is that I barely observed it. Whether or not I used to be contemporary or deep into a tough session, it merely did its job and let me focus on working.
A singular mannequin
At 174 g, the MD-X v3 is heavier than many competing racing spikes and, on paper, that will elevate some eyebrows, however the additional weight is just about unnoticeable.
As a substitute, what stands out is the mixture of cushioning, rebound and stability. Whereas many trendy spikes prioritize minimalism above all else, the MD-X v3 gives a extra forgiving trip with out sacrificing velocity. As somebody with delicate toes, I discovered the added cushioning and wider platform made it snug throughout a variety of exercises and distances. The carbon plate nonetheless delivers the stiff, snappy toe-off you’d anticipate from an elite spike, however the softer PEBA foam prevents the trip from feeling overly harsh.
Its versatility is probably its largest energy. New Steadiness markets the shoe for races from 400m to five,000m, and U.S. standout Quincy Wilson races in it over 400m. I’m actually not Wilson, however I used the MD-X v3 for ladder intervals and located it equally snug at numerous distances. It delivers a formidable stability of bounce, propulsion and stability, making it some of the versatile middle-distance spikes at present obtainable.
Verdict
The New Steadiness FuelCell SuperComp MD-X v3 stands aside from most elite racing spikes by refusing to sacrifice consolation within the pursuit of velocity. It delivers the snappy, propulsive trip aggressive middle-distance runners anticipate, whereas including sufficient cushioning and stability to make onerous exercises (and race day) rather less punishing. When you’re searching for the lightest, most minimalist spike available on the market, there are different choices, however if you would like an elite-level spike that conjures up confidence on each lap, the MD-X v3 is likely one of the most well-rounded decisions obtainable.
