New Balance SD100 v3 review

Who should buy the New Balance SD100 v3

The New Balance SD100 v3 is recommended for:

• Entry-level road trackies who are training for distances from 100 meters to 400 meters.
• Budget-conscious athletes and professionals who want a super lightweight, grippy, and versatile track and field shoe.

Profile of the New Balance SD100 v3

Use – Perfect for sprints, the SD100 v3 is an entry-level running spike from New Balance. It is suitable for those who have just started their track career all the way up to professionals. It yields optimal traction in distances ranging from 100 meters to 400 meters. 

Spike Type – There are six ¼-inch pyramid spike pins affixed to the spike receptacles of the sprint shoe. With such style, these spikes are intended for aggressive traction with light composition. 

Spike Plate – A common spike plate among track shoes, a Pebax plate is equipped to the outsole. This plate maximizes the propulsion of the sprinter. It maintains a good balance of rigidity and lightness. 

Updates to the New Balance SD100 v3 

• New Balance implemented some refinements from the predecessor of the New Balance SD100 v3 after garnering positive reception from the market.
• Featured a bootie construction for a comfortable wrap, integrating the tongue for an easy entry for the foot to the platform. 
• An internal shank is incorporated within the track spike for torsional rigidity.

Foot-conforming fit

The SD100 v3 is listed in the men’s sizing scale, using the standard width. It is recommended for women to deduct 1.5 from their usual size preference for a precise fit and size. 

For a foot-conforming fit, an open mesh upper is introduced. Security and lockdown are heightened with the aid of the ankle collar. Moreover, seamless overlays are welded to the upper to keep the foot secure.

Stiff polymer plate to keep the runner up on the toes

There is not much change in the outsole of the SD100 v3. It still employs a combination of both rubber and Pebax spike plate. 

The Pebax plate is situated at the forefoot. It is engineered using a stiff polymer plate. Its design is intended to keep the runner up on the toes. This position allows for a powerful performance. 

SD100 v3 provides a good grip on track surfaces

Because of the high-strength qualities of the sprint spike, its longevity is extended. These attributes protect it from the abrasive elements on the tracks. The plate also has a good grip on track surfaces, powering the speed of the athlete. 

To complement the traction produced by the plate, a rubber outsole extends from the heel to the plate. It is also textured for added grip. 

Promotes torsional rigidity 

An internal shank is located in the midsole of the New Balance SD100 v3. It is a thermoplastic unit tasked with promoting torsional rigidity.

For a breathable wrap around the foot, an open mesh is outfitted to the SD100 v3. It has a featherlight construction, adhering to the lightness of the track spike. It also gives an adaptive fit to the foot for security. The same upper material is present in the ASICS Hyper MD 7 and Saucony Ballista.

New Balance SD100 v3 delivers maximum comfort

A bootie construction is also implemented to the track running shoe. This design integrates the tongue for sock-free use and a convenient foot entry. An ankle collar is furnished to support the ankle and provide lockdown. 

For maximum comfort and security, no-sew overlays are embedded to the upper. This keeps the foot fixed in place.