New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 Review: More Foam, Less Fast?
With its sleek, lightweight design and soft-yet-springy cushioning, the Rebel v5 is a versatile option for runners seeking one shoe that can do it all.
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5
Features
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 delivers lightweight speed, energetic cushioning and a race-inspired design for runners who want every mile to feel fast.
The Rebel v5 doesn’t just look fast. It feels fast. This dynamic trainer features a blend of PEBA and EVA foams that creates a responsive, propulsive underfoot experience that's perfect for when you want to pick up the pace. Incredibly lightweight, the Rebel v5 transitions effortlessly from long, steady runs to spontaneous speed sessions, giving you the versatility to follow wherever your run takes you.
Details:
- Upper: The engineered mesh upper provides lightweight support and excellent breathability, while FantomFit technology offers ultra-light bonded support without added weight. Plus, a redesigned heel and tongue enhance comfort during fast-paced efforts.
- Midsole: FuelCell technology combines PEBA and EVA foams to deliver a propulsive feel that drives you forward with every step. This version features even more foam underfoot than its predecessor, creating a responsive and energetic ride that's built for speed.
- Outsole: A redesigned outsole places more rubber at the forefoot for improved durability and traction where you need it most during toe-offs and quick transitions.
Tech Specs
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5
| Weight |
6.3 oz (W), 7.5 oz (M)
|
|---|---|
| Stack height (heel/forefoot) |
35 mm/29 mm
|
| Heel-to-toe drop |
6 mm
|
| Experience |
Springy
|
| Ride | 4/5 on the Firm to Plush Scale |
| Cushioning | 3/5 on the Minimum to Maximum Scale |
| Energy | 4/5 on the Relaxed to Propulsive Scale |
| Category | neutral |
What's New
New Balance upgraded the Rebel v5 with even more foam underfoot while maintaining the lightweight feel that makes this shoe special. The redesigned outsole adds strategic rubber placement at the forefoot for better durability, while updates to the heel and tongue improve comfort during faster efforts. The result is a shoe that feels faster and more responsive while staying true to the Rebel's lightweight, energetic character.
Who It's Best For
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 is perfect for runners who want a lightweight trainer that can handle everything from daily miles to speed work. Whether you're looking to add some energy to your regular training runs or need a shoe that can seamlessly transition from steady efforts to final kicks towards the finish line, this versatile trainer delivers the responsive feel that makes running feel effortless and fun.
Why You'll Love It
Your training runs just got a major upgrade with the Rebel v5. You'll love how this shoe makes every step feel energetic and propulsive, turning ordinary miles into something that feels fast and exciting.
Star Rating is 5 / 5
Great Speed Shoe
Amazing shoe for speed workouts without being carbon-plated. Felt very responsive and springy.
Star Rating is 5 / 5
Fun and fast!
Nice balance between responsiveness and comfort, allowing for faster paces and speedwork even on longer runs.
Star Rating is 5 / 5
New Balance Rebel v5
Love the comfort and fit of the shoe and how it performs. A true comp to ASICS Nova Blasts I also have. It’s like running on clouds. Highly recommend for distance running
Star Rating is 5 / 5
Great All Rounder!
I use this show in rotation with adizero evo sl’s. It’s light, plenty of cushion, and super responsive. It’s honestly an amazing shoe! I personally like the fit better than the version 4.
Star Rating is 5 / 5
Great daily trainer
Found this shoe very versatile. Have done long runs of 16 miles, but also found it easy for this shoe to drop the tempo for those speed workout days. Fit is secure in the heel while roomy in the toe box.
Star Rating is 5 / 5
Tempo shoes
The Rebel v5 is very lightweight and comfortable, making it great for easy runs, daily training, and tempo efforts.
Star Rating is 5 / 5
Great Holiday Treat for my Feet
I love how love how lightweight these are and comfortable for all different paces. The color really pops too. Not a a dull or boring looking everyday shoe.
Star Rating is 5 / 5
Great fitting shoe
Love how they fell on my feet… it’s like walking on a cloud!!
Star Rating is 5 / 5
An upgrade on v4
More springy with the larger midsole but a very familiar feel to the v4, it’ll be interesting how they last, I felt the v4 went flat pretty quickly. The comfort and wide toe box is great!
