The New Balance FuelCell Rebel has always been the fun, rebellious kid in the world of running shoes; lightweight, fast, and different. After the v4 made a huge splash, the Rebel v5 is back to correct its course and address its flaws, offering a more mature and balanced experience. So, has it managed to retain its fun-loving spirit while adding more versatility? Let’s find out.
First Impressions: A Noticeable Maturity
From the moment you pick up the shoe, you notice the improvements. Gone are the short tongue and irritating heel of the v4, replaced by a more integrated and comfortable design. The upper feels more premium, and the midsole clearly suggests more cushioning. With a 5mm increase in stack height, the Rebel v5 has clearly shifted from being just a speed day shoe to an outstandingly versatile daily trainer.
The Upper: A Complete Overhaul
This is where the biggest improvement in the Rebel v5 lies. New Balance has utilized its FantomFit technology to provide a lightweight yet supportive structure. The fit is more precise, offering a secure lockdown around the midfoot while maintaining a comfortable toebox. The tongue is now lightly padded and gusseted, and the heel area has been radically improved to provide more comfort and support, completely solving the rubbing issue some experienced with the previous version.
The Sole Unit: Softer and Less Aggressive
The shoe retains its signature FuelCell foam (a PEBA/EVA blend), but with the 5mm increase in stack height, the overall feel is softer and more shock-absorbent. This change makes the shoe ideal for daily runs and long distances. Fans of the grounded feel of the v4 might miss that firmness, but the v5 offers a more protective and forgiving experience. Despite its softness, the shoe still has enough response and energy to feel lively when you pick up the pace, making it a fun companion for tempo workouts.
Pros 👍
- Incredibly lightweight.
- Soft and responsive FuelCell cushioning.
- Fixes all upper issues from the previous version.
- Fantastically versatile (daily and uptempo).
- Good stability from its wide base.
Cons 👎
- Outsole durability may be a concern due to exposed foam.
- Less agile than v4 for fans of ground-feel.
- May not be the best option for those needing extra support.
Final Verdict
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 is a successful evolution by every measure. New Balance took everything that was great about the v4—its lightness and fun—and fixed everything that was annoying. The result is a lightweight, enjoyable daily trainer that can easily handle various speeds and distances.
If you’re looking for a “do-it-all” shoe that feels comfortable on easy days and gives you a boost of energy when you decide to pick up the pace, the Rebel v5 is one of the best options on the market today. It has successfully struck the perfect balance between fun and performance.
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