New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 VS New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5

The FuelCell Rebel series has established itself as a favorite among runners seeking a lightweight, responsive, and versatile shoe, ideal for demanding training runs without the need for a plate. The arrival of the Rebel v5 has generated considerable excitement: what improvements does it bring, and is it worth keeping the previous version? Let's take a closer look.

1. Midsole and cushioning

• Rebel v4 : Equipped with FuelCell and 20% PEBA, it offered a firm and highly responsive foam. It featured a 33.5mm stack in the heel and a 27.5mm stack in the toe, with a 6mm drop.

• Rebel v5 : It maintains the FuelCell + 20% PEBA combination, but the foam is softer and more elastic, with a higher profile (35 mm/29 mm, same drop) . The transition is smoother, ideal for both interval training and long runs.

✅ Result : the v5 offers more generous and protective cushioning, with a more comfortable stride at the cost of losing some firmness.

2. Sole and durability

• V4 : partial sole that left part of the foam exposed, less durable

• V5 : Fully covered sole with more NDurance rubber, better traction and greater wear resistance

✅ Result : greater durability and safety, while still remaining a lightweight trainer (approx. 500–700 km lifespan)

3. Upper and fit

• V4 : very ultralight FantomFit upper, light but less structured.

• V5 : It continues with FantomFit, but with a more structured midfoot, heel, and semi-gusset tongue for better support . Also available in a "wide" version for wider feet.

✅ Result : the v5 offers a more secure and comfortable fit, ideal for those seeking confidence in every step.

4. Weight and profile

• V4 : about ~219 g (US9 man)

• V5 : slightly heavier (225g men, 180g women) due to the larger foam and structure

✅ Result : the slight increase does not affect their lightness; both remain within the mixed category.

5. Sensations and use during running

• V4 : firmer, very responsive and direct, ideal for interval training, fartleks and fast runs; perhaps less comfortable on long runs

• V5 : Offers a more "mixed-daily-trainer" feel: bouncy, comfortable, versatile, capable of both brisk paces and daily mileage with protection . Some users mention that at very fast paces it can feel a bit soft.

✅ Result : the v5 expands its functionality, perfect for those looking for a single shoe for training, series and running.

6. Target audience

Both maintain a 6mm drop and a snug fit; the v5 is more comfortable for wider feet (wide version)

📝 Conclusion

• If you loved the Rebel v4 for its firmness, extreme lightness and ground feel, it's still an excellent option... as long as you can tolerate minimal cushioning.

• If, on the other hand, you value an extra level of comfort, confidence when landing, and a more versatile shoe, the Rebel v5 is a successful evolution that refines the formula without losing the Rebel DNA.