New Balance Rebel v5 Review (2025): Training Powerhouse?

Julien Guyod

Published on 08/19/2025

Updated on 08/19/2025

In the shadow of the very popular Fresh Foam X 1080, the FuelCell Rebel series is gaining traction in New Balance’s collection

It targets the lightweight and responsive trainer category, where competition is fierce with many popular series like the Asics Novablast 5.

The previous version was quite successful but had some flaws.

Has the brand made significant changes? Who is it for? Does it suit your goals?

That’s what you’ll find out in our complete review.

Our Verdict

Cushioning

The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 follows the current maximalist trend with a 5 mm stack increase. With 35 mm under the heel and 29 mm under the forefoot, it doesn’t reach the quite crazy heights of the moment, but it’s still significant for such a lightweight shoe.

Shock absorption is thus logically better than on the V4; there’s really no limit to consider on the distance to travel, whether in competition or training. As often with lightweight shoes, some heavier runners were skeptical about pushing it further.

But in my opinion, it’s more a matter of sensation preference because I think the cushioning is substantial and quite sufficient. For my part, I was able to take it on runs over 30 km without any problem and I see no issue for use at least up to a half-marathon (or more depending on the profile).

For the midsole, we find the FuelCell foam, but in a new formulation. It is a combination of EVA (80%) and PEBA (20%), still nitrogen-infused. The former providing softness and stability, the latter for reactivity.

The impact sensation is well-balanced and closer to plush for great running pleasure, which confirms that the shoe can be pushed further on the long run compared to the V4.

A word of caution about the 6 mm drop, slightly below market standards and which may require an adaptation period to avoid injury.

Energy Return

Sometimes mentioned in negative reviews, a reported weight increase (215 g compared to 200 g in size 42). It feels relatively little in the ride; it’s more the softer sensation that could be the subject of debates.

For some, there’s less responsiveness for pure speed sessions and more dynamism during tempo sessions.

From my point of view, I think the shoe has clearly gained in versatility and is more effective in competition.

The rocker is moderate but ensures smooth heel-to-toe transitions.

Support and Stability

The upper is well-fitted and the platform is wide. Even though the shoe is for neutral stride and does not have technology to stabilize each stride, we validate good stability and a safe ride.

Foot Lockdown

The FantomFit mesh upper is quite similar to the previous version. With a rather dense structure, breathability is not the shoe’s strong point, except on the toe area which is a bit more ventilated.

The foot can thus heat up in summer; on the other hand, protection in cold weather is very good. From a comfort point of view, I am always impressed by the brands’ prowess to release welcoming uppers with shoes this lightweight.

The cushioning is present and the shoe is pleasant to wear. The heel construction has been completely revamped compared to version 4, which had caused many returns and complaints, for the same reason as the Hoka Mach X 2 (an irritating heel collar causing injuries).

The brand listened to feedback and went back to a more classic configuration, with a rigid and padded heel counter that doesn’t compress the Achilles tendon. The fit in that area is also well-achieved.

The gusseted tongue is well-executed, with no slippage to report. The flat lace system is also effective and completes a good foot lockdown. Perhaps this is why I have seen so few remarks on fit.

The shoe is a bit narrower in the forefoot than the v4, which has suited a very wide variety of runners. The Rebel v5 fits normally, and you can therefore choose your usual size.

Finally, note the reflective elements and the removable insole for hygiene.

The upper is very successful overall, with two points of vigilance on breathability and durability.

Traction

The outsole is covered with more rubber in strategic areas, at the heel and forefoot. This provides good traction with grip felt at every stride.

The current weather did not allow me to judge the traction on wet surfaces, although I have read a feedback mentioning average traction on them.

To verify this when it doesn’t rain, I extensively water slippery white stripes and pass over them several times.

During this test, I noticed a classic grip, perhaps not among the best, but perfectly comparable to the competition.

There are also numerous grooves ensuring good flexibility.

As a good training partner, the shoe can accompany you on standard paths or trails, but not on more demanding terrains (it’s not a trail shoe).

Use scenarios

The shock absorption is very good, and the shoe is perfectly accessible even for beginner runners.

In my opinion, there is therefore no restriction to anticipate in terms of runner profile (e.g., weight, level). You can confidently extend the distance to traditional long runs.

As mentioned above, I have read feedback from some heavier runners who find the shoe more limited for long distances, but I must admit I’m skeptical because with a 35 mm stack, the cushioning is very high (in addition to being quite plush).

Running comfort is also very good, and the shoe is pleasant for all moderate-paced training such as recovery runs, even if it will be less relevant than models dedicated to that.

With its lightness and reactive foam, the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 has responsiveness, and there’s no problem accelerating when needed. Tempo sessions are very enjoyable; it’s a versatile shoe for all scenarios.

The shoe will be (a little) more limited on speed sessions than the previous version, for example. Indeed, the still plush sensation and the absence of a stiffening plate will not facilitate sharp accelerations for short repetitions.

In competition, there will also be more efficient models. But again, the shoe is a very good option for runners who want to have a single pair and do not want the rigidity of a plate.

Quality and Durability

When we write tests, we consider all the runners’ feedback. Some reported slightly premature wear of the mesh, which is a point to consider, trying (if possible) to stay away from brambles or other obstacles.

Most other feedback (and mine) talk about rather standard durability at this level. The outsole is of very good quality.

The shoe thus offers a very good quality-price ratio.

Note also the New Balance Green Leaf standard: for textiles, 50% or more of the materials used are from recycled fibers.

Finally, according to our information, the shoe is not vegan.

Conclusion

The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 hits hard and clearly ranks among the best. If you’re looking for a lightweight and versatile pair to do everything with (training as well as competition), it’s hard to find better at the moment.

You can find more efficient products for pure speed sessions and/or competitions, but the shoe is an excellent option without a plate for a runner who wants to have only one pair.

Facts

Technical Specs

Cushioning

Technologies

Use

Reference: official site