New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 delivers speed without sacrifice

The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 is a big shift forward in comfort & energy return. The minimalist non plated tempo run & race shoe has had a serious makeover from version 4, and we like it!

Still super light at just 176gram in Euro 38 albeit marginally heavier than v4, but now much softer which means more comfort, which inspires holding form and confidence longer when the body tires. My fastest half marathon in 20 years must mean something is right underfoot. 

What NB said “The Rebel v5 delivers speed without sacrifice — a confident step forward for runners who want comfort, lightness, and just a touch of fun.” Yes I run for the joy of it — the clarity, the rhythm, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from getting out three times a week and covering my steady 20 to 30 kilometres. I’m not chasing podiums, but I do like running efficiently and comfortably — and if a shoe helps me go faster without my legs complaining, even better.

So when I laced up the new New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5, I wasn’t expecting it to change my running. But it did. In fact, I ran my fastest half marathon in these (straight out the box, I might add) and not a single blister in sight. 

First Impressions

Let’s start with the look: bright neon, energetic, and unapologetically bold. You can’t help but feel a bit faster before you’ve even left the house. The shoe feels incredibly light in hand — and that sensation carries through on the run. Despite having more cushioning than the previous model, it doesn’t feel bulky or slow. It’s that rare mix of soft and springy that supported my arch and makes every stride feel smooth and effortless.

How It Compares to the Rebel v4

The v5 is a clear evolution — more cushioned, better structured with increased padding, and more versatile. 

Feature Rebel v4 Rebel v5

• Stack height 28 mm heel | 33 mm heel

• 22 mm forefoot | 27 mm forefoot

• Drop 6 mm | 6 mm (unchanged)

• Weight (women’s) 180g | 190g but actual measured for EU 38 176grams versus 169grams - marginal increase. 

• Ride feel firmer, snappier, best for short/tempo runs

• Softer, smoother, ideal for long runs 

• Upper lightweight mesh, minimal structure

• Improved mesh, more padded heel, softer tongue

• Fit Roomy forefoot but loose heel Snug midfoot + secure heel lockdown

  
  

That extra 5 mm of FuelCell foam makes all the difference — the ride feels plush but responsive, with enough pop to keep your cadence lively.

I also appreciate the improved heel structure. The v4’s loose heel occasionally made me retie mid-run; no such issue here. The new design holds your foot firmly without feeling constrictive also helped by using the lace to reduce heel slip.

On the Road

Most of my running is a mix of fairly even camber road and pavement, sometimes a sand road thrown in for variety. The Rebel v5 handled them all with ease. The wide base feels stable even when you’re a bit tired and your form starts to fade late in a run.

During my half marathon, the shoe felt light and bouncy all the way through. The cushioning kept my legs fresh — no aching calves or sore feet the next day.

Small Quirk

If I had to nitpick, the laces are just a touch too short. I prefer to double-knot my shoes for longer runs, but there isn’t quite enough length to do that comfortably. It’s a small thing, but worth mentioning — especially if, like me, you hate having to stop to re-tie during a good run.

The Verdict

The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 is easily one of the most comfortable shoes I’ve run in — light, soft, and fast, without compromising on comfort. For someone like me, running 20–30 km a week, it’s the perfect balance between performance and protection. It’s versatile enough for tempo sessions, long runs, and race days alike.

The improvements over the v4 are clear: more cushioning, better fit, improved heel hold, and smoother transitions. And that bright neon colourway? Just pure motivation.

The only thing I’d change? Maybe those laces. Otherwise, it’s a shoe I’ll happily keep in rotation — and probably the one I’ll wear for my next race.