New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 - Women's Review

Comfort and Fit

The comfort and fit of the FuelCell Rebel v5 address many of the concerns we had about the previous version of this road-running shoe. The upper wraps the foot with a light, flexible material that moves naturally without feeling loose or restrictive.

There's enough structure to keep you secure during quicker efforts, but the overall fit stays relaxed and easygoing, making the shoe just as enjoyable for everyday miles. The midfoot holds you in place without squeezing, while the toe box offers enough breathing room for natural toe splay as the run progresses.

The overall body of the shoe feels a bit short, with runners, ourselves included, noticing that our toes gently touched the tip of the shoe. While we tested and fell in love with our typical size, runners who know they prefer a little extra forefoot space should consider buying a half size up. Nothing about the FuelCell Rebel v5 feels overbuilt or bulky; the materials move with your foot in a way that feels natural, light, and almost slipper-like. Instead, this shoe offers a smooth, unobtrusive fit that disappears once you start moving. It's the kind of comfort that lets you settle in, find your rhythm, and forget about the shoe entirely, which is precisely what many runners look for when logging regular miles.

Cushioning

The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 may not tower over other shoes in terms of height, but the cushioning it provides is exactly what many runners want underfoot.

Designed with midfoot strikers in mind, the Rebel's blend of PEBA and EVA foams creates a smooth, consistent platform that eases the impact of each step while maintaining a responsive feel. What makes this setup shine is the way it rides that fine line between soft and lively. Instead of sinking in with every landing, the foam responds quickly, giving you a gentle push forward and helping your legs keep a quicker rhythm. This responsiveness encourages a smoother, more efficient stride without feeling harsh or unstable, making the shoe feel equally capable on relaxed days and on runs where you want to dial things up a notch.

While the Rebel v5 isn't trying to compete with the flashiest super shoes on the market, its cushioning offers a dependable mix of comfort and quiet propulsion that suits a wide range of workouts. That makes it an excellent choice for runners who want to increase their pace but still value a shoe that feels supportive and versatile enough for everyday training. With a midsole that hits a true sweet spot that is protective enough for regular miles, energetic enough to help you move faster, and balanced enough to feel good from the first step to the last—the shoe offers a ride that's easy to trust and even easier to enjoy.

Breathability

The upper of the Rebel v5 is made of thin, engineered mesh that is almost see-through in the forefoot.

The thinness of the textile translates well to breathability, making the Rebel v5 a shoe that keeps feet comfortably cool during runs. It doesn't rely on perforations but instead uses a single thin piece of mesh to encase the upper, allowing airflow to circulate freely. The result is airflow that is both effective and built around comfort, helping feet stay temperate even on warmer days or longer efforts. This simple, continuous mesh also contributes to the lightweight, flexible feel that complements the shoe's nimble, responsive character.

Traction

Despite having a rubber outsole, the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 doesn't deliver the most secure traction on wet or slippery ground. Its shallow zigzag pattern provides a light texture that works well on dry pavement and track surfaces, but it can struggle when the weather turns.

In rain or on loose terrain, the grip feels less reliable, which can make some runs feel uncertain. While it's far from the worst in terms of traction, runners who regularly encounter puddles or slick conditions may prefer a shoe with deeper lugs or a more aggressive tread.

Should You Buy the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5?

If you are a runner looking for a shoe that feels more energetic than a traditional road running shoe but doesn't come equipped with a full carbon plate or other tech, the FuelCell Rebel v5 should definitely top your list of considerations. We love how this shoe makes quick leg turnover more accessible, while also being perfectly suitable for slower-paced occasions. Runners in need of an affordable, easy-to-wear daily trainer should check out what this fun, flexible shoe has to offer.

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