Specs and takeaways:
- Name: New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4
- Weight (men’s size 11): 8.2 oz / 230 g
- Stack height: Heel – 28 mm // Forefoot – 22 mm // 6 mm heel-toe drop
- Sizing: Just a hair small. Wider in the forefoot that the Rebelv3
- Pros: Comfortable; Light; FuelCell foam still slaps
- Cons: Lots of exposed outsole foam.
- Best for: Easy days up to tempo
- Price: $140
Where to buy
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 is the latest iteration of a shoe designed for runners seeking a responsive, lightweight, and fast ride without sacrificing comfort. This update focuses on refining the balance between cushioning and propulsion, while enhancing durability and fit for a broader range of runners. The Rebel v4 aims to address the challenges of combining lightweight materials with the support needed for both short, fast runs and longer, more endurance-focused outings all in a FuelCell foam-only package.
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 Outsole
The outsole of the FuelCell Rebel v4 features a strategic mix of blown rubber and exposed foam to save weight while providing traction where it’s needed most. The rubber is primarily located in the forefoot and heel, offering protection against wear and tear in high-impact areas which New Balance is calling “longitudinal outsole pods”. There are significant cutaways in the midfoot to expose the FuelCell foam, which not only lightens the shoe but also helps with flexibility. The rubber lugs on the outsole are shallow, and obviously cater to paved pursuits.
[Our Take] In terms of traction, the rubber used in the forefoot deliver solid grip on both dry and wet pavement. On dirt roads, the longitudinal outsole pods provide enough bite to prevent slipping, though this shoe is clearly not designed for any sort of real trail, or even gravel for that matter except maybe for a minute or two. Durability-wise, after ~40 miles, the rubber has held up very well, but the exposed foam could be prone to quicker breakdown, especially on rougher surfaces – which is why I’ve kept it on roads (paved and dirt).
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 Midsole
New Balance’s FuelCell midsole is the star of the Rebel v4, and remains designed to provide a responsive, bouncy feel. The heel stack height measures 28 mm, while the forefoot sits at 22 mm, giving the shoe a 6 mm drop. There is no carbon or Pebax plate in this the NB Rebel v4, so the focus here is purely on the foam’s natural responsiveness which is very likely part of what FuelCell fans love.
In terms of feel, the midsole provides excellent energy return, giving a springy sensation with each step. This makes the Rebel v4 ideal for faster-paced runs like tempo sessions or intervals, though it also holds up for longer efforts and easy days without feeling overly harsh. The lack of a plate brings in a softer, more flexible ride compared to plated racing shoes, but the shoe still feels quick and snappy.
We noticed quite a bit of visible crushing lines on the midsole foam but there doesn’t seem to be any significant and permanent compression of the material. With the miles we’ve got on these so far, the crushing seems almost entirely cosmetic.
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 Upper
The upper of the New Balance Rebel v4 is constructed from a very lightweight engineered mesh that provides a snug yet breathable fit – New Balance’s FantomFit. It features a bootie-like design with minimal overlays, which helps keep the shoe nice and light. The tongue is semi-gusseted, which helps keep it in place during runs, and the heel collar is lightly padded to offer some structure without adding bulk. The lacing system is straightforward with lace-shaped eyelets, allowing for easy adjustment, and there is a minimal amount of foam in the collar to provide comfort around the ankle without feeling too restrictive.
The upper is comfortable and breathable, even on warmer days. The engineered mesh is almost entirely devoid of stretch but the construction is well set to accommodate various foot shapes while maintaining a secure lockdown. There is more room in the forefoot of the Rebel v4 than the Rebel v3 though those with wide feet (2E) may need something with more room. Durability-wise, the mesh seems robust enough to withstand regular use without showing signs of breakdown or fraying.
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 Fit
[Our Take] Fit-wise, the NB Rebel v4 runs just a hair on the small side of being true to size. Personally, none of our crew had to size up but it’s evident that those whose feet are kind of in the grey area between sizes may have to. The midfoot and heel are well-locked in, thanks to the semi-gusseted tongue and secure lacing system. The lightly padded heel collar adds just enough structure to prevent heel slippage, making for a secure feel throughout the gait cycle.
On longer runs, the fit remains comfortable, though again, paying attention to sizing could influence this. Overall, the shoe fits well as a lightweight, cohesive unit which provides a secure and stable ride without feeling overly restrictive or too loose.
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 Ride
[Our Take] The ride of the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 is its standout feature. Weighing in at 8.2 ounces (230 grams) for a men’s size 11, it feels very light on the foot. The FuelCell foam provides a responsive, energetic ride that is both soft and springy. While there is no plate in this shoe, the foam itself is lively enough to give the sensation of speed, making this shoe well-suited for tempo runs, speed workouts, and even shorter races.
The Rebel v4 excels in faster efforts but also manages to hold up for longer distances, those looking more substantial cushioning for marathon distances might find it lacking in long-run comfort. For distances up to half marathon, this shoe performs exceptionally well, offering a balance of responsiveness and comfort.
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 Overall
With a retail price of $140, the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 offers a great option for runners seeking a lightweight, responsive shoe that performs across a variety of distances and paces. Its energetic midsole, combined with a breathable and snug upper, makes it a versatile choice for both everyday training and race day efforts. While the sizing and exposed foam on the outsole may be concerns for some runners, overall, the Rebel v4 strikes an excellent balance between speed, comfort, and durability.
What are your thoughts on the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4? Have you run in them, or are you looking to add them to your rotation? Let’s hear your thoughts below!
Where to buy
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