New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 Review: An Ultralight Race Shoe with Surprising Comfort

The completely redesigned New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 is a dynamic blend of speed and comfort for daily runs or achieving split times. The high-rebound FuelCell cushioned midsole delivers exceptional propulsion with every step, ensuring a fast and responsive run. The Rebel has a feather-light feel with the synthetic mesh and FantomFit upper—a fusion of lightweight performance mesh and supportive synthetic material. This innovative construction provides targeted support while maintaining high breathability. The FuelCell Rebel v4 is designed to fit like a second skin, offering enough support for efficient runs without feeling bulky. It's the ideal shoe for runners seeking a light, supportive, and exhilarating running experience.

The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 at a Glance:

Running Shoe Support—Neutral runners who don't need a lot of extra support will enjoy the feel of the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4.

Cushion Level—Mid-level cushion ensures every step feels cushioned yet springy for tons of energy and comfort on runs of any length.

Midsole—Your New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 has a heel-to-toe drop of 6 mm.

Shoe Weight—7.5 ounces for men's, 5.9 ounces for women's

Breathability—The synthetic mesh upper regulates foot temperature while molding to the foot.

Responsive—The FuelCell midsole is designed for an energized ride.

Skeletally Engineered Upper—The FantomFit fuses lightweight synthetic mesh with a thicker supportive layer for an ultra-lightweight fit.

VIP 90-Day Perfect Fit Promise—VIP Family members, take the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 for a 90-Day test drive. If you're not feeling the love, simply exchange 'em for your perfect fit.

[karls]

its like a mini superblast. the longest i have taken mine is a little over 7 miles still felt great probably could take it comfortably for 10 miles or so

[LancePeterman]

Confirmed on the upper, base shoe had an almost Altra level toebox feel and midfoot room. I had to size up to an 11 to get the size right, though. Still working on mileage for better wear details. I'm hoping the thin tongue doesn't lead to any lace bite issues.

Update: I have almost 180 miles in them now. Other than the SuperBlast 2's, these are hands down my favorite trainers. I did a half marathon in them in June and they performed very well. Feet were still fresh after 13.1. Not sure I'd do beyond that distance in them but I bet they'd be fine. Durability has been great thus far. No major wear spots and the outsole is very stable.

[stubestrong]

enjoyed my first run, but future runs its for hill repeats. did find when i eased up for corners or people running on heel it felt like a negative heel drop as its that soft.

[willjr]

Width is perfect but it runs short. I am a TTS 10.5 but now I need to exchange for 11. Out of the box the 10.5, felt good but after running for about 1 mile I felt my big toe rubbing on the top of fantomfit and it was not comfortable. I watched many reviews for the past month leading to the release and most say TTS or 1/2 down if narrow footed so I was excited to just put them on and go for a run. Unfortunately, like most asian made NB they run 1/2 small for me.

[paulblaesing]

Thank you for the review!
What is nonplated/pleated mean ( mentioned in your review ?
I'm almost 76, running for a LONG time, far, far from elite, with an ancient body, LOl.
Sounds like they wrecked a great shoe. I don't want to be "Stacked" up higher off the ground. I liked last years, and previous years models for fit and cushioning and low heal drop and relative lightness. What New Bal., or other brand is most like last years Fuel Cell rebel?

[workingoutguy]

This cat talks faster than a Valley Girl Woman

[bogdanceausescu]

How's the stability compared to the Novablast 4?

[Miguel-mvbs]

2:12 Im looking to buut the Rebel V4 for tempo runs. I overpronate.. What would you recommend?

[paulblaesing]

Forgot to mention I'm 5'10' and 175, so no light weight. Been dealing with some knee and same side hip issues for several years. As Emil Zatopek famously said, "make friends with pain, she and I are living together. Hey, I'm ancient, Lol. Pleases see my original comment.

[tonehhh]

would you consider the rebel for daily work, standing few hours? Still debating to get the rebel $140 or the elite V4 $250. Wanted a softest feeling while walking and standing.

[SofaKingA]

Hmm did you always work for Roud Runner Sports? I'm not a huge fan of them. I went there yesterday and couldn't get any help. Also they push this gimmicky VIP club thing which I hate. Just give me the shoes to purchase so I can leave. You're still okay in my book though Ryan. 😂