The Details
- Even more foam compared to predecessor
- PEBA/EVA foam FuelCell midsole
- More rubber on forefoot
- Redesigned heel and tongue
- FantomFit
ON THE RUN
Seeing the Rebel change and grow up throughout the years has been wild. What started as a slim, minimal daily trainer has evolved into a fully cushioned, performance-ready workhorse. The Rebel v5 feels like the most refined version yet, soft, light, and free, while still carrying that signature Rebel bounce.
In a world where max cushion has become the standard, the Rebel v5 brings a refreshing sense of balance. With 35mm of PEBA-blended FuelCell in the heel and 29mm in the forefoot, there’s plenty of protection without losing ground feel. The foam hits that sweet spot between soft and snappy, plush enough for recovery miles, responsive enough for tempo days.
The FuelCell midsole doesn’t just feel gooey or mushy; it’s tuned for propulsion. Each stride has that familiar Rebel bounce but with more control and stability. It’s the kind of cushioning that makes you want to keep running.
THE FIT & FEEL
Sidney: What was once a narrow, racing-flat-style shoe is now far more accommodating. The v5’s redesigned midfoot and heel give you a locked-in feel without the loose “floatiness” of the v4. If you found the v4 a bit too roomy or unstable, you’ll be happy to know New Balance pulled things back in with a more tapered midfoot and improved structure. The heel and tongue redesign add that extra bit of security, no slipping, no fuss.
The fit strikes a perfect middle ground: compression through the midfoot with just enough space in the toe box for natural splay. It’s truly the best fit the Rebel has ever had.
THE NITTY GRITTY
Sidney: If you wore the Rebel v4, get ready for a real upgrade. The Rebel v5 isn’t just another version, it’s a whole new era. What used to be a niche, minimal trainer has grown into a well-rounded, accessible shoe for a wider range of runners and foot shapes. It’s the perfect mix of modern cushioning, secure fit, and effortless energy return.
The Rebel has officially grown up, and it looks (and runs) better than ever.
THE RUNDOWN
Sidney: Let’s be honest... New Balance knows how to make a good-looking shoe. The v5 colorways might be the best yet: sleek, bold, and easy to wear anywhere. It’s a shoe that looks as good as it runs, a real “made for business” daily trainer that can handle speed days or long runs while looking sharp. It’s a lightweight mileage machine that shows up for whatever you’ve got planned, steady miles, tempo days, or a last-minute long run you didn’t really mean to sign up for. It’s the kind of shoe that doesn’t need a label; it's just there to get the job done.
Meet the Reviewers
