New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 Reviews

They run the Rebel v4 for faster runs and find it perfect, with a toe box wide enough to stay comfortable.

A runner loves the Rebel v4 for tempo and intervals as a sweet spot between soft and firm.

Anthony Chevalier names it his shoe of the year: light, bouncy and fun at any pace.

Brian Metzler calls it a do-everything trainer for easy, long and up-tempo days. It feels very roomy on narrow feet and may not be a high-mileage workhorse.

Nick Harris-Fry found it a light, fun and versatile unplated trainer that handled track sessions and a 15-miler equally well, with good wet grip. Narrow-footed runners may find the fit loose.

Didn't expect it to replace their Novablast 4 but found it a new level: fun and faster.

At about 100 kg, the Rebel v4 feels like it has no cushion or bounce beyond 5 km, though they set a big 5K PB in it and see it as a non-plated tempo shoe.

Finds the Rebel v4 very light and responsive when picking up the pace despite little soft cushioning, and uses it for speed sessions and tempos under 15 km.

Put through a 100-mile week, including a 23-mile long run, workouts under 6:00/mile and muddy trail and rainy stroller runs. They found the midsole a bit firm until about 30 miles, then smooth and forgiving, with a stable wide base, roomy toe box, strong wet grip and a thick outsole that wore well. Downsides: little heel padding, an insole that gets spongy when wet, and they would want more cushion beyond about 90 minutes. Best as a light do-it-all trainer for shorter runs.