New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 Reviews

A 200 lb runner put 450 miles on the Rebel v5 and noticed no loss of bounce until around 400.

After 150 miles at around 170 to 175 lb, including wet runs, the fit was right immediately: true to size, a long thin tongue with no lace bite and a roomy toe box, though the upper is not very breathable. The very soft foam lost its initial bounce quickly but still does a good job, and the outsole shows very little wear. They call it a great daily trainer that will not do the work for you at faster paces, and some may feel lost in the foam on longer runs.

Soft, light and surprisingly versatile. It handled easy jogs, hill repeats and pickups, the upper breathed in midday heat, and long runs left him fresh. Scores 9-9.5 across ride, fit, durability and value. A plateless shoe that earns a permanent rotation spot.

Light, versatile and fun, with more cushion than v4. The bounce lasted to nearly 80 miles (v4 faded at about half that). The midsole is heavily creased, but the outsole is bulletproof and wet grip is fine. Probably not a 500-mile shoe, but still good value.