New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 review

We believe the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 is a fantastic choice for:

• Those who loved the previous Rebels and desired a roomier upper, as we believe they will find this version to be a perfect fit.
• Runners looking for a lightweight, stable, and fun shoe that delivers on all fronts while still being priced at just $140.
• Individuals who need a shoe for daily runs and speed workouts but prefer to avoid stiffer models with a plate.

The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 might not satisfy those who prefer maximalist running shoes due to its sub-30-mm stack height.

We believe there are better choices for runners seeking more cushioning at a similar price and weight. The ASICS Novablast 4 offers a thicker platform, making it a more suitable alternative. Additionally, if budget isn't a constraint and you desire even more cushioning, we recommend checking out the ASICS Superblast.

We also think that the Rebel v4 is not the best option for runners with narrow feet. Our lab tests have shown it's quite wide, which may lead to a less secure fit. We do not recommend this shoe for such runners—instead, the NB Rebel v3 or the Hoka Mach 5 would provide better lockdown and overall fit.

The Rebel v4's upper has undergone a significant transformation from its predecessors. It still features engineered mesh, but New Balance has reintroduced an older technology called FantomFit, which combines excellent ventilation with structured support.

We tested the toebox's breathability with our smoke pumping machine and confirmed it's airy at 4/5 for us.

Next, we examined the upper under a light, which revealed the shoe's construction details. The toebox starts off super-thin, and then the shoe adds more layers to enhance stability, although this slightly reduces airflow in those areas.

Using the light, we also discovered that the upper differs significantly from most engineered mesh designs. Rather than being thicker with some ventilation holes, it's exceptionally thin but includes thicker areas strategically placed throughout.

To further analyze these thicker areas, we switched to the microscope.

It's fascinating that New Balance opted for a completely opposite approach than most running shoes on the market. We always appreciate when brands try different stuff!

The upper is minimally padded, prioritizing lightness above all else—except in the heel area. But, as always, the Rebel is designed for a lightweight experience—take it or leave it.

The FantomFit upper delivers a lightweight and breathable experience, yet durability tells a completely different story.

We tested the upper with our Dremel tool—like we do with all our shoes—and unfortunately, we discovered one of the worst durability results we've seen in the lab. This clearly earns a 1/5 rating.

It's evident that it won't be a super durable shoe for those prone to wearing holes. For anyone in that category, we recommend opting for a more robust option like the Endorphin Speed 4.

After applying the Dremel for the second time, we were thrilled to discover an outstanding outcome—the complete opposite of the previous one.

It was so impressive that we awarded it a perfect 5/5!

The outsole of the Rebel v4 has been significantly upgraded from its predecessor, now sporting a completely new rubber pattern designed to enhance both grip and durability. Indeed, we found the grip to be truly impressive, even on dirt roads.

During our testing, the hardness measured at 81.5 HC on our durometer, which is fairly average and suggests decent durability—though we'll continue to monitor its performance in our upcoming tests!

In our latest Dremel test, we adjusted our approach due to the tougher nature of the rubber compared to the upper. We increased the speed to 10K RPM and ran the tool for a longer period.

The results were satisfactory, though not astonishing, as we found a 0.8-mm indentation in the rubber.

In our final analysis of the outsole, we measured a thickness of 3.2 mm. While this might appear average compared to other shoes, it's actually quite generous from New Balance for a shoe designed to be as lightweight as possible.

It's clear there are two approaches to achieving good durability while keeping the weight low, and New Balance opted for the strategy of using thicker rubber, rather than a thinner layer that covers more of the midsole.

One of the standout features of the Rebel series has always been its lightweight design, and despite appearing like a supercharged version of previous models, New Balance has impressively managed to keep the shoe under 8 ounces.

In fact, it weighs just 7.5 oz or 213g—truly remarkable.

The heel height of just 28.0 mm is notably lower than most running shoes, especially recent launches. However, the Rebel has always favored a moderately low design, and 28.0 mm is well-suited for its purpose—not for long runs, but for fast and fun ones.

It’s also worth mentioning that the midfoot is slightly thicker than 28.0 mm. However, we measure every shoe according to World Athletics guidelines, regardless of its geometry.

Measured in our lab and still following World Athletics guidelines, the forefoot came in at just 21.5 mm.

This dimension is a blessing for those who prefer a natural ride with plenty of ground feel. However, we believe it may not fully satisfy those who favor more cushioned, maximalist shoes.

The Rebel v4 adopts the design and geometry similar to its racing counterpart, the Elite v4, which we've noted that causes the midfoot to be higher than the heel. This design may not be ideal for heel strikers, who could sink into the rear of the Rebel.

We also measured a 6.5-mm drop, which is particularly suitable for runners who utilize a midfoot or forefoot striking technique.

The insole, reminiscent of those found in racing shoes, measures just 2.5 mm.

We particularly appreciate this thin footbed because it keeps the shoe low-profile, maximizing the foam over the insole to enhance energy return.

And speaking of the midsole, it still bears the FuelCell name, yet the foam has evolved significantly from the previous Rebels. Now, it's composed of 20% PEBA and 80% EVA—an improvement from its predecessor, although it still doesn’t match the premium, pure-PEBA FuelCell found in the Elite v4.

This iteration of FuelCell remains pillowy-soft—like every Rebel—at just 8.5 HA, but feels just a bit firmer underfoot than previous versions because of the inclusion of PEBA. We found this advantageous for heavier runners as it really helps to prevent bottoming out.

Finally, we have to admit that having crafted a massive guide on midsole foams, we find it frustrating when companies use the same name for midsoles that are totally different.

After placing the Rebel v4 in the freezer for 20 minutes and retesting it with the Shore A durometer, we discovered it became 47.1% firmer.

While that might sound significant, because the FuelCell foam is originally buttery-soft, it still measures just 12.5 HA. Consequently, the increase in firmness is not very noticeable.

Another significant change from the earlier versions of the Rebel is the introduction of a rocker. It now sports a distinct curved shape in both the heel and forefoot—a shift that moves away from the flatter design of its predecessors.

While this rocker certainly helps promote forward motion and smoother transitions, we feel that runners who enjoyed the racing-flat vibes of the previous models might not appreciate this new feature.

One of the most significant changes—aside from aesthetics—in the latest Rebel is its stability. Previously, the Rebel series was known for being somewhat unstable, but this latest version has completely flipped the script with multiple changes like massive midsole sidewalls.

In our view, this substantial shift in design won't be for everyone. Sure, increased stability might sound great, but it does take away from the fun, wild ride that characterized previous Rebels. That less practical, yet fascinatingly unique aspect was a big part of their charm. After all, having fun is a big reason of why we run, isn't it?

A major factor in the domesticated ride of the Rebel v4 is its torsional rigidity. Although still relatively low at 2/5, this marks an increase from the super-flexible Rebel v3, which scored 1/5 and offered an exceptionally natural ride.

We discovered another unexpected change— the heel counter is less stiff than before, now rated at 2/5 compared to the previous 3/5.

This is somewhat concerning to us, as the heel isn't very padded, and the lockdown isn't as effective as it used to be. However, employing a runner's knot could potentially resolve any issues.

Yet, it's in the midsole width where this shoe has undergone its most significant change. Moving from 110.3 mm in the Rebel v3, our lab measurements show the updated version at an impressive 124.7 mm—a massive adjustment with crucial implications.

The most noticeable impact, as previously mentioned in this lab review, is the increased stability provided by the now gargantuan landing platform, similar to some stability shoes. The major downside? Agility and fun suffer, as the shoe doesn't move as nimbly as before.

Think of it this way—if the Rebel v3 was like a go-kart, the Rebel v4 is akin to a lightweight sports hatchback.

The heel provided an even bigger surprise than the forefoot, prompting us to double-check our measurements due to the dramatic change between generations.

The Rebel v4 features a 101.5-mm heel, a substantial increase from the 81.5-mm heel of the Rebel v3, making it 25% wider than before!

Another hallmark of the Rebel series has always been its exceptionally low stiffness, making it a top choice for those who prefer a natural-feeling, flexible running shoe that lets the feet work without the aid of Pebax or carbon-fiber plates.

Fortunately, this feature is not only retained in the v4, but our 90-degree bend test showed it to be even more flexible than its predecessor, requiring just 13.3N to bend.

With the midsole composed of EVA foam incorporating only 20% PEBA, it was evident to us that its performance in cold temperatures would be less than ideal.

Indeed, it becomes 25.5% stiffer, which, although better than the v3's 55.6% big increase, is still quite noticeable during winter months. 

While the previous Rebel toebox had its fans, there were many criticisms about it being too snug. New Balance responded to this feedback in a big way—just as they did with every other update in this version.

Now, measuring at 99.6 mm, the shoe not only meets but exceeds the width of most other options, making it an excellent choice for those with regular or wide feet, but less appealing for individuals with narrow feet.

It's also worth noting that New Balance also offers this model in a 2E width in select markets.

The big toe area has undergone the most significant transformation. The earlier Rebels were known for their excessively tapered and constrictive toe boxes, similar to track spikes, but this latest design marks a complete turnaround.

At 81.6 mm, we found the toe cap to be exceptionally spacious, offering a much more comfortable fit.

The tongue is semi-gusseted, meaning it's partially attached to the sides. We believe this is the optimal design for any running shoe aiming for speed, as it enhances the lockdown by preventing the tongue from moving sideways.

In our previous lab review, we highlighted the remarkably low weight of the Rebel v4, though it does involve some trade-offs.

One such compromise is the tongue thickness—measuring just 2.1mm, it's more akin to what you'd find on a competition shoe than on a daily trainer. Nevertheless, we've found it comfortable enough for both short and medium-distance runs, but pairing the Rebel v4 with thick, padded socks for longer runs is a must.

The Rebel v3 doesn't feature a heel tab, staying true to the simple, geometric design themes seen in the latest 2024 New Balance launches. In fact, this shoe just looks like a baby Elite v4.

The insole is removable, as it isn't glued to the last—however, we advise caution when replacing it with another footbed. We discovered that the shoe is designed for a super-thin insole, and using a thicker option may overly restrict the internal vertical space.

We also found that the insole is perforated, which is a delightful addon.

We love reflective elements as they enhance safety during after-dusk runs. And we found that including them in a $140 shoe is a fantastic addition—especially since the Rebel v3 featured them as well.