New Balance has introduced the FuelCell Rebel v5, a lightweight running shoe built for everyday use with race-day ambitions. The model arrives with several updates to both form and function, debuting on June 5 in an Urgent Red launch colorway, followed by additional versions in July.
At the core of the Rebel v5 is a new PEBA-infused FuelCell midsole, marking the first time the material has been used in this line. Known for its high energy return and reduced weight, the PEBA blend helps deliver a spring-loaded ride while adding stack height underfoot. The shoe features a 35mm heel and a 29mm forefoot, giving it a 6mm drop that supports midfoot strikers and promotes a more connected ground feel.
The shoe’s sculpted geometry is another key change. Designers altered the rocker profile and refined the angles of the midsole to increase responsiveness without adding stiffness. Combined with the FuelCell foam, this reshaping creates a faster turnover feel during tempo sessions, intervals, or longer training runs.
On the upper, New Balance uses an engineered mesh layered with FANTOMFIT – a lightweight support structure fused directly into the mesh to reduce bulk while improving lockdown. A gusseted tongue stabilizes the midfoot, while the heel design has been revised for added comfort over long distances. The VL-6 last continues from previous models, offering a lower instep and snug fit that will feel familiar to runners who previously trained in the New Balance 1400 or 1500 series.
Weight has slightly increased over the previous version. A men’s size 9.5 weighs in at 7.9 ounces (225 grams), while a women’s size 7 comes in at 6.3 ounces (180 grams). The added grams reflect the expanded midsole volume and extra rubber coverage at the forefoot, which has been redesigned for better durability and traction.
Positioned alongside versatile trainers like the Nike Pegasus Turbo Next and Puma Velocity Nitro 3, the FuelCell Rebel v5 is aimed at runners looking for one shoe to cover daily mileage and faster efforts. It retails for $140 and will be available first on NewBalance.com and through select retailers beginning June 5, with a wider release following on July 1.
Model: New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 “Urgent Red”
SKU: WFCXLQ5
Colorway: Red/Black
Price: 139.99 USD
Release Date: June 4
Available at: New Balance and select retailers
