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The New Balance Rebel v5 Running Shoes feature a number of subtle - yet significant - updates. This article dives into how the changes affect the fit and underfoot feel.
New Balance Revel v5 Running Shoes Tech Guide
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Women’s approximate weight: 180 grams
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Men’s approximate weight: 227 grams
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Forefoot stack height: 29 mm
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Rearfoot stack height: 35 mm
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Drop: 6 mm
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Midsole: FuelCell foam (PEBA/EVA foam blend)
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Upper: FantomFit
Midsole construction
The New Balance Rebel v5 Running Shoes still have a FuelCell midsole. This PEBA/EVA blend is designed to offer an ultra-light and bouncy experience.
The key change is the midsole stack and base nets (width) have increased. This means the midsole should offer more protection - while the wider base ensures it remains inherently stable.
Similar to the previous version, the distinct geometric shaping improves energy return and stability.
Outsole construction
There’s slightly more outsole rubber in the forefoot section. Interestingly, the outsole rubber doesn’t extend down the midfoot anymore. It’s fair to say the overall coverage is very similar.
Upper construction
Even though the extra midsole volume has added some weight, the new upper design also increases the weight of the Rebel v5 Running Shoes in comparison to the previous model.
Yes, the upper is still New Balance’s race-inspired FantomFit design - with ultra-light bonded support. However, there is considerably more padding around the heel counter and a slightly thicker tongue. Meaning the upper offers a plusher and more supportive fit.
Testing feedback
New Balance kindly supplied Run4It with some Rebel v5 Running Shoes for testing. The next section of this article provides a summary of our experience running in them.
How do the Rebel v5 Running Shoes fit?
Finlay’s feedback:
Having run in the previous version, I find the new model offers a much more supportive fit - especially around the heel. While it still feels very light, the extra padding improves the comfort during everyday miles. Ultimately because there’s better lockdown and security.
I still find opting for half a size bigger than my standard UK running shoe size in the Rebel v5 Running Shoes fits best. The toe box is not narrow, but it seems to run slightly shorter than other New Balance models.
Romain’s feedback:
The previous version felt light and grounded right from the first step. In comparison, the Rebel v5 offers a more supportive sensation at step-in, without feeling heavier or bulkier. They fit like a glove, and the comfort was immediate - no break-in runs were needed.
My running shoe size usually falls between a UK 10.5 and 11, depending on the toe box width. I chose a UK 11 in the Rebel v5, and it feels spot on. The upper is so light and comfortable that I barely notice I’m wearing shoes, and the toe box provides a secure yet natural fit. If you tend to sit between half sizes, I’d recommend going with the larger size in this model.
How do they feel underfoot?
Finlay’s feedback:
The extra midsole volume is very noticeable - particularly at slower speeds. I didn’t find the previous model offered enough protection for easy miles. In contrast, the Rebel v5 Running Shoes feel very comfortable - and stable. This means they’re suitable for a much wider range of intensities.
Importantly, the midsole still offers great energy return when you pick up the pace. And I still find the cushioning feels at its best during steady-paced runs. This is simply because the lightness and responsiveness of the cushioning makes it easier to sustain your pace.
I don’t find the cushioning offers enough propulsion for faster-paced workouts. This is potentially down to the fact that I’m used to using a plated model for high-intensity sessions. And I would always opt for the extra ‘help’ for a harder run.
Romain’s feedback
This version is definitely more versatile than the previous one. The midsole cushioning feels softer, offering increased comfort and protection—especially over longer runs. It also feels bouncy, making it easier to maintain faster paces.
I tested them across a range of distances and paces, including track workouts, short easy and steady runs, as well as longer, slower efforts. It handled everything well, but its real sweet spot lies around my marathon pace (between 4:00 min/km and 4:30 min/km).
During the track workout, where paces ranged from 3:15 min/km to 3:40 min/km, the Rebel v5 didn’t feel quite propulsive enough for those faster efforts. While it held up, it lacked the snap and energy return I’d want at that intensity.
I really enjoyed using them for longer, slower runs. On days I felt fresh, I found myself naturally picking up the pace without realising it—which says a lot about the shoe's smooth ride. However, on days when I needed to keep things easy and my legs felt fatigued, I would have preferred something with a bit more cushioning and structure for added support and protection.
New Balance Rebel v5 Running Shoes summary
The New Balance Rebel v5 Running Shoes are designed to deliver a light and fast feel, while also being suitable for everyday miles and steady-paced training runs. It’s fair to say the updates - as subtle as they may seem - definitely make the Rebel v5 a more viable option for daily runs.
Yes, if you’re looking for running shoes that make your easy miles feel as comfortable as possible, this is unlikely to be the best choice. However, if you’re looking for running shoes that are suitable for a wide range of paces - and you don’t want to rotate between different models - the Rebel v5 is likely to be a very good choice.
If you do rotate between different models, and like to wear a specific model for set intensities, the Rebel v5 Running Shoes are perfect for steady-paced runs and tempo sessions. There’s no doubt that doing some faster-paced training runs in a non-plated model can have some favourable benefits for your development.
Overall, the New Balance Rebel v5 Running Shoes offer a light and dynamic ride. The updates offer a softer underfoot feel and more supportive fit. What hasn’t changed is that the Rebel continues to look very cool.
The New Balance Rebel v5 is available on www.run4it.uk.
