2 min read

Gear Check #2 New Balance Rebel V4

Gear Check #2 New Balance Rebel V4
NB FuelCell Rebel V4

After logging 200 miles in the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4, I can confidently say this shoe has earned its place in my rotation. Whether I’m doing intervals, tempo runs, or just clocking in midweek mileage, the Rebel v4 continues to impress with its bounce, comfort, and versatility.

First Impressions

Right out of the box, the Rebel v4 feels like a performance shoe. It’s incredibly lightweight and has a sleek, fast design that begs to go fast. The colorways are bold and stylish (honestly, some of the best New Balance has put out in a while), and the upper is made of a breathable mesh that keeps your feet cool during hot runs.

What Stands Out After 200 Miles

Here’s what I’ve learned after really putting this shoe through its paces:

  • Wider Toe Box & Midfoot: Compared to previous versions, the Rebel v4 has a noticeably roomier toe box and a more stable midfoot. This makes it super comfortable for longer sessions and reduces any tightness during foot swelling on hot days.
  • Breathable Upper: The engineered mesh upper is light and airy, making it ideal for warm weather or intense workouts.
  • Soft & Bouncy Ride: The midsole is what really makes a difference. It’s soft underfoot but still very responsive. Every stride feels smooth and springy—perfect for those days when you want to feel light on your feet.
  • Versatility: I mainly use the Rebel v4 for tempo runs and intervals, and it handles those efforts beautifully. But it’s also cushioned enough for general training and easy runs.

Who Should Try the Rebel v4?

If you're a neutral runner looking for a lightweight, fun-to-run-in shoe that can handle:

  • Tempo sessions
  • Speed workouts
  • Mid-distance runs
  • Even some longer efforts (if you don’t mind a bit of bounce)

…this shoe is a strong contender. It’s a great all-rounder with a performance edge.

The Only Con? It Might Tempt You to Go Too Fast

If I had to nitpick, the one downside is that this shoe almost feels too good—so much so that it can make easy or long runs tricky. The soft, springy ride encourages you to pick up the pace when you’re supposed to be cruising. It’s something I’ve had to keep in check when trying to stick to slower, recovery-paced runs.

Final Thoughts

The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 is a standout neutral trainer that brings high-performance feel without a plate. With 200 miles logged, I’m still loving the ride, the fit, and how it handles tempo work. It’s not just a great shoe for speed days—it’s one of the most enjoyable shoes I’ve run in this year.

If you’re looking for a lightweight, breathable, and bouncy shoe that can keep up with everything from intervals to long tempo runs, give the Rebel v4 a shot. Just be warned—it might make you run faster than you’re supposed to.