New Balance Women’s FuelCell Rebel V4

The Researcher’s Take: Why We Like It

If you want a shoe that makes you feel fast without the stiffness of a carbon plate, the New Balance Women’s FuelCell Rebel V4 is pure fun on your feet.

Based on our analysis of the updates, this is a significant evolution from the v3. It’s wider, more stable, and packs even more FuelCell foam underfoot. In plain English, it’s a lightweight speedster that feels bouncy and energetic. It’s perfect for tempo runs, intervals, or just days when you want to feel light and quick.

Key Features Breakdown

• Propulsive FuelCell Foam: The midsole uses New Balance’s performance-tuned FuelCell foam. It delivers a propulsive feel that helps drive you forward, offering high energy return without adding weight.
• Geometric Design: The midsole geometry is wider and stacks higher than its predecessor. This provides a more stable landing platform and more cushioning, making it versatile enough for daily mileage, not just speed work.
• Lightweight Speed: Every component, from the foam to the mesh, is optimized for weight savings. You won’t feel like you’re dragging heavy shoes around, even at faster paces.
• Secure & Breathable: The upper features a gusseted tongue with no-sew overlays for a sleek fit that hugs your foot without irritation. Plus, the fun sublimated graphics add a touch of style to your speed.

Deep Dive: Rebel v4 vs. Rebel v3?

The v4 is a bolder shoe.

• More Foam: It has a higher stack height, meaning more cushion underfoot for longer efforts.
• More Stability: The base is noticeably wider, fixing the “wobbly” feeling some runners had in the v3 during cornering.
• The Vibe: While the v3 was a nimble racer-trainer, the v4 feels like a substantial daily trainer that just happens to be incredibly light and fast.

Who Should Buy This Shoe?

• The Speed Seeker: Perfect for tempo runs, intervals, and fartlek sessions where you want to pick up the pace.
• The Non-Plated Racer: If you want a fast shoe for 5K or 10K races but dislike the rigid feeling of carbon plates, this flexible option is ideal.
• The Efficient Daily Runner: For runners with good mechanics, this can serve as a fun, lightweight daily trainer for most of your weekly mileage.

Sizing and Fit Advice

The Rebel v4 generally fits true to size.

• Width: The platform is wider than previous versions, offering a more accommodating fit for various foot shapes. New Balance offers Standard (B) and Wide (D) options.
• Volume: The upper is lightweight and airy, with enough volume for comfort without being sloppy.
• Lockdown: The gusseted tongue ensures the midfoot stays locked in, which is crucial when running at faster speeds.

Technical Specifications

• Category: Neutral / Speed / Tempo
• Cushioning: FuelCell Foam (Propulsive)
• Upper: Synthetic / Mesh with No-Sew Overlays
• Outsole: Rubber with Longitudinal Pods
• Drop: 6 mm