The Rebel v2 doesn’t feel like a tempo trainer anymore because of how soft and flexible it is. All the shoes mentioned above are better shoes for speedwork. Developed to meet the ever-evolving demands of serious distance runners, the New Balance FuelCell collection is the perfect combo of speed, rebound and energy return. Showcasing an exciting array of cutting-edge performance-driven technologies, it promises to propel you to the next level. The core component of FuelCell running shoes is our nitrogen compound FuelCell foam technology - game changing midsole cushioning that delivers radically improved energy return performance. In a pair of New Balance FuelCell running shoes, you’ll feel the benefits with every propulsive stride.

It was a risk for New Balance to introduce another lightweight, tempo trainer into their performance running lineup. Saucony Freedom 4 - PWRRUN PB gives the shoe a hugely responsive ride that's capable of heavy workouts and even races for those seeking a non-plated option The New Balance Rebel v3 is one of those trainers that just keeps getting better and better with each update. New Balance said that their goal with the new version was to make it appeal to a wider group of runners, to make it 10 – 15% more democratic. It has a 6 mm drop which makes it more of a midfoot/forefoot striker trainer than a heel striker trainer because it encourages you to strike further forward- this makes it a great shoe for short tempo or workout runs if you prefer a plateless trainer for speedwork. I find the flexible forefoot of the Rebel v3 a little too relaxed; I crave something stiffer with a plate for speedwork.Most lightweight trainers have a firm ride which makes them only suitable for short, fast runs but the Pegasus Turbo could be used for longer runs as well as short, tempo ones.

After 50 miles, the outsole seems to be doing okay. Even though it is soft, the flexible design spreads the wear and tear evenly. The FuelCell TC is also a better tempo trainer than the Rebel. The Rebel v2 now falls into the daily training category. The Rebel is a running shoe designed for runners who love soft-riding shoes. The juicy slab of FuelCell midsole foam compresses so much and so easily, even if you’re a light runner below 60 kilograms. Matt: "The upper on the Rebel v2 is great. It is a thin mesh that holds my foot snuggly and comfortably. Underfoot, this shoe is not as stable as other models, but the soft and structured upper gave me the confidence to use the Rebel v2 no matter which runs I was going on."

IS THE NEW BALANCE FUELCELL REBEL V2 DURABLE?

David: "With more FuelCell cushioning in the midsole than the original model, the Rebel v2 feels plush and comfortable regardless of pace. With its soft landings, I was able to go through my daily runs with less muscle soreness." Personal: A (Really lightweight, protective, bouncy, and responsive. This is a shoe I really like doing strides in, road workouts, long runs, etc.) The fit is on the narrow side but I think most runners will be able to wear the standard D width without any problems. The cushy properties of the foam are easily accessible at any speed without any mushiness. The lightweight foam is lively as it gets. A 10 min/mile (6 min/km) pace feels just as doable as a spirited 7 min/mile (4:30 min/km) speed. Over longer distances, the 204 gram/7.2-ounce weight makes for easy wear. The Rebel is easily capable of going half-marathon distances and beyond.

The outsole isn’t much to look at. The rubber slabs are thin and soft, thus allowing them to bend whenever the midsole does.

Most runners would attest to the merits of this shoe, so the New Balance Fuelcell Rebel V2 ended up being the surprise break-out hit of 2021-22. Just like the Rebel v2, going true to size will be a really snug fit so I suggest going up a half size. This is one of the rare shoes I’ve tested which I needed to size up. Going up a half size will provide a spacious forefoot and toe box for long training runs.

However, if you explore alternatives outside New Balance, a road racer like the Saucony Type A9 is excellent for short-distance races.

New Balance FuelCell Rebel v2 - At A Glance

New Balance has worked its magic, balancing the softness and responsiveness of the Rebel's FuelCell midsole almost perfectly. These highly versatile lightweight trainers can push the pace and offer an impressive energy return for a non-plated shoe. The first thing that everyone should know about the Rebel V2’s upper is that it fits small. If you usually size into a US 9, then the appropriate size for the Rebel should be US 9.5. Our favorite plate-cushioned racer continues to the Saucony Endorphin Speed V2 because of the value it offers at the price. IS THE NEW BALANCE FUELCELL REBEL V2 DURABLE? This is a shoe meant for tempo runs, so the forefoot has a snug fit that prevents the foot from sliding.