The countdown is on—New Balance’s FuelCell Rebel v5 is dropping in fewer days than the number of editions in the series! With improvements and innovations across nearly every inch, here’s how this pair is set to shake up the running scene by force, whether you like it or not!
FuelCell Rebel v5
Let’s start with the shoe’s midsole. Rather than sticking to the pure but standard FuelCell foam used in previous iterations, the FuelCell Rebel v5 levels up by infusing its signature technology with a special PEBA blend, delivering a bouncier, more responsive ride with every step.
Also, despite retaining the same 6mm heel-toe-toe drop the v4 possesses, the FuelCell Rebel v5 is 5mm thicker than its predecessor, meaning you’ll get even more energy return than ever before without sacrificing the familiar flexibility and natural mobility the series is already known for!
Moving on to the upper, the shoe retains the classic breathable FantomFit mesh and lightweight gusseted tongue combo of the v4, offering the same versatility and sense of security to take on every kind of run, whether you’re logging daily miles or standing out in the pack.
Design-wise, aside from the refreshed New Balance FuelCell and NB branding on the top and bottom of the tongue, the shoe remains recognisably Rebel with only subtle updates, because why fix what isn’t broken, right?
Unlike the upper, however, the heel of the FuelCell Rebel v5 has seen plenty of fixing! From the added padding for a more cushioned, comfortable feel, to the removal of the v4’s pointed heel spikes in favour of a sleeker and more aerodynamic design, each small yet noticeable upgrade ultimately gives the shoe a bolder sculpt, contributing to a uniquely smooth underfoot stride.
The main colourway of New Balance’s Fuelcell Rebel v5 will drop on July 1, 2025, both online and at select retailers like Suntec City, Jewel Changi, Paragon, VivoCity, Novena Square, and ION Orchard for S$199.
But if you can’t wait that long, good news! The limited edition in urgent red, black, and metallic silver is already available on the New Balance website and in-store at Paragon, so go get it while stocks last! For more shoes to satisfy your sneakerhead cravings, check out our article on the Y2K design of New Balance’s ABZORB 2000!
Visuals Courtesy of New Balance.