MEAGHAN: I received an off-white/cream version of the Rebel v5, which I’m beginning to realize might not be available in the U.S. That said, I also got a look at the launch colorway—and it’s a winner. So no worries there. Bottom line: this shoe looks great. New Balance has really been nailing it lately with design and colorways (well, with the notable exception of the London edition of the SC Elite v5… that one’s in a category of its own).
The step-in feel is equally impressive. The PEBA-blended FuelCell foam is soft and welcoming underfoot, and the added padding around the collar and tongue—especially the plush heel—really enhances comfort. Fit-wise, the shoe runs true to size and offers a generous forefoot, which I appreciated. The stretchy, soft laces do a great job locking down the foot without pressure.
Out on the road, the Rebel v5 continues to shine. It’s definitely a neutral trainer, so those needing added structure or stability might want to look elsewhere. But for me, the ride was smooth and responsive. New Balance added more foam underfoot and introduced a center cutout in the midsole—similar to what you’ll see in the SC Trainer and SC Elite, though less aggressive. It contributes to a bouncier, more fluid feel underfoot.
This shoe is a clear competitor to the adidas Adizero EVO SL, and at $10 less, it’s a compelling option. Like the EVO SL, the Rebel v5 is pretty versatile. Whether it was an easy 5-miler, a longer 10-mile run, or a fast mile around the track (I wore this in Boston for our track event), the Rebel handled it all well.
