The New Balance Fuelcell Rebel V2 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v2 is a versatile running shoe designed for those seeking performance across various training sessions. Ideal for runners who appreciate a plush feel during recovery days and long runs, it features a cushioning system that effectively balances comfort and responsiveness.

With a firm 31.5 HA foam, the shoe provides a stable platform that supports faster paces during tempo workouts. The design ensures that it accommodates different running styles while delivering reliable performance metrics.


Pros

  • True to size
  • Fits wide feet well
  • Lightweight
  • Breathable upper
  • Great lockdown
  • Ultra-comfortable
  • Bargain at $130 (should be $160)

Cons

  • Slightly unstable when walking
  • No heel-loop
  • Stiffens in cold temperatures

Key Features

  • FuelCell foam: This proprietary foam technology offers a propulsive feel that enhances your run by helping to drive you forward.
  • Synthetic/mesh construction: The combination of synthetic materials and mesh enhances breathability and durability, ensuring your feet stay comfortable during long runs.
  • Deconstructed heel counter: Provides essential support without adding unnecessary weight, allowing for a more natural stride.
  • Molded collar foam: This feature helps lock down your foot securely, offering additional stability as you move.
  • Lace closure: Ensures a customizable and secure fit tailored to your individual foot shape.

Specifications

  • Fabric type: Synthetic-and-mesh
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Synthetic
  • Closure type: Lace-Up

New Balance Fuelcell Rebel V2 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

New Balance FuelCell Rebel v2 Adidas Adizero SL2 Brooks Hyperion Tempo New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5
Price $130 $130 $150 $140
Pace Tempo Daily running Tempo Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 7.1 oz / 201g 8.6 oz / 245g 7 oz / 198g 7.8 oz / 220g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 8.9 mm 8.2 mm 9.0 mm 6.3 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Mid/forefoot
Size Half size small Half size small True to size True to size
Midsole softness - Balanced Balanced Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold - Small Small Small
Toebox durability - Bad Good Bad
Heel padding durability - Good Decent Good
Outsole durability - Decent Good Good
Breathability Breathable Breathable Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Narrow Wide Medium Medium
Toebox width - Medium Medium Medium
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Flexible Moderate
Torsional rigidity Flexible Moderate Flexible Flexible
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Flexible Moderate Moderate
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 26.2 mm 34.9 mm 28.7 mm 33.0 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 17.3 mm 26.7 mm 19.7 mm 26.7 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season Summer Summer All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 32% Top 13% Top 27% Top 8%
Popularity Bottom 18% Top 46% Top 48% Top 11%