The New Balance Fuelcell Propel V4 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 is a neutral running shoe designed for versatility and comfort, priced at $110. Lab tests indicate that it is particularly suitable for runners seeking a balance between easy and tempo runs, thanks to the incorporation of its FuelCell foam and flexible TPU plate.

With a premium upper providing notable comfort, this shoe caters well to a wide range of runners. However, those with an extreme heel strike or requiring additional stability may find it less suitable. Overall, the New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 stands out as a statistically significant choice in the budget-friendly category.


Pros

  • High-quality upper material
  • Ultra-cushioned FuelCell midsole
  • Seamlessly integrated TPU plate
  • Versatile for both easy and tempo runs
  • Long-lasting outsole
  • Perfect for midfoot and forefoot strikers
  • Exceptional value at just $110
  • Grippy outsole

Cons

  • Not the best for heel strikers
  • Stability concerns

Key Features

  • FuelCell foam delivers a propulsive feel to help drive you forward.
  • Upper features no-sew construction for a sleek fit and feel.
  • Constructed with a blend of synthetic and mesh materials.
  • 6mm drop; please note that variances during development may affect this measurement.
  • TPU plate enhances propulsion and traction.

Specifications

  • Fabric type: 50% Synthetic, 50% Mesh
  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Mesh

New Balance Fuelcell Propel V4 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 Skechers GO RUN Ride 11 Hoka Kawana 2 New Balance FuelCell Propel v5
Price $110 $125 $140 $120
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 9.7 oz / 276g 10.1 oz / 285g 10.5 oz / 298g 9.5 oz / 269g
Drop lab Drop brand 4.5 mm 6.5 mm 5.2 mm 6.7 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size True to size True to size True to size Slightly small
Midsole softness Soft Soft Balanced Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Normal Normal Normal
Toebox durability Decent Decent Decent Bad
Heel padding durability Good Bad Good Bad
Outsole durability Good Good Good Decent
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Breathable
Width / fit Narrow Narrow Narrow Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Narrow Medium
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Stiff Moderate
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Moderate Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Moderate Stiff Moderate
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 33.7 mm 34.1 mm 33.2 mm 35.2 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 29.2 mm 27.6 mm 28.0 mm 28.5 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons Summer
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 39% Top 2% Bottom 39% Bottom 17%
Popularity Bottom 32% Bottom 27% Top 15% Bottom 48%