The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 is a very distinctive running shoe: light and lively enough for faster running, yet cushioned and flexible enough for regular training.
This women version in Pink Lemonade / Pink Salt, reference WFCX49I, is designed for neutral runners looking for a responsive and comfortable shoe without the stiffness of a carbon plate.
Discover the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 women at Tripp Sport
Rebel v5 women: key figures
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Claimed women weight | About 177 g |
| Measured heel stack | 33.0 mm |
| Measured forefoot stack | 26.7 mm |
| Measured drop | 6.3 mm |
| Claimed drop | 6 mm |
| Measured foam softness | 25.9 AC |
| Midsole | FuelCell PEBA/EVA |
| Carbon plate | No |
| Fit | Women standard B width |
| Best surface | Road and firm paths |
| Foot strike | Neutral |
| Retail price | €160 |
New Balance states a women weight of around 177 g. Independent figures can differ according to the tested size and version, which explains normal variations of a few grams.
More cushioning, while keeping the Rebel character
The Rebel v5 keeps the light and playful feel of the range but adopts a more versatile geometry. Independent RunRepeat measurements indicate 33.0 mm at the heel and 26.7 mm at the forefoot, giving a real 6.3 mm drop, very close to the stated 6 mm.
The extra material under the forefoot compared with the Rebel v4 improves protection as mileage builds. This is especially useful for runners landing through the midfoot or forefoot. The rocker remains progressive: the shoe encourages a smooth transition without forcing an aggressive forward roll.
Soft FuelCell foam, without a carbon plate
The midsole combines PEBA, valued for low weight and energy return, with EVA for balance and durability. RunRepeat measured its softness at 25.9 AC, compared with a 35.6 AC average in its test panel. A lower value indicates a softer foam.
The result is not a hard and mechanical ride. It is a fluid, light and naturally flexible transition. The absence of a carbon plate brings several practical benefits:
- more natural flexibility;
- comfort at moderate paces;
- less stiffness under the forefoot;
- a less demanding feel for the lower leg;
- greater day-to-day versatility.
It still has enough response for tempo running, fartlek, longer intervals and progressive sessions.
What changes compared with Rebel v4?
The increased forefoot stack gives more comfort on longer runs. The heel collar and padding have also been improved to reduce irritation while retaining a secure rear-foot hold. The tongue is longer and better padded, and additional outsole rubber at the forefoot should improve grip and slow wear in high-contact areas.
A fast shoe or a daily trainer?
The Rebel v5 sits between these two categories. Its low weight makes pace changes easy, while the more generous cushioning makes it suitable for regular training. It works well for dynamic easy runs, threshold work, fartlek, long intervals, progressive runs, treadmill sessions and selected races where comfort matters more than plate stiffness.
Who is it for?
The Rebel v5 is built for a neutral gait. Its moderate drop supports a natural transition and is particularly suitable for midfoot runners. The updated geometry is also more accessible to light heel strikers than the previous version.
It is not a stability shoe for runners needing substantial guidance. Its soft foam may also feel too mobile for those who prefer a very firm platform. When in doubt, a Tripp Sport gait analysis helps observe real movement instead of relying only on a theoretical category.
Fit and sizing
Reference WFCX49I uses the standard New Balance women B width. It balances midfoot hold with useful toe room. Check toe clearance, heel hold, pressure over the instep, natural foot expansion during exercise and the thickness of the socks normally used for running.
Laboratory data: what it adds
RunRepeat measured a 33.0 mm heel, a 26.7 mm forefoot and a 6.3 mm real drop. Its tested pair weighed 220 g, a figure linked to its tested size and version rather than directly comparable with the 177 g claimed for some women references. Heel energy return was measured at around 59.8%, slightly above the panel average, and the shoe needed only 11.7 N to bend to 30°, confirming its flexible character.
The upper is deliberately light. Independent abrasion testing found limited durability at the toe area, which is the usual compromise for a shoe designed to stay very light.
Tripp Sport technical opinion
The Rebel v5 is not only a fast shoe. Its strength is making running feel lighter and more lively without imposing carbon-plate rigidity. We especially recommend it to runners seeking a dynamic second pair, a light road shoe for cadence work, or a versatile option between comfort and responsiveness.
Pink Lemonade / Pink Salt, reference WFCX49I, is available at Tripp Sport in sizes 38 to 41.5, subject to remaining stock.
See available sizes and order the New Balance Rebel v5 women
Sources and methodology
Manufacturer specifications come from New Balance. Independent measurements are from the RunRepeat laboratory protocol. Tripp Sport provides the interpretation and running recommendations.