The running shoe market sees new releases every year, but few make as significant an impact as the New Balance Rebel v4. This lightweight performance trainer has quickly established itself as one of the most versatile and value-packed options of 2024.
Combining a responsive PEBA-infused midsole with a wider, more stable platform than its predecessors, the Rebel v4 delivers a unique blend of speed, comfort, and stability at a reasonable price point.
Whether you are a casual jogger looking for a daily trainer or a serious athlete seeking a non-plated racing alternative, the Rebel v4 offers performance features that make every stride more enjoyable.
Key Takeaways
- Lightweight Performance: The New Balance Rebel v4 weighs just 7.4 oz (210g) for men’s size 9, making it one of the lightest trainers in its category despite its cushioning.
- New Midsole Technology: The updated midsole uses a blend of 20% PEBA and 80% EVA that delivers enhanced energy return without sacrificing durability.
- Improved Stability: The Rebel v4 features a significantly wider base than previous models, with the midfoot width increasing from 110.3mm to 124.7mm and heel width expanding by 25%.
- Comfortable Fit: The wider forefoot and roomier toebox accommodate more foot types while maintaining a secure midfoot and heel fit.
- Versatile Performance: This shoe handles everything from easy jogs to tempo runs and races, making it suitable for daily training and competition.
- Price Value: At $140, it offers exceptional value compared to similar performance shoes that often exceed $160-180.
- Moderate Stack Height: With a 34mm heel and 28mm forefoot (6mm drop), it provides cushioning without feeling disconnected from the ground.
- No Carbon Plate: The absence of a rigid plate means a more natural feel that some runners prefer, especially for training.
- Rocker Geometry: The heel bevel and forefoot rocker create a smooth transition despite the flexible forefoot.
- Some Drawbacks: The exposed midsole wears quickly on rough surfaces, and the thin upper may lack durability in high-stress areas.
What Is the New Balance Rebel v4?
The New Balance Rebel v4 represents the fourth generation of the company’s lightweight performance trainer lineup. The Rebel series has always focused on delivering a responsive, nimble ride while maintaining enough cushioning for longer runs.
The Rebel v4 takes this concept further by incorporating New Balance’s latest FuelCell foam technology. This version uses a PEBA-infused FuelCell midsole that provides more bounce and energy return than previous EVA-only versions. The addition of PEBA, the same material used in many super shoes, gives the Rebel v4 a more lively feel without the stiffness of a carbon plate.
At its core, the Rebel v4 is designed for runners who want a versatile, lightweight shoe that can handle different paces and distances. It bridges the gap between daily trainers and racing shoes, offering enough cushioning for everyday use while remaining responsive enough for faster efforts.
Design and Construction
The design of the New Balance Rebel v4 showcases a thoughtful approach to creating a versatile running shoe. The silhouette maintains a low-profile look despite the moderate stack height, with streamlined aesthetics that signal its performance orientation.
The upper uses New Balance’s FantomFit construction, an engineered mesh material that provides targeted support while keeping weight to a minimum. This thin, translucent mesh offers excellent breathability and adapts well to different foot shapes. The upper is wider than previous Rebel models, particularly in the forefoot area, addressing complaints about the narrow fit of earlier versions.
The midsole, the star component of the Rebel v4, uses New Balance’s FuelCell foam enhanced with PEBA materials. This combination creates a soft yet responsive foundation that feels cushioned at slow speeds but comes alive when you pick up the pace. The stack height measures 34mm at the heel and 28mm at the forefoot, providing substantial cushioning without excessive height.
The outsole features strategically placed rubber pads that cover high-wear areas while leaving some sections of exposed foam to reduce weight. This design choice helps maintain the lightweight feel but may impact long-term durability on rougher surfaces.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is where the New Balance Rebel v4 truly shines for many runners. The wider last and roomier toebox accommodate a broader range of foot shapes and sizes compared to previous models. This change is immediately noticeable from the first step, with more space for toe splay and natural foot movement.
The shoe fits true to size for most wearers, though some reviewers note it runs slightly short in length due to the pronounced toe spring. The extra width in the forefoot prevents this from being an issue for most runners.
The heel counter is semi-rigid and provides moderate structure without excessive stiffness. It includes a modest amount of padding, though some runners with sensitive heels may find it insufficient for complete comfort. The tongue is thin and gusseted, staying in place well during runs while contributing to the overall lightweight feel.
One important consideration is the lockdown for narrow-footed runners. The wider platform can create some security issues for those with slimmer feet, potentially requiring heel-lock lacing techniques to prevent slippage. Those with wider feet, however, will likely celebrate the Rebel v4 as one of the more accommodating performance shoes on the market.
Performance on Different Terrains
The New Balance Rebel v4 performs best on road surfaces, where its responsive midsole and rubber outsole strips provide good traction and a lively ride. The shoe handles smooth pavements with ease and offers enough grip for wet conditions.
On light trails and packed dirt paths, the Rebel v4 holds its own reasonably well. The outsole rubber provides adequate traction for non-technical terrain, though the exposed midsole sections are vulnerable to wear and damage from rocks and roots. This is definitely not a trail shoe, but it can handle brief off-road sections during primarily road-based runs.
For track workouts, the Rebel v4 offers a good balance of cushioning and responsiveness. It is not as snappy as dedicated track spikes or racing flats, but its lightweight construction and responsive foam make it suitable for interval training.
Indoor treadmill running is another strong suit for the Rebel v4. Its lightweight design and cushioned ride make it comfortable for extended treadmill sessions without the bulk of heavier daily trainers.
One terrain limitation is rough, uneven surfaces where the exposed midsole foam can wear quickly. The shoe lacks the protection and durability needed for regular running on gravel roads or technical trails.
Running Experience for Different Types of Runners
The versatility of the New Balance Rebel v4 makes it suitable for a wide range of runners, though individual experiences vary based on running style and preferences.
For beginner runners, the Rebel v4 offers a lightweight, accessible ride that doesn’t overwhelm with excessive features. The cushioning protects against impact while the responsive feel helps develop good running form. The stable platform also provides confidence for those still finding their stride.
Intermediate runners will appreciate the shoe’s versatility for different workouts. The Rebel v4 transitions smoothly from easy recovery runs to tempo efforts, making it a great option for those who want a single shoe that can handle various training sessions.
Advanced runners and competitive athletes might view the Rebel v4 as an excellent daily trainer or workout shoe that complements their racing footwear. Many find it particularly valuable as a lighter alternative for speed workouts when they don’t want the aggressive feel of a plated super shoe.
Heavier runners benefit from the wider platform and stable base, though some may find the cushioning compresses more under additional weight. The PEBA component helps resist bottoming out better than previous versions.
Runners with wider feet will likely find the Rebel v4 one of the more accommodating performance shoes available, with ample room in the forefoot for natural toe spread and comfort over longer distances.
Advantages of the New Balance Rebel v4
The New Balance Rebel v4 offers several standout advantages that make it a compelling choice in the crowded running shoe market.
Exceptional weight-to-cushion ratio is perhaps its most impressive attribute. Weighing just 7.4 ounces (men’s size 9), the Rebel v4 provides substantial cushioning that would typically add significant weight. This light feel contributes to faster turnover and reduced fatigue over longer distances.
The wider platform brings improved stability without added weight or motion control features. This inherent stability benefits a variety of runners, especially those who previously found the Rebel line too narrow or unstable.
PEBA-infused FuelCell foam delivers a more energetic ride than traditional EVA foams. This responsive cushioning feels softer when landing but firms up during toe-off, creating an efficient energy transfer that helps maintain pace with less effort.
The versatile performance across different speeds and distances makes the Rebel v4 a strong contender for a “do-it-all” shoe in many runners’ rotations. From easy recovery days to tempo runs and even racing for those who prefer non-plated options, it handles varied workloads impressively.
The $140 price point represents exceptional value in today’s market where comparable performance shoes often exceed $160-180. This accessibility makes high-performance features available to more runners.
The breathable upper promotes excellent airflow, keeping feet cool and comfortable even during hot weather running. The thin, adaptable material accommodates foot swelling during longer efforts without creating hot spots or irritation.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
Despite its many strengths, the New Balance Rebel v4 has some limitations worth considering before purchase.
Durability concerns exist primarily around the exposed midsole foam and thin upper mesh. The outsole rubber covers only specific areas, leaving sections of midsole exposed to abrasion. Heavy wear patterns appear quickly on these sections, potentially shortening the shoe’s lifespan for runners with certain stride patterns.
Lockdown issues may affect runners with narrow feet, particularly in the midfoot area. The wider platform that benefits many runners can create security challenges for those with slimmer foot profiles, requiring additional lacing techniques to prevent in-shoe movement.
The insole sometimes folds upon itself, especially when wearing socks with grip features or removing feet from the shoes. This minor annoyance requires readjustment before putting the shoes back on.
The aggressive toe spring creates a slightly short feeling for some runners, though the wider forefoot generally compensates for this sensation. Still, it may create pressure on the longest toe for certain foot shapes.
Midfoot strikers may experience instability due to the transition geometry, which works best for heel strikers. Some midfoot landers report a backward rocking sensation at the moment of impact, creating an awkward transition.
The thin tongue and minimal heel padding may not provide enough cushioning for runners with sensitive feet, potentially creating pressure points during longer runs if not paired with appropriate socks.
How the Rebel v4 Compares to Previous Versions
The New Balance Rebel v4 represents a significant evolution from its predecessors, with several key changes that transform the running experience.
Compared to the Rebel v3, the v4 introduces a substantially wider platform. The midfoot width increases from 110.3mm to 124.7mm, while the heel expands by 25% from 81.5mm to 101.5mm. This wider base creates a more stable ride that benefits a broader range of runners.
The midsole composition shifts from pure EVA-based FuelCell to a blend containing 20% PEBA foam. This addition creates a more responsive, bouncy sensation while maintaining the cushioned feel the Rebel line is known for. The result is improved energy return without sacrificing comfort.
The fit profile changes dramatically, with a much roomier toebox and wider forefoot than the notably narrow v3. This addresses one of the most common complaints about previous Rebel models and makes the shoe accessible to more runners.
The geometric profile introduces more pronounced rocker shapes in both the heel and forefoot, moving away from the flatter design of earlier versions. This curved shape promotes smoother transitions through the gait cycle.
The upper material continues to use an engineered mesh but with a more structured design providing better foot containment while maintaining the lightweight feel. The v4 adds strategically placed reinforcements to address durability concerns from previous models.
The stack height increases slightly by approximately 3mm, offering a bit more cushioning underfoot without dramatically changing the shoe’s character or significantly increasing weight.
Training and Racing Applications
The versatility of the New Balance Rebel v4 makes it suitable for various training scenarios and even racing for many runners.
For daily training, the Rebel v4 shines as a lightweight option that provides enough cushioning for regular mileage without the bulk of traditional daily trainers. Its responsive midsole makes even routine runs feel engaging, while the cushioning protects against cumulative impact stress.
During tempo runs and threshold workouts, the Rebel v4’s responsive nature becomes more apparent. The PEBA-infused foam provides excellent energy return when picking up the pace, making it easier to maintain faster speeds without the aggressive feel of a plated shoe.
For interval training, the lightweight design facilitates quick turnover while the cushioning softens the landing between high-intensity efforts. The shoe transitions well between recovery jogs and faster segments, making it ideal for varied workouts.
As a long run shoe, the Rebel v4 offers sufficient cushioning for most runners through distances up to and including the marathon. The wider platform helps maintain stability as fatigue sets in during later miles.
For racing, the Rebel v4 presents an excellent option for runners who prefer a non-plated experience or find super shoes too aggressive. It performs particularly well at distances from 10K to the marathon, where its balance of weight and cushioning proves advantageous.
Maintenance and Durability Expectations
Managing expectations around durability and properly maintaining the New Balance Rebel v4 will help maximize its lifespan and performance.
The expected mileage for the Rebel v4 falls in the average range for lightweight performance trainers, typically 300-400 miles for most runners. Heavier runners or those with wear-inducing stride patterns may see this reduced to 250-300 miles, particularly in the exposed midsole sections.
Outsole wear appears first on the exposed FuelCell foam between the rubber strips. This wear doesn’t immediately affect performance but progresses faster than the rubber-covered areas. The rubber itself shows good durability with minimal wear even after significant mileage.
The upper durability represents a potential weakness, with the thin mesh vulnerable to tears or abrasion, particularly in the toebox area. The material balances weight savings against longevity, with some early reviews noting wear in high-flex areas after relatively low mileage.
Maintaining cushioning properties happens naturally with the PEBA component in the midsole, which tends to retain its responsive characteristics longer than pure EVA foams. Many runners report the shoe actually improves after the first 50-75 miles as the foam breaks in to match their stride pattern.
Cleaning recommendations include air drying away from direct heat sources and removing the insole after wet runs to prevent odor development. Hand washing with mild soap is preferable to machine washing to preserve the structural integrity of the lightweight materials.
Value Proposition and Price Considerations
The New Balance Rebel v4 presents a compelling value proposition in today’s premium running shoe market, positioning itself as an affordable performance option.
At $140 retail, the Rebel v4’s price point sits significantly below many comparable performance trainers that often range from $160-180. This pricing strategy makes high-performance features accessible to more runners without sacrificing quality or technology.
The cost-per-mile ratio proves favorable when considering the expected lifespan of 300-400 miles for most runners. This translates to approximately $0.35-0.47 per mile, representing good value compared to more expensive options with similar durability profiles.
When compared to super shoes that typically cost $200-250 but offer specialized racing benefits, the Rebel v4 presents a versatile alternative that covers more training scenarios at a substantially lower price point.
The technology-to-price ratio is particularly impressive, with the PEBA-infused FuelCell midsole delivering energy return properties similar to more expensive models. This advanced foam technology typically appears in shoes costing significantly more.
For budget-conscious runners seeking a single shoe to handle most of their training needs, the Rebel v4 represents an excellent investment that performs across various paces and distances without specializing too narrowly in any single application.
Final Verdict on the New Balance Rebel v4
The New Balance Rebel v4 emerges as one of the standout running shoes of 2024, delivering exceptional performance across various metrics while maintaining an accessible price point.
For runners seeking a versatile, lightweight trainer that can handle daily miles and faster efforts alike, the Rebel v4 offers remarkable value. The PEBA-infused FuelCell midsole provides responsive cushioning that feels comfortable at easy paces but comes alive when pushing the pace.
The wider platform and improved stability address key limitations of previous Rebel models, making the v4 accessible to more runners without sacrificing the nimble, fun ride that defined the line. This balance of stability and responsiveness sets it apart from many competitors.
While not without minor drawbacks in durability and fit for certain foot types, these limitations are reasonable trade-offs for the performance benefits and price value the shoe delivers. The exposed midsole sections wear more quickly than fully-covered outsoles, but the overall performance remains consistent through the shoe’s lifespan.
For most runners, the Rebel v4 earns a strong recommendation as either a daily trainer capable of handling varied workouts or as a complement to more specialized shoes in a rotation. Its versatility and performance-to-price ratio make it one of the most compelling options in the current market.
The New Balance Rebel v4 demonstrates that advanced performance features need not come with premium price tags, delivering a responsive, lightweight, and comfortable ride that will satisfy runners across experience levels and preferences.
FAQs
Is the New Balance Rebel v4 good for beginners?
Yes. The Rebel v4 offers lightweight cushioning and stability that works well for new runners.
What is the weight of the New Balance Rebel v4?
Men’s size 9 weighs 7.4 oz (210g), women’s size 8 weighs 6.3 oz (179g).
Does the Rebel v4 have a carbon plate?
No. The Rebel v4 uses a responsive foam without a plate for a more natural feel.
How does the Rebel v4 fit compared to other New Balance shoes?
It fits true to size but wider in the forefoot than previous Rebel models.
What is the stack height of the New Balance Rebel v4?
34mm in the heel and 28mm in the forefoot, with a 6mm drop.
Is the Rebel v4 suitable for wide feet?
Yes. The v4 features a significantly wider platform than previous versions.
How does the Rebel v4 compare to the Rebel v3?
The v4 has a wider platform, PEBA-infused foam, and improved stability.
Can the Rebel v4 be used for marathon training?
Yes. It provides enough cushioning for long runs while remaining lightweight.
What type of runner is the Rebel v4 best for?
It works well for neutral runners seeking a versatile, responsive daily trainer.
How long will the New Balance Rebel v4 last?
Most runners can expect 300-400 miles of use before significant performance decline.
