Performance

Lightness
8
Cushioning
8
Flexibility
8
Responsive
9
Stability
8
Grip
8

Details of Fuelcell Propel v4

Gender Men , Women
Men weight 302 gr
Women weight 229 gr
Drop 6 mm
Cushion Neutral
Runner weight Light , Medium
Running gait Neutral
Surface Road
Use training , Racing
Pace Medium , High
Strike heel
Distance Short , 10K , Half-marathon
Eco-friendly Recycled material
Colour Yellow , Blue , White , Grey , Purple , Black , Green
Year 2023

If there is a New Balance shoe that has gone unnoticed by the media or social networks, but has nevertheless been a success among the public, it has been the New Balance Fuelcell Propel. Now comes the fourth version, the New Balance Fuelcell Propel v4, a shoe concept that we could define as a speed entry or mixed running shoe. Ideal for quality training at a variety of paces, without losing the essence of the American brand and comfort in running. And also with an excellent value for money.

New New Balance Fuelcell Propel v4

The designers of the American company have decided to completely renew the model of these running shoes. And the change is so radical that they have even added a TPU plate, not a carbon plate, but it will give you a plus in the momentum of the stride and above all stability and protection of the footprint in the race. The plate is accompanied by its FuelCell foam with densities that make this foam expands (due to its low density) to work together with the plate and offer very good feelings of comfort without losing stability.

It is therefore a faster shoe, also more cushioned and with greater foot support. With padded areas around the ankle that wrap the foot very well and provide that extra security in the race.

Ideal runner type for the New Balance Fuelcell Propel v4

Runners of average weight up to 80-82 kg maximum looking for a training shoe for training at fast paces for series, changes of pace or even daily runs at paces under 5 minutes per kilometer. For distances from a 10k to a half marathon. A very good shoe to combine with other models of maximum cushioning and more rolling. Also ideal for runners who still do not dare with the carbon plate and want to test sensations with a TPU plate that offers a behavior that resembles carbon.

What is TPU?

The TPU is a type of plastic but with qualities in terms of versatility that allows you to adapt the hardness based on the needs. The TPU can be soft like rubber or hard like rigid plastics.

Review of New Balance Fuelcell Propel v4

31 October 2024

New Balance FuelCell Propel v4, a recommended option as a single shoe for different types of training

I return to the path of products reviews for runners, and thanks to the staff of RUNNEA I have had the opportunity to wear one of the latest releases of a top brand such as New Balance: the versatile and dynamic New Balance FuelCell Propel v4

Below I will tell you everything that I have transmitted these running shoes New Balance FuelCell Propel v4, but I already tell you that I liked them, that their sensations are satisfactory, and the final grade is high, of high note.

First impressions of the New Balance FuelCell Propel v4

It is a lightweight shoe that gives you a very good feeling from the first time you put it on. It adapts to the foot, you can notice that it has a soft cushioning as soon as you start running with them and it also has that effect that I like so much in this type of mixed running shoes: that propulsion that always comes in handy when you want to get into the rhythm of your workouts, and even when in a long run you already feel tired, knowing how to take advantage of that extra boost in each stride can make your workouts more dynamic.

At least that's something I look for when I go running, and if you're not into having different shoes depending on the type of training I think this New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 can be a good option.

I usually use shoes with less cushioning. So when I tried this model I was not sure if I was going to feel comfortable with them, and I must admit that I have taken advantage of them in short and medium series, training on slopes and some runs at lighter paces. I don't rule out testing these New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 in some 10k and in some half marathon.

What kind of runners are the New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 for?

Runners looking for an all-around training shoes. Pace is another story, in my case I'll tell you that under 4:40 min/km. they have been great and in longer runs you forget you're wearing them, I love that!

I'm a neutral runner with medium to low weight. Evidently it is an asphalt shoe with good grip. This last detail is another point in its favor if you live in a rainy area, as in my case.

As for the recommended distances, from my point of view this fourth version of the New Balance Propel is a perfect option for short and medium distances on asphalt.

What we liked most about the New Balance FuelCell Propel v4

In terms of features and performance, without a doubt, what I liked most about these FuelCell Propel v4 from New Balance is their balance between soft cushioning and propulsion.

I would also like to add a personal note such as the design and colorway of the shoe, which I simply loved.

Going back to the strong points, in addition to that cushioning and responsiveness, we should also add that this is a model that offers optimal grip on asphalt. In addition, its weight offers a really light performance. Its 229 grams contribute to that feeling of lightness when running.

Opportunities for improvement in the New Balance FuelCell Propel v4

Without leaving the personal facet, to me, the upper of these FuelCell Propel v4 is not pleasant to me this kind of net/mesh type materials. It is true that for running in high temperatures they can be cooler than others, but I like other fabrics more flexible and softer to the touch.

I also think that the tongue could be a bit lighter, being another point of improvement. A section that would make the shoe.

With which models can we compare the New Balance FuelCell Propel v4?

Final Conclusions on the New Balance FuelCell Propel v4

I reiterate my words, if you are looking for a single running shoe for different types of training, with these renewed New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 on your feet, you will get it right.

Remember that we are talking about a mixed running shoe for neutral runners, medium to light weight, and that they are capable of adapting to short and medium distances without major problems.

RUNNEA tester's rating

  • Lightweight: 8.
  • Responsiveness: 9
  • Cushioning: 10.
  • Stability: 8.
  • Flexibility: 8.
  • Grip: 8.

Pros

  • Soft cushioning
  • Propulsion
  • Design and color

Cons

  • Tongue should be lighter
  • Upper fabric
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