New Balance FuelCell Rebel v3

We got into the New Balance Fuelcell Rebel V3, and I'm particularly making my debut in the asphalt shoe category of this iconic brand. I'm familiar with the trail range and I was eager to try the brand on asphalt. And as expected, they have lived up to expectations. Once again New Balance does not disappoint.

I consider myself a popular runner and I train for what they call "by sensations", which does not mean that within what I consider the most important thing, enjoyment, this type of runners like to improve our times, look at the clock after training and see that that day we have gone out. That is precisely what I have experienced with this shoe.

Ideal type of runner for the New Balance Fuelcell Rebel v3

The Rebel V3 is aimed at runners in their daily workouts, both light and long runs, but above all it will surprise you in series or intervallic workouts. It is said that it is focused on competition but I assure you that you will enjoy it in your daily workouts. As for the weight of the runner in which they best fit, we could say that it is for those of medium / light weight.

I think they could be recommended for short and medium distances, up to half marathon, and ideal to achieve paces of around 4'30'/km.

When we were introduced to them, my first impression was WOW! What a Ferrari for me! The first thing we see is a slim design, light and smooth lines, no seams. When we take it we notice how light it is, and that is striking because after having read about its characteristics (that they had widened the base of the midsole to stabilize the tread more) we could think that they were heavier.

The next sensation, when you put them on: they keep getting bigger. The fit is perfect, it adapts to the foot even narrow, without pressure anywhere. I imagine this is due to the upper and tongue, both super thin. The mesh upper is very breathable, and the sensation of heat in the foot that we may have after running on asphalt for several kilometers or on hot days is mitigated by this ventilation. As for the tongue, it is attached to the upper fabric but we do not feel any seam or friction for it at any time. all this contributes to the feeling of perfect fit and support. For the moment everything is positive, good sensations, and we haven't even started to burn the sole yet!

Another thing you will also notice as soon as you put them on, is that they invite you to step in a certain way, favoring the midfoot (metatarsal), no heel strike, they won't let you do it! And this also helps stabilize the stride of this neutral shoe. This sensation together with the cushioning and rebound that I have appreciated, due to the FuellCell foam, will make your legs fly, or at least, you will have that sensation. I, after a few workouts, have been able to verify it by comparing the paces. I have used them in my daily workouts at a distance of 10-15 km and light paces of 5'10''/km, and I have noticed greater speed. I've noticed that you can go at the usual gentle pace and also accelerate, and thus experience good sensations, which after all is what many "popular runners" want: to enjoy, have fun and improve; because the truth, they are like an injection of energy, you end up going faster.

Possible points for improvement

It is a fast shoe for quality workouts, if I had to make a wish for the next New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 it would be a little more support and stability.

Who are the rivals of the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v3?

If we want to compare them with other models, it would be the following:

• ASICS Dynablast v3
• Saucony Kinvara 13
• Adidas Adizero SL
• Under Armour Velociti Wind 2

• Hoka Rincon 3

Conclusion

As a final conclusion, the New Balance Fuelcell Rebel V3 is a super light and reactive neutral shoe without carbon plate, for short and medium distances and for runners who want to refine their stride, achieving paces under 4'30'/km.

RUNNEA tester's rating:

• Lightness: 9
• Responsiveness: 10
• Cushioning: 8
• Stability: 7
• Flexibility: 9
• Grip: 7