New Balance Trainers – Rebel V4

RRP	£140
Manufacturer	New Balance
Weight	212g
Materials	Carbon rubber, Synthetic/mesh upper
Style	Neutral

For some time, I have had New Balance on my radar, mainly due to recommendations from mates who mention the comfort and support New Balance offers. As a runner who has experienced their fair share of injuries, I’ve often wondered if trainers might have been an issue. (Hindsight is a bitch, I know!). With this in mind, I was eager to see what all the fuss was about.

New Balance; with their Elite, Pacer, and SuperComp trainers, have launched a three-pronged attack on the sports trainer market. Their unified look, updated midsole foam, and distinctive angular profile suggest they’re making a strong statement, with the Rebel V4 joining the party, competitors, watch out!

This year’s refresh of the Rebel felt like a significant step forward, featuring a revamped upper, an enhanced foam blend, and a more aggressive overall design. After taking them for a spin over various workout types, including; tempo runs, easy jogs, mixed-pace sessions, and generic gym workouts, I found the Rebel V4 to be a reliable and versatile performer with no major issues.

The lightweight, breathable mesh upper, combined with New Balance’s FANTOMFIT and a gusseted tongue, felt comfortable and offered just the right amount of support. The updated lacing system and tongue design worked well together, ensuring a secure and snug fit. Although the gusseted tongue could have, arguably, used a touch more padding, it was a minor gripe in an otherwise solid design.

One of the standout features was the introduction of a PEBA/EVA blend into the FuelCell foam. With a 6mm drop and a total stack height of 300mm/24mm, the midsole provided immediate comfort and responsiveness. While I personally would have appreciated a bit more midsole in the heel, the generous cushioning in the midfoot gave a feeling of forward momentum with each step. Combined with the wider platform, this offered impressive stability without compromising on weight.

As a pronate runner, I tend to wear out the heel and inner sides of my shoes relatively quickly, so the durability of the outsole is always a key consideration for me. The Rebel V4’s outsole, although thin, felt sturdy with its five-piece configuration, delivering reliable traction in both wet and dry conditions. After logging around 50 miles, I noticed some wear on the heels, which seemed reasonable for that distance.

It’s always satisfying when recommendations prove correct, and New Balance does appear to be a great brand with the Rebel V4 being an excellent pair of trainers. If you’re looking for a versatile running shoe that can handle a variety of workouts, providing comfort and durability, then this model could be a great fit. The price may seem a bit steep, but you’re paying for quality. On a different note, they’re pretty cool to look at, so if you’re just looking for a pair of casual trainers go for it!