New Balance Rebel v5

The New Balance Rebel v5 is an everyday running shoe built to deliver both speed and comfort. Priced at $140, it competes with other lightweight trainers like the ASICS Novablast 5 ($150) and Adidas EVO SL ($150). It’s designed as a speedier daily option—no plate, no gimmicks, just simple, efficient performance. The Rebel v3 was one of our all-time favorite shoes: flexible, comfortable, and minimal, with a TPU/EVA midsole that felt great underfoot. Version 4 introduced an EVA/PEBA blend that, while lightweight, felt a bit flat and bland. It also had an odd fit and the foam didn't hold up well to high mileage. The Rebel v5 is about 10% heavier than v4, thanks to more padding on the tongue and heel, increased stack height (+5 mm), and additional outsole rubber. The fit is roomy with a plush step-in feel, leaning more into daily trainer territory than the aggressive rocker and stripped-down feel of previous versions. It’s sturdy, stable, has a breathable mesh upper, and offers a secure midfoot lockdown—making it a great foil to the Adidas EVO SL. The ride is noticeably softer than v4, with added bounce. The foam compresses a lot, which gives a bit of ground feel and a thinner sensation in the forefoot. We wouldn’t recommend it as a long-run shoe, but at faster paces, the Rebel v5 feels more responsive than at slower paces. If you’re looking for a soft, flexible, and lightweight daily trainer with a comfortable fit and some speed capabilities, the Rebel v5 is a solid option.