New Balance SC Rebel v1

The New Balance SC Rebel is a super trainer designed for speed over long miles. Priced at $200, it competes with models like the Topo Specter 3 ($170) and the Puma Deviate Nitro 4 ($170). This new model is replacing the SC Trainer and features a new Infinion blend foam that is not the same Infinion used in the 1080v15 or the SC Elite v6. It features a carbon-infused nylon plate that scoops down very low in the forefoot, just above the rubber outsole. It weighs in less than the Evo SL with a higher stack of foam. The step-in feel is very nice, with a fluffy, soft, and light foam feel reminiscent of the ZoomX PEBA foam in the Alphafly and Vaporfly 2 and 3. The upper is somewhere between a minimalist race shoe upper and a super plush daily trainer feel. One note about the fit is that it is very narrow through the midfoot and forefoot and feels low-volume, so if you have a wider foot or a high volume foot, it is likely not going to fit well. Unlike the popular, unplated super trainers on the market, such as the Adidas Hyperboost Edge, Topo Specter 3 and R.A.D UFO, the foam has a very airy feel to it, whereas those others have a very dense feeling to them. Out on the run we found that the foam has a lot of compression, but it bounces back quickly and it has a nice rocker that gives you that quick turnover feel. This is the best trainer New Balance has made in a long time. It is comfortable, yet speedy, soft, light, and it has a really smooth geometry. If you are looking for a soft and bouncy daily trainer that feels good for picking up the pace, the SC Rebel is a really fun choice.