Grading the New Balance SC Rebel v1

New Balance is back with one of its best training midsoles yet. The SC Rebel v1 delivers a soft, energetic ride with a smooth rocker, comfortable step-in feel, and a clean design. The upper runs a bit narrow, but overall this is a seriously impressive super trainer that earns a Banger rating.

Midsole—A+

New Balance is back at the top of their game, offering what is arguably their best training midsole ever. This version of Infinion reminds us of the best iterations of ZoomX foam. It's fluffy, compressive, soft and energetic. The geometry is also excellent, delivering generous heel stack and a smooth rocker.

Upper—B

The SC Rebel v1 has a narrow forefoot and midfoot, as well as a relatively low volume fit compared to other New Balance shoes. If you have a wider foot or a high arch, this shoe will not be very comfortable for you.

Outsole—A-

The outsole features a good rubber compound and traction pattern, but we’re seeing wear on the plate after a few runs due to the plate scooping so low and the foam being so soft and compliant.

Speed Training

New Balance SC Rebel v1

Super trainer designed for speed over long miles

Price

$200

Plated?

Yes

Foam

ATPU Blend

Weight (oz)

7.7

Drop (mm)

4

Support

Neutral

see details

Step-in Comfort—A

While the SC Rebel v1 is less stacked than other super trainers, the soft Infinion midsole provides a very comfortable feel underfoot.

Design—A+

We are loving the clean design aesthetic that blends modern and retro elements. New Balance incorporated TPU upper overlays for a nostalgic look.

First Run Review Summary

We are really glad that we got the chance to review this shoe. We were slightly disappointed by New Balance's new Infinion foam that was featured in the 1080v15, despite the fact that we absolutely loved the insanely soft and comfortable 1080v13. We were also hoping for more out of the new Ellipse v1, which just turned out to be a lifeless, very mid shoe that lacked any pep and pop. But then New Balance dropped the last version of their marathon racer, the SC Elite v6, and we were excited to see that they built on the success and love of the SC Elite v5 by Hobby Jogger nation. The SC Elite v6 also uses the Infinion foam, but probably a slightly different version than the one used in the SC Rebel v1. In the SC Rebel v1, the Infinion is an ATPU foam and there is a carbon-infused plate that scoops low in the forefoot, providing a somewhat aggressive and speedy feeling. We really enjoyed it on the run as an uptempo daily trainer and could see it being a very versatile shoe that would be fast enough for workouts. It's light, bouncy, and fun. The SC Rebel v1 is definitely New Balance's best training shoe that they've produced in a long time!

For Yowana's full-length first run review in the SC Rebel v1, check out the Supwell YouTube channel here:

Supwell Shoe Matcher

Whether you're looking for a reliable easy run shoe, pampering comfort on recovery days, a long-run cruiser, or a race day weapon, check out our Shoe Matcher tool to get matched. We've done the extensive testing, so you don't have to.