Designed to be a fun, fast, speed trainer, the Rebel has become a very popular New Balance trainer over the last 4 years. It has always been an affordable price, has always been widely available and has always had an engaging ride with plenty of energy return.

The Rebel v5 is a small evolution of the Rebel v4 but there are some significant changes that you should be aware of. This comparison will tell you which version is better for you.

Both of these Rebel versions have FuelCell midsoles made of a PEBA and EVA blend. They have soft rides, padded rides with good energy return. The main difference between these two midsole is that the Rebel v5 has a slightly softer ride with more cushioning.

The Rebel v5 has 5 mm more foam in both the heel and the forefoot. This gives it more cushioning depth and makes it better for long runs that exceed 30 kilometres. The Rebel v4 on the other hand feels firmer and faster. It’s better for shorter, faster runs. V4 feels a bit more snappy than v5. V4 is also lighter than v5 thank to its thinner midsole.

It’s worth noting that the Rebel doesn’t have any plate or stiffener in its midsole. This makes it feel slower and more relaxed than other speed trainers with a stiffener. Your feet have to work harder when picking up the pace because there is less resistance in the midsole of the Rebel.

If you need more stability, the Rebel v4 is better for you. It has a wider base and it has the firmer midsole with less lean bias. Your feet sit closer to the ground in v4, so foot strikes feel more planted in v4.

When it comes to outsole durability, v4 has better durability. It has a longer rubber strip on the outer lateral heel area, so there’s more protection if you’re a heel striker. It also has the firmer midsole foam, so there is more resistance to scuffing from rough surfaces. Traction is decent in both versions.

Version 5 has a better, more comfortable upper than version 4. They are made of the same thin, breathable material but the v5 has a better fitting upper which provides better foot lockdown. Version 4 is too accommodating and too spacious inside.

The other difference is that v5 has tongue padding and more heel padding which makes it more comfortable. This padding makes a difference during long runs. The upper of v5 makes it feel like a daily trainer whereas the upper of v4 feels like a speed trainer.

Both versions fit true to size but if you have really wide feet, v4 will fit you better. If you have normal or narrow feet, v5 will fit you better.

If you use the Rebel for fast running, version 4 is the better shoe for you. It feels firmer, more nimble and faster. It has better stability and it has a more durable outsole than v5. V4 is better for short and fast runs. You should also get v4 if you have wide feet and you need the extra room inside the shoe.

If you use the Rebel for daily training, version 5 is the better shoe for you. It feels softer and more comfortable so it’s better for long, slow runs. V5 has deeper cushioning which makes it more protective for your feet and legs. If you have narrow of low-volume feet, v5 will also be the better shoe for you.