New Balance fuelcell propel v5

Learn more about the New Balance fuelcell propel v5 male running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

New Balance fuelcell propel v5

Price

$200

Rating

Average

Popularity

Less Popular

The New Balance FuelCell Propel V5 is a versatile, lightweight running shoe designed for responsive cushioning and speed, positioned as a more affordable and less feature-rich alternative to the premium FuelCell RC Elite within the New Balance lineup.

4 colorways

Colorway: Quartz grey with angora and black

Widths available: normal

Summary

The New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 is a versatile running shoe designed for runners seeking lightweight performance and comfort. It features New Balance's FuelCell foam, which provides a responsive and energetic ride, making it suitable for daily training and speedwork. The upper is constructed with breathable materials for ventilation and a snug fit. Compared to other models in New Balance's lineup, the FuelCell Propel v5 sits below the more premium FuelCell TC and RC series, which are focused on achieving maximum speed for competitive runners. It offers a budget-friendly alternative while still incorporating advanced technology, bridging the gap between entry-level and high-performance running shoes in New Balance's diverse range of options.

Surface

road

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(34mm)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(Fit Weave upper)

Weight

280g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

6mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal, wide

Grip

LowMediumHighMax

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the New Balance fuelcell propel v5 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 18 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 is widely recognized for its exceptional comfort, soft cushioning, and affordability, making it a solid choice for daily training and long runs. However, it has limitations in responsiveness and versatility for speed work, and some users have reported sizing issues and durability concerns..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Soft

The main points to note are that the shoe's cushioning is frequently praised for its comfort and softness, but it is also criticized for being too soft and sluggish during faster runs, which may not be ideal for high-intensity training.

softness (3)

cushioning (2)

comfort (1)

long runs (1)

support (1)

balanced (1)

balance (1)

heel softness (1)

Pros

"The FuelCell midsole provides a highly cushioned and comfortable ride."

cushioned

comfortable

ride quality

"The shoe features an exceptionally plush FuelCell midsole that enhances comfort during runs."

cushioning

comfort

"The shoe's midsole is soft, making it comfortable for easy runs."

comfort

easy runs

"The shoe features a soft midsole made from the updated Fuel Cell foam that provides excellent cushioning and responsiveness."

cushioning

responsive

comfort

"The Fuel Cell midsole is soft and cushy, contributing to overall comfort during runs."

cushioning

comfort

soft

"The FuelCell foam provides improved cushioning for comfort during runs."

cushioning

energy return

"The shoe is well-cushioned, making it suitable for long runs."

cushioning

long distance

"The FuelCell midsole provides ample cushioning, making it comfortable for long runs."

cushioning

comfort

long runs

"The Fuel Cell Propel V5 offers a balanced ride with good cushioning for daily runs."

cushioning

versatility

"It has a well-balanced cushioning that combines softness and support."

softness

bounce

heel

"The heel section of the midsole is soft, contributing to overall comfort."

cushioning

comfort

"The midsole includes additional squish which is uncommon for a shoe at this price point, enhancing comfort significantly."

forefoot cushion

traction

"Both models exhibit exceptional cushioning, providing a soft and squishy feel during runs."

cushion

comfort

"The New Balance F Cel Propel V5 has good cushioning, confirming positive performance."

cushioning

performance

premium foam

"The cushioning is sufficient for midfoot runners, providing comfort on landing."

cushioning

midfoot

comfort

Cons

"The midsole may feel too soft and sluggish during faster run paces."

soft midsole

sluggish performance

"There may not be enough softness in the forefoot compared to the heel."

forefoot cushioning

heel cushioning

"The shoe's fuel cell foam is too soft for effective interval training, resulting in a loss of power during high-intensity runs."

soft foam

interval training

power loss

"The cushion and ride quality may not be as soft and bouncy as expected."

bounciness

cushioning

ride comfort

"The Rebel V4 does not provide as much forefoot squish as the Propel V5."

cushioning

forefoot comfort

softness

"While the shoes may be ideal for long-distance running, they are not well-suited for interval training due to their cushiness."

long-distance

interval training

cushioning

"The Propel V5's soft cushioning is less responsive at higher speeds."

softness

cushioning

"The cushioning is not sufficient for absorbing landing impacts."

cushioning

impact

landing

comfort
Breathability: More breathable

The main concerns about the shoe's comfort are that the tongue can irritate the foot and that some users feel the overall comfort isn't as good as other models.

breathability (6)

cushioning (3)

tongue (3)

long-distance (2)

upper (1)

support (1)

structure (1)

padding (1)

Pros

"The shoe offers exceptional comfort from the cushioning provided by the fuelcell foam."

cushioning

comfort

foam

"The Puma Velocity Nitro 3 offers improved comfort with increased dual density midsole foam."

midsole

comfort

dual density

"The New Balance Propel V5 is recognized for its soft midsole, providing a comfortable ride."

softness

midsole

comfort

"Breathability in the upper allows for cooler feet during workouts, enhancing overall comfort."

breathable

cooling

"It has a highly breathable upper design, allowing for airflow and ventilation."

ventilation

material

"The upper construction offers good comfort and breathability."

upper comfort

breathability

"The engineered synthetic/mesh upper enhances the shoe's lightweight feel and breathability."

lightweight

breathable

upper design

"The Propel V5 has a breathable upper that enhances overall comfort during usage."

breathable

mesh

"The shoe has good breathability, providing airflow during the run."

breathability

airflow

comfortable

"The upper is secure and padded, contributing to overall comfort during runs."

padded

secure

durable material

"The shoe has a well-structured upper that provides comfort and support."

support

structure

"The New Balance Propel V5 features a comfortable and structured upper."

upper

structured

thick

"The shoe delivers comfort for long-distance runs."

comfort

daily

long run

"The shoe's design aligns well with the needs of long-distance running, providing adequate support and comfort."

long-distance

support

comfort

"The shoe has a good amount of padding which contributes to comfort during runs."

padding

no irritation

comfortable

"The padding around the collar and tongue enhances comfort without being overly bulky."

collar padding

tongue padding

"The shoe features modified padding design, enhancing comfort around the heel."

heel support

design

comfort

"The Propel V5 is a solid option for beginner runners looking for comfort during easy runs."

beginner

easy runs

comfortable

"The firmness of the toe guard softened quickly and did not cause discomfort during the run."

firmness

comfort

toe guard

Cons

"The TPU plate can feel uncomfortable on uneven surfaces."

TPU plate

uneven surfaces

"There's uncertainty about overall comfort with long runs over time."

comfort

long distance

performance

"The upper structure may be overly thick for some runners."

structured upper

thick material

"The shoe's upper lacks a gusseted tongue design."

gusseted tongue

standard design

"The tongue stitching irritates the foot, which can affect overall comfort during usage."

tongue

irritation

comfort

"The tongue design on the Rebel V4 makes it difficult to put on."

tongue design

ease of use

comfort

"The padding around the shoe is not overly padded, which may not provide enough comfort for some users."

padding

comfort

support

"The overall comfort of the shoe is not as good as competing models, particularly the Brooks Ghost Max."

comparison

comfort level

durability

The main concerns about the shoe's durability are that it has poor durability and issues with the toebox and heel padding, which were mentioned frequently.

outsole (2)

material (1)

long-lasting (1)

build (1)

overall (1)

toebox (1)

heel padding (1)

overall life (1)

Pros

"The outsole is durable and holds up well over time, even after extensive use."

long-lasting

wear-resistant

good quality

"The thickness of the rubber outsole is impressive and contributes to durability."

rubber

thickness

durability

"The shoe is made with a durable upper and overlays around the lace eyelets, increasing its durability."

durability

overlays

quality

"Durability is highlighted as a strong point for the Puma Velocity Nitro 3, providing long-lasting performance."

durability

mileage

performance

"The shoe seems more substantial than initially expected, suggesting a solid build."

solid

substantial

Cons

"The shoe has poor durability."

wear

longevity

"The toebox lacks durability leading to premature wear."

wear

fit

"The heel padding also suffers from durability issues."

wear

comfort

"The shoe may not remain durable over time, raising concerns after extended use."

wear and tear

long-term use

performance

"The shoe may show signs of wear and tear due to the exposed fuel cell material."

wear

tear

fuel cell

"The shoe lacks sufficient reinforcement in the mudguard area, which could lead to durability issues."

mudguard

durability

"There may be concerns about the shoe's longevity, with users unsure about how well it will hold up over time."

longevity

durability

"The Propel V5 has a heavier weight compared to the Rebel V4 but may still deliver a great performance."

weight

heaviness

performance

"Durability concerns due to the softer midsole exposure in the Propel V5."

exposure

soft midsole

performance
Distance suited: Short (<10km)
Rocker: Less rocker

The main issues with the shoe are its insufficient performance for speed work and lack of responsiveness, which were mentioned frequently.

responsiveness (3)

speed (2)

versatility (2)

energy (1)

value (1)

usability (1)

propulsion (1)

heel drop (1)

Pros

"The shoe provides good energy return, making runs feel more enjoyable and propelling the runner forward."

energy return

responsive

"The shoe works well for speed training, thanks to its construction and design."

performance

training

"The New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 features a budget-friendly price without sacrificing performance."

budget-friendly

performance

affordability

"The shoe's TPU plate enhances responsiveness and provides a lively ride."

TPU plate

lively ride

responsiveness

"The TPU plate adds responsiveness and a snappy ride."

TPU plate

snappy

performance

"The Puma shoe provides a solid balance between comfort and responsiveness suitable for various training needs."

responsiveness

comfort

versatile

"The shoe is versatile enough for both slower and quicker runs."

pace

versatile

daily

"The shoe has great overall versatility for a range of different runs."

training

multiple runs

value

"This model is described as a significant improvement over its predecessor, the V4, especially for casual use."

casual

daily wear

"The TPU plate provides a propulsive feeling, enhancing running dynamics."

TPU plate

propulsion

running dynamics

"The shoe features a 6 mm heel toe drop, which benefits forward motion."

heel toe drop

forward motion

performance

"The overall running experience is stable, responsive, and pleasant, making it a good shoe."

stability

responsiveness

pleasant

"The shoe features a lightweight design that enhances running efficiency."

lightweight

design

efficient

Cons

"The shoe lacks performance for speed work."

speed work

versatility

"The shoe's performance isn't sufficient for speed work or race day."

energy return

training

race day

"The TPU plate fails to provide the expected responsiveness."

TPU plate

lack

responsiveness

"The stiffness of the foam combined with shoe size affects responsiveness during fast paces."

responsiveness

performance

"The Propel V5's lack of responsiveness affects performance during speed work."

speed work

intervals

"Energy return is limited, affecting performance."

efficiency

performance

"The shoe might not be adequate for higher intensity runs."

speed work

race

high intensity

"The shoe doesn't provide a noticeable performance benefit from the TPU plate."

TPU plate

no performance benefit

"Lacks versatility and is not suitable for performance-focused runs or racing."

lack of versatility

not for racing

"The Propel V5 lacks versatility for more intense runs due to its soft midsole."

soft midsole

intensity

intervals

"The shoe could feel a bit heavy for runners considering a lighter option."

heavy

comparison

"The shoe feels very stiff at the midfoot due to the TPU plate."

TPU plate

midfoot

stiffness

"The integrated plastic plate does not create a pronounced rocker motion that some runners may prefer."

plastic plate

rocker motion

performance

"The Rebel V4 may not be ideal for those requiring a smoother heel-to-toe transition."

heel-to-toe

smoother ride

plated

performance

"The Propel V5 is primarily suited for easy runs, limiting its overall use."

easy runs

overall performance

"O tênis não apresenta uma evolução significativa em comparação com a versão anterior."

evolução

comparação

"There is a lack of rebound response from the shoe."

rebound

response

performance

"The shoe lacks a noticeable rocker which affects the running experience."

rocker

performance

running

"The overall running experience is described as forgettable."

forgettable

running

experience

"The shoe does not feel particularly responsive during runs."

responsiveness

performance

running

fit
True to size: Runs small
Toebox width: Narrower
Heel width: Narrower
Orthotic friendly: No

The main concerns about the shoe are that it may not fit wider feet comfortably and can feel restrictive, which appears frequently in the feedback.

size (2)

lockdown (2)

width (2)

restrictiveness (2)

strike_style (1)

true to size (1)

breathability (1)

tongue design (1)

Pros

"The shoe fits true to size with no major issues regarding comfort or fit."

true to size

comfortable fit

no hot spots

"The shoe is ideal for midfoot strikers, supporting their running style."

striking

fit

"The shoe fits true to size for general wear, though may be restrictive for wider feet."

fit

restrictive

"The shoe provides a good lockdown and prevents heel slippage."

fit

lockdown

heel

"Excellent lock down around the midfoot provides a secure fit during runs."

midfoot

secure

supportive

"The New Balance Fuel Cell Propel V5 offers a wide version, catering to those with wider feet."

wide fit

foot comfort

"The Rebel V4 provides a wider toe box, enhancing comfort for those with broader feet."

toe box

fit

comfort

"The New Balance Fuel Cell Rebel V4 offers exceptional breathability with its mesh design."

breathability

mesh

comfort

"The Propel V5 features a standard tongue design, making it easier to put on compared to the Rebel V4's low fork tongue."

ease

fit

"The shoe conforms well to the foot, enhancing the overall fit and comfort during use."

fit

comfort

conformity

"The fit and adjustment of the shoes are commendable, although they may feel tight to some."

fit

adjustment

tight

Cons

"The shoe's fit may not accommodate wider feet comfortably."

fit

comfort

"The Propel V5 may feel restrictive for runners with wider feet."

restrictive

size fitting

"There is limited room for toe splay, making it less ideal for long-distance runners."

comfort

distance

"The shoe feels a bit restrictive in fit, especially for those with wider feet."

restricted fit

wide feet issue

"The shoe feels a bit restrictive, especially around the toe box."

restrictive fit

toe box space

"The Propel V5 feels a bit higher off the ground compared to the Rebel V4."

feel

fit

ground contact

"The 6 mm heel-toe drop may not be optimal for all runners, potentially affecting their running style."

heel-toe drop

running style

"O ajuste do tênis pode ser um problema, pois ele é descrito como apertado."

ajuste

tamanho

"The shoe runs smaller than expected, leading to discomfort."

sizing

discomfort

"The need for a larger size means potential for awkward fitting experiences."

size adjustment

awkward fit

"The toe box is too tight, causing rubbing against the shoe."

tightness

rubbing

"There's a significant concern about sizing inconsistency with New Balance shoes."

sizing issues

inconsistency

stability
Stability level: Average

The main points to note are that the TPU plate is frequently mentioned as a pro for stability, while insufficient stability during sharp turns and for heel strikers is a common con.

support (1)

pavement (1)

TPU plate (1)

transition (1)

overall (1)

cornering (1)

heel strikers (1)

rigidity (1)

Pros

"The TPU plate within the shoe provides added stability, guiding the foot through its stride."

stability

structure

"The TPU plate adds some stability, particularly on pavement."

stability

direction

"The TPU propulsion plate provides a nice level of stability during runs."

stability

support

nice feel

"The Propel V5 offers a smoother heel-to-toe transition thanks to its plate design, making it a more comfortable option for walking and running."

heel-toe transition

smoothness

"The stability of the shoes was quite impressive, providing confidence during the run."

stability

confidence

support

Cons

"The foam does not provide sufficient stability during sharp turns."

stability

cornering

"The shoe is not well-suited for heel strikers due to its drop and foam."

fit

strike pattern

"Not recommended for runners seeking stability and support on uneven terrain."

stability

support

"The midsole might compress too much for heavier runners, which can affect performance."

heavier runners

midsole compression

"The heel section of the midsole feels very soft, which may affect stability for heavier heel strikers."

instability

heel strike

softness

"The TPU plate only provides support in the midsole and lacks coverage across the whole foot, which may limit overall performance."

TPU plate

midsole support

"The rocker feature in the shoe is lacking compared to the competitor's model."

lack of rocker

comparison

grip

The main points to note are that excellent traction and grip are frequently mentioned as pros, while the issue of the outsole trapping small rocks is a common con.

traction (6)

protection (2)

outsole (2)

durability (1)

all-terrain (1)

debris (1)

coverage (1)

debris collection (1)

Pros

"The shoe's sole is noted for having excellent traction and durability, contributing to overall performance."

traction

durability

"The outsole provides good traction, even in wet and muddy conditions."

good traction

wet conditions

reliable

"The traction from the rubber outsole is effective on various surfaces, including wet conditions."

outsole

grip

wet conditions

"The outsole has decent rubber coverage, contributing to traction on various surfaces."

outsole

traction

rubber coverage

"The traction on the outsole provides good grip, essential for stability during runs."

outsole

stability

"The grip of the shoe is effective, allowing for confident cornering during runs."

grip

confidence

cornering

"The outsole design features a generous layer of rubber, enhancing grip and durability."

rubber

outsole

"The outsole design provides good grip on various surfaces."

outsole

grip

rubber

"The New Balance Propel V5 has a great outsole that protects the softer foam and provides grip."

outsole

protection

grip

"The Puma Velocity Nitro 3 has an excellent grip suitable for various conditions, including light trails."

outsole

grip

trail

Cons

"Rocks easily get stuck in the outsole cutouts."

outsole

design

debris

"The outsole is prone to trapping small rocks."

grip

trail

"The shoe's grip can get compromised by the exposed plate design, attracting rocks."

grip

traction

outsole

"The exposed foam in the midfoot could raise concerns about grip and durability."

outsole

grip

durability

"The outsole design can collect small stones during runs, which is inconvenient."

stone collection

outsole design issue

other

The main points to note are that many users appreciate the New Balance Fuelcell Propel v5 for its great value and affordability, while concerns frequently arise regarding its weight and lack of reflective elements for visibility.

design (3)

lightweight (2)

style (2)

heaviness (2)

preço (2)

versatility (1)

value (1)

price (1)

Pros

"The New Balance Fuelcell Propel v5 is highly versatile and can be used for daily activities as well as running."

versatile

daily use

"This model is suitable for daily wear, making it a versatile option for various activities."

daily use

versatile

"The shoe is praised for its great value considering its quality and performance."

value

affordability

"The FuelCell Propel v5 is an affordable daily trainer that offers great value."

affordable

value for money

daily trainer

"The price is competitive compared to similar models, offering great value for the features provided."

price

affordability

"The shoe is great value for daily training and comfortable for general running."

value

daily training

"The price of the New Balance Fuel Cell Propel V5 is very reasonable."

price

value

economical

"At a price of $120, this shoe is viewed as a great value for the quality it provides, especially in comfort and support."

cost-effective

worth it

"Both New Balance models are praised for their respective price points, offering great value for the performance they provide."

price

value

"The Puma Velocity Nitro 3 is generally considered a better value for money compared to the Propel V5."

cost-effective

comparison

"The shoe is affordable, making it a good choice for budget-conscious runners."

affordability

value for money

"Overall, the shoe offers a solid option for daily training without exceeding a budget."

daily use

training

"The Propel v5 has improved weight compared to its predecessor, making it more manageable."

weight

reduced weight

comfort

"The Fuel Cell Rebel V4 is significantly lighter than the Propel V5, making it a great option for runners who prioritize weight."

weight

performance

"The shoe showcases an appealing aesthetic with multiple colorway options."

colorways

style

appearance

"Stylistically, the Rebel V4 has a faster and more futuristic design that appeals to the reviewer."

aesthetic

style

design

"The Propel V5 is an affordable option for a daily trainer."

price

affordable

daily trainer

"The shoe has a good aesthetic appeal with multiple color options available."

aesthetic

color options

style

"The design of the midsole is attractive, showing a modern geometric style."

design

midsole

geometric

"The shoe has a visually appealing design that attracts attention."

visual appeal

"The rubber outsole is appreciated for its functionality and design."

outsole

design

Cons

"There are concerns over the lack of reflective elements for visibility."

safety

visibility

"The shoe has limited overall versatility for various running conditions."

versatility

mixed terrain

"The shoe is heavier than average, which affects performance at speed."

heavy

performance

"Despite improvements, the shoe's weight still feels noticeable to some runners."

weight

feel

performance

"Inconsistent feel of the fuel cell foam across different shoes makes comparison difficult."

inconsistency

foam feel

"The shoe is heavier than expected, weighing in at 300G."

heaviness

weight

multi-purpose

"The colorway of the shoe is considered boring and lacks appeal."

colorway

boring

visual appeal

"O custo-benefício do tênis é considerado insatisfatório."

custo

benefício

"O preço é considerado excessivo para um modelo de entrada."

preço

modelo de entrada

"The shoe does not provide much in terms of excitement or motivation to run."

motivation

excitement

running

"The price is considered too high for the shoe's performance level."

price

value

performance

"The shoe competes poorly with better options available at similar prices."

comparison

performance

options

Model Updates

The New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 introduces updated materials in the upper for enhanced breathability and comfort, while the shoe also incorporates a more responsive FuelCell foam to provide improved energy return and propulsion compared to its predecessor. Additionally, design modifications offer a sleeker look and a better fit, ensuring a snug and secure feel during runs.

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

Read reviews about the New Balance fuelcell propel v5 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

...

Wear-tester reviews (18)

4.0/5

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New Balance fuelcell propel v5

New Balance fuelcell propel v5

Surface

Cushioning

Category

Breathability

Weight

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Support

Width options

Grip

Suitability

Based on your running style and needs

Want to know if the New Balance fuelcell propel v5 is right for you?

Pros & Cons

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion

Pros

Cons

comfort

Pros

Cons

durability

Pros

Cons

performance

Pros

Cons

fit

Pros

Cons

stability

Pros

Cons

grip

Pros

Cons

other

Pros

Cons

Older Models

Newer Models

...

4.0/5

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