New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 review

Shoe Category: Neutral

Experience: Training

Surface: Road or treadmill 

Suits Foot Arch Type: Flat, Medium, High

Midsole Technology: Thick FuelCell midsole combined with a TPU plate

Upper Technology: Synthetic/mesh construction

Weight (g): 228.9g

Midsole Drop (mm): 6 mm

What New Balance says 

New and experienced runners alike will appreciate the underfoot ride and innovative technology packed into the New Balance FuelCell Propel v4. Featuring a thick FuelCell midsole combined with a TPU plate, this running shoe is designed to maximize comfort and traction to help keep you moving at top speeds.

What I say  

First up, let me share that I’ve never worn New Balance running shoes before, so I was really interested to try them. There’s so much innovation in the running shoe industry that it’s always good to try a new brand or shoe every now and then. A lot of runners tend to stick to the same shoe for years and I always encourage people to get a fitting every 12 to 18 months and to road test some shoes they haven’t run in before.

After running several times in this very affordable shoe, here’s my thoughts.

The New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 is the latest iteration of the popular FuelCell Propel series, which has been a favorite among runners since its debut. This shoe boasts several updates and enhancements, including a redesigned upper and a new outsole that promises improved traction and durability.

One of the most noticeable changes to the FuelCell Propel v4 is the new upper design. It features a breathable mesh material that allows for airflow and ventilation, helping to keep your feet cool and comfortable during long runs. The mesh material is also stretchy, which helps to accommodate different foot shapes and sizes, making it a great option for runners who struggle to find shoes that fit just right.

The upper also has a new, sleeker design that gives the shoe a more modern and stylish look. This updated design is complemented by the shoe’s bold colorways, which include a vibrant pink and black combination, as well as a more subdued black and white option.

The FuelCell Propel v4 also features a new outsole that is designed to improve traction and durability. The outsole is made of a rubber material that provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces, including pavement, dirt, and gravel. Additionally, the outsole has been redesigned with a more aggressive tread pattern that helps to improve traction on wet and slippery surfaces.

One of the standout features of the FuelCell Propel v4 is its cushioning system. The shoe utilizes New Balance’s FuelCell technology, which is designed to provide a soft and responsive ride. The midsole is made of a lightweight foam material that is both soft and supportive, allowing for a comfortable ride without sacrificing performance.

The FuelCell technology also helps to provide a springy and responsive feel, which can help to propel runners forward and make their strides more efficient. This makes the shoe a great option for runners who are looking to improve their speed and performance.

One potential downside of the FuelCell Propel v4 is that it is a bit heavier than some other running shoes on the market. However, this extra weight is offset by the shoe’s excellent cushioning and responsiveness, which help to make up for any added bulk.

Overall, the New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 is an excellent running shoe that offers a comfortable and responsive ride. With its updated upper design, improved traction and durability, and responsive cushioning system, this shoe is a great option for runners who are looking for a shoe that can help them improve their speed and performance.

Price

$180

Where to buy 

Online or instore.