NEW BALANCE Fuelcell REBEL v2 REVIEW - SPEED Test & LONG RUN Test - BEST SHOE OF 2021?? - The FOD Runner

Aug 13, 2025

Quick Summary

This is a quick summary of “NEW BALANCE Fuelcell REBEL v2 REVIEW - SPEED Test & LONG RUN Test - BEST SHOE OF 2021??” from The FOD Runner. It’s a great watch — we’re breaking it down so you can try the workouts today. Be sure to check out the full video for all the details.

Key Points

The REBEL v2 handles a 16‑mile progressive long run (8 mi @ 7:10 / mi, 8 mi @ 6:30 / mi) with smooth cushioning and a responsive mid‑sole.
A speed test uses three ladder intervals: 7 × 2‑minute repeats, 7 × 30‑second repeats, and 7 × 50‑meter sprints, targeting paces around 5:20 / mi for the longer intervals.
Fit tip: the shoe runs true‑to‑size but has a tight toe box; runners with wider feet may need to size up, but note the limited half‑size options.
Stack height is balanced (≈26 mm heel, 20 mm forefoot) giving enough cushion for long mileage while still providing a “pop” for faster work.
The shoe feels equally comfortable for easy miles and responsive enough for tempo/interval work, making it a true jack‑of‑all‑trades.

Workout Example

Long‑Run (16 mi total)

Miles 1‑8: 7:10 / mi steady pace
Miles 9‑16: 6:30 / mi progressive pace (or slightly faster if you feel good)

Speed Ladder

2‑minute repeats – 7×, aim for ~5:20 / mi (or your typical 5K effort)
30‑second repeats – 7×, keep the effort sharp, about 4:45‑5:00 / mi
50‑meter sprints – 7×, all‑out effort, focusing on quick turnover and form

Adjust the paces to match your own fitness level; the Pacing app lets you plug in your target splits and the shoe will still perform the same.

Practical Tips

Fit: Try the shoe on a short run; if your big toe touches the front on downhills, consider a half‑size up (if available) or use a slightly larger width model.
Stack Height Awareness: Use the REBEL v2 for medium‑length runs (up to 16 mi) and interval work; for ultra‑long runs you may prefer a lower‑stack shoe.
Pacing Flexibility: Because the shoe balances cushioning and responsiveness, you can safely mix easy miles, tempo runs, and interval ladders in the same week.
Customization: Load the interval structure into the Pacing app, set your own target paces, and let the app guide you through the workout.

Closing Note

Give the REBEL v2 a spin on both your long runs and speed sessions – it’s surprisingly versatile. Customize the paces to suit your own training, log the workout in the Pacing app, and see how the shoe feels for you. Happy running! 🌟