Best Uptempo Daily Trainer?
The Rebel returns! With a wider platform and upper update this very popular uptempo daily trainer gets a 2023 makeover! The midsole remains identical to the previous version which was a lot of fun last year! Do the updates keep the Rebel 3 as one of the most popular daily trainers or has it had it's day?
Stats & Features
£130
FuelCell foam
Lightweight engineered knit upper with no-sew overlays
Gusseted tongue designed for a sleek fit
Lace-up closure for a secure fit
6 mm drop
Weight 209g (quote New Balance website)
Watch sizing I went upto a UK10 from usual 9.5
Upper
I had go up half size in Rebel 3 as I needed more room in the upper. The new engineered knit upper is an improvement over last year's model with much more forgiveness in it, and it also feels very breathable. The lacing and midfoot lockdown is fine and works well with the gusseted tongue. It is very comfortable in the heel with the right amount of foam for a lightweight uptempo daily trainer.
Midsole
The Fuelcell Rebel 3 retains the exact same midsole as in the previous version which is not a bad thing. It is fun and responsive for that faster work. Yes it can be unstable for those who need some stability but this is an exiting compound which with it's limited stack offers enough pop to get after it on those faster sessions!
Outsole
There were some negative comments around the Fuelcell Rebel V2 outsole with regards to how it was not holding up with some serious miles on it. All I can say at the moment is that the new outsole is grippy, provides plenty of traction and the miles I have put through the shoe it seems ok. I do worry about Fuelcell as a compound and how brittle it is but so far so good!
Value
£130 is about right. I do think you will get these reduced down pretty soon (see yah or nah) and under £100 they would be a good addition to your rotation for those faster days.
Does it make you feel awesome?
Sure do! If you are on a tempo run or a nice smooth progressive run these Rebel 3's will light you up! They are great fun if you want to get after it. They are no good as a daily trainer as they do not offer enough versatility but they are a lot of fun there is no denying that!
Yah or Nah?
It is a Yah from me as they are a lot of fun! I do have a problem where they offer value if you can only afford one pair of running shoes though. If you need a running shoe to do it all this is not the shoe for you. The New Balance Fuelcell Rebel v3 is great and making you feel awesome on those faster days and if you can justify buying a speed shoe then this will make you smile. For me I would rather you save your money and go and get the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 which will offer you more.
*This review is my own opinion and a totally independent and unbiased review based on my own findings. The products may have been supplied/gifted, purchased or loaned but whatever way they have found themselves to FORDY RUNS HQ we can guarantee the review is honest and our own opinion.