New Balance FUELCELL PROPEL V5 running shoes

The New Balance FuelCell Propel V5 is a neutral daily trainer designed for road running. Built as a versatile and affordable option, it suits runners looking for a comfortable shoe for easy runs, long runs, and daily training across various distances.

The New Balance FuelCell Propel V5 features a FuelCell foam midsole that delivers plush, soft cushioning with moderate energy return. A TPU plate is sandwiched within the midsole to add stability and support smoother transitions, though the overall ride leans toward soft rather than snappy. The generous stack height provides good protection for longer efforts, but the cushioning can feel mushy underfoot, particularly in the forefoot. This makes the shoe better suited for relaxed, steady-paced running rather than speedwork or fast intervals.

The upper uses an engineered mesh construction with perforations throughout the midfoot and forefoot for strong breathability. The standard lacing system provides a secure lockdown, while the padded tongue and heel counter add comfort without causing slippage. The toe box runs on the narrow side, and the overall fit is true to size in length. The TPU plate contributes some neutral stability during runs, making it suitable for neutral runners.

The New Balance FuelCell Propel V5 features a rubber outsole with strategic placement on the forefoot and heel, using a diamond-pattern design that delivers solid traction on dry and wet pavement. The midfoot includes cutouts that reduce weight but can trap small rocks when running on gravel or unpaved surfaces. The shoe is intended strictly for road running.

Weight: 280g (EU 42.5)
Drop: 6mm
Stack: 37mm heel / 31mm forefoot
Terrain: Road
Pronation: Neutral