New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 running shoes

The New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 is a comfortable daily running shoe designed for easy running. It’s not fast, but you can run some faster intervals in it; it might not be the best choice for longer runs than a half marathon because the midsole is soft and only medium height with less shock absorption , but it can be good for gym workouts and walking. The Propel v5 is the entry-level shoe in New Balance’s FuelCell foam midsole line, and it’s the cheapest. If you’re looking for a comfortable, soft, but relatively stable running shoe, the New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 may be a good choice.

New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 upper

The upper of the The New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 running shoe has a thicker-than-average, more cushioned mesh upper with moderate breathability. It may not be the best choice on warmer days, especially for longer runs. The upper is slightly smaller than its size, so it’s worth buying half a size larger, especially if you have wide feet. The tongue of the shoe is thick, comfortable, not gusseted, but doesn’t slip. The heel collar is also well padded, comfortable and locks the foot well.

New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 midsole

The New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 running shoe midsole is made with FuelCell foam, a supercritical EVA foam. The midsole is light and soft, but not high, making it more suitable for short to medium distance running. The midsole has a TPU plate that complements the midsole perfectly. It makes the otherwise soft midsole more stable and more dynamic. As mentioned, the FuelCell foam is soft, but compared to other New Balance running shoes with FuelCell foam, it feels less soft, which may be due to the thickness of the midsole. The midsole height hasn’t changed from the previous version, it’s the same 31mm at the heel and 25mm at the forefoot. The geometry of the Propel v5 midsole is also rocker, which means it is curved at the heel and also at the forefoot, which is nicely holded by the TPU plate, but this curvature is less than the previous version, but the transitions are still smooth.

New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 outsole

The New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 running shoe outsole is segmented, the midsole does not cover the whole midsole, so it flexes easier than a carbon plated shoe (the TPU plate is not as stiff as carbon, so the midsole is not overly rigid) The rubber outsole has good grip, even on wet pavement, better than average. The rubber outsole material is durable and has good wear resistance, but this depends on the runner’s weight and running style. The midsole has a large cutout along the length of the shoe through which the TPU plate is visible. This is not only used by New Balance to show the TPU plate, but also to reduce weight and make the shoe more stable. However, this cutout can easily pick up pebbles that get stuck in it and can be distracting while running. Although the Propel v5 is not intended for off-road running, it is still possible to pick up pebbles on firm pavement that get stuck in the sole.

Summary

Overall, the New Balance FuelCell Propel v5 running shoe is a comfortable everyday running shoe that is best worn for easy runs on not-too-hot days. The upper is padded, slightly thicker than average, and not particularly breathable. The midsole is soft but not unstable thanks to the TPU plate. The outsole has good grip and wears more slowly than average. Compared to the previous version, the geometry of the midsole has changed the most, with a focus on comfort rather than performance. The outsole design has also changed, with improved grip.