Looks like New Balance completely revamped the Fuelcell Propel for version 4. To my eyes it has some of the characteristics of the Endorphin Speed and the HOKA Mach. The price of $110 is incredibly low for what the V4 seems to be offering.
With the TPU forefoot plate, the Propel will be stiffer/springier than the Rebel. Reviewers noted varying degrees of heel lift in the Propel due to this. The upper on the Propel is cheaper/heavier and less dialed-in for lockdown and heel fit than the Rebel. It looks like a great value for a daily trainer with a slight edge over some higher priced daily trainers. I liked Propel v1 and Rebel v1 & v2 a lot and would definitely give these a try.
With the TPU forefoot plate, the Propel will be stiffer/springier than the Rebel. Reviewers noted varying degrees of heel lift in the Propel due to this. The upper on the Propel is cheaper/heavier and less dialed-in for lockdown and heel fit than the Rebel. It looks like a great value for a daily trainer with a slight edge over some higher priced daily trainers. I liked Propel v1 and Rebel v1 & v2 a lot and would definitely give these a try.
That's a good overview. With the added TPU plate in the Propel V4 it should help control the squishiness of the FC midsole and make the transitions smoother and more efficient. I think the rockered midsole geometry looks similar to the Mach V4/5. The midsole cutout with the window for the TPU plate is borrowed from the FC SC Trainer.
If I had to guess New Balance seems to be positioning the FC Propel V4 as a competitor to the Asics Magic Speed 2. There's a lot of similarities there but the Propel is significantly less expensive.
That's more or less what the Pacer is/was with slightly lower stack. It appears to have been discontinued, so maybe that's where they'll go with the next generation Rebel.
That's more or less what the Pacer is/was with slightly lower stack. It appears to have been discontinued, so maybe that's where they'll go with the next generation Rebel.
The Pacer received lackluster reviews. It's now available through TJX discount outlets for $60.