New Balance FuelCell Propel v2

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77%
πŸ… Highly Rated
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New Balance FuelCell Propel v2: Review

β€œA responsive and cushioned shoe for daily running.”

Overview


The New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 is a running shoe designed to offer a balance of comfort and responsiveness. This shoe is part of the New Balance FuelCell Propel family, known for its innovative FuelCell technology that provides excellent energy return.

Key Features:

  • FuelCell Midsole: Offers a springy and responsive ride.
  • Engineered Mesh Upper: Provides breathability and support.
  • Ndurance Outsole: Ensures durability and traction.

The New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize a responsive and cushioned ride for daily training. Its breathable upper offers comfort, making it suitable for various weather conditions.

With an average review score of 77%, it's in the lowest rated 30% of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the cheapest 10% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2


The New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 is a versatile running shoe that performs well for a variety of training styles. Reviewers appreciate its springy and responsive FuelCell midsole, which provides excellent energy return. The engineered mesh upper is breathable and supportive, though some found it a bit unforgiving due to its lack of stretch. The Ndurance outsole offers good traction and durability, making it suitable for road running. However, the firm midsole may cause discomfort during longer runs. Overall, the shoe is lightweight and offers a good balance of cushioning and responsiveness. At its price point, it provides excellent value for money. Overall, the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 is a solid choice for road runners looking for a responsive and affordable shoe.

Updates to New Balance FuelCell Propel v2


The New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 features several updates from its predecessor, the New Balance FuelCell Propel. The midsole has been refined to offer a better balance of cushioning and responsiveness, providing a smoother heel-to-toe transition. The upper has been redesigned with a new, lighter, and more breathable mesh material, ensuring a more comfortable fit. Additionally, the outsole has been updated with Ndurance rubber for improved traction and durability.

Comparable Shoes


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The Nike Zoom Pegasus 37 is a popular alternative to the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2. Both shoes offer a responsive ride, but the Pegasus 37 features Nike's React foam, which provides a softer and more cushioned feel. The upper of the Pegasus 37 is also more flexible, making it a better option for runners who prefer a more adaptive fit. However, the Propel v2 is generally more affordable, making it a good value for money.

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The adidas Adizero Boston 9 is another shoe that is often compared to the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2. The Boston 9 is known for its lightweight design and responsive Boost midsole, which offers excellent energy return. While both shoes are suitable for speed training, the Boston 9 is slightly lighter and may be a better choice for runners looking for a more race-oriented shoe. However, the Propel v2 offers better cushioning for longer runs.

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The Brooks Launch 7 is a versatile running shoe that competes with the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2. Both shoes offer a good balance of cushioning and responsiveness, making them suitable for daily training. The Launch 7 features Brooks' BioMoGo DNA midsole, which adapts to the runner's stride for a more personalized feel. However, the Propel v2's FuelCell midsole provides a more springy and energetic ride, making it a better option for speed workouts.

Special versions of New Balance FuelCell Propel v2


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The New Balance FuelCell Propel RMX v2 is a special version of the FuelCell Propel v2, designed to offer enhanced performance features. This version includes additional cushioning in the midsole for a softer ride, making it suitable for longer runs. The upper has been upgraded with a more flexible mesh material, providing a more comfortable fit. Overall, the RMX v2 offers a more cushioned and flexible experience compared to the standard Propel v2.

6 New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 Pros & Cons


4 Pros

Springy and responsive midsole.
Supportive and breathable upper.
Lightweight design.
Affordable price point.

2 Cons

Mesh upper is not very stretchy.
Firm midsole can be uncomfortable for longer runs.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 is made from engineered mesh, which provides excellent breathability and support. This material helps keep the foot cool and dry, even during intense runs. The bootie construction ensures a snug fit, while the seamless collar and tongue add to the overall comfort. However, the mesh is not very stretchy, which can make the fit feel a bit tight or loose depending on the thickness of the socks worn. Overall, the upper is designed to offer a secure and comfortable fit for daily running.

Midsole

The FuelCell midsole in the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 is designed to provide a springy and responsive ride. This technology offers excellent energy return, making each step feel more dynamic. The midsole is also cushioned enough to provide comfort during longer runs, though some runners may find it a bit firm. The 6 mm drop facilitates a smooth heel-to-toe transition, making it suitable for various running styles, including speed training.

Outsole

The Ndurance rubber outsole of the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 offers good traction and durability. This material is designed to withstand wear and tear, making the shoe suitable for road running. The outsole provides sufficient grip on both wet and dry surfaces, though it may slip in dustier conditions. Overall, the outsole contributes to the shoe's longevity and performance, making it a reliable choice for road running.

Size/fit

The New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 generally fits true to size. The bootie construction and engineered mesh upper provide a snug fit, though the lack of stretch in the mesh can make the fit feel a bit tight or loose depending on the socks worn. The seamless collar and tongue add to the overall comfort, ensuring that the shoe hugs the foot without being too constrictive. This makes the shoe suitable for runners with a medium toe box.

Comfort

Comfort is a key feature of the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2. The engineered mesh upper provides breathability, keeping the foot cool and dry. The FuelCell midsole offers a good balance of cushioning and responsiveness, making the shoe comfortable for various types of runs. However, the firm midsole may cause some discomfort during longer runs. Overall, the shoe is designed to offer a comfortable experience for daily running and speed training.

Cushioning

The FuelCell midsole in the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 provides a good level of cushioning, making it suitable for various types of runs. This cushioning helps absorb impact, reducing stress on the joints and providing a more comfortable ride. However, some runners may find the midsole a bit firm, especially during longer runs. Overall, the cushioning is designed to offer a balance of comfort and responsiveness, making it ideal for daily training.

Breathability

The engineered mesh upper of the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 offers excellent breathability. This material allows air to circulate, keeping the foot cool and dry even during intense runs. The breathable design makes the shoe suitable for running in various weather conditions, including hot and humid environments. Overall, the breathability of the upper contributes to the shoe's comfort and performance, making it a good choice for well-ventilated running shoes.

Stability

The New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 offers a good level of stability, thanks to its well-designed midsole and outsole. The FuelCell midsole provides a responsive and cushioned ride, while the Ndurance rubber outsole offers good traction and durability. The bootie construction and engineered mesh upper provide a secure fit, ensuring that the foot stays in place during runs. Overall, the shoe offers a stable and comfortable experience for daily running and speed training.

Durability

The Ndurance rubber outsole of the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 is designed to withstand wear and tear, making the shoe durable for road running. The engineered mesh upper is also durable, providing support and breathability without adding extra weight. Overall, the shoe is built to last, offering good value for money for runners looking for a reliable and long-lasting option for daily training.

Grip

The Ndurance rubber outsole of the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 provides good grip on both wet and dry surfaces. This material ensures that the shoe offers sufficient traction, making it suitable for road running. However, the outsole may slip in dustier conditions. Overall, the grip provided by the outsole contributes to the shoe's performance and reliability, making it a good choice for road running.

Flex

The New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 offers good flexibility, thanks to its engineered mesh upper and FuelCell midsole. The upper material allows for natural foot movement, while the midsole provides a responsive and cushioned ride. This flexibility makes the shoe suitable for various types of runs, including speed workouts. Overall, the shoe offers a flexible and comfortable experience for runners.

Who should buy the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2?


The New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 is ideal for runners who are looking for a versatile and affordable shoe for daily running. Its responsive FuelCell midsole makes it suitable for speed training and other high-intensity workouts. The breathable engineered mesh upper ensures comfort in various weather conditions. This shoe is a good choice for those who prefer a neutral running shoe with a balance of cushioning and responsiveness.

Who should not buy the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2?


Runners who prefer a softer and more cushioned ride may find the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 too firm, especially for longer runs. Those with wider feet might find the engineered mesh upper a bit restrictive due to its lack of stretch. If you are looking for a shoe with more flexibility in the upper, you might want to consider other options. Additionally, runners who need extra support for overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot during walking or running) should look for shoes designed specifically for that purpose.

New Balance FuelCell Propel v2: What's it good for?


The New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 is good for daily running and speed training. Its responsive FuelCell midsole makes it suitable for high-intensity workouts and shorter races. The breathable engineered mesh upper ensures comfort in various weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for road running. Overall, this shoe is designed to offer a balance of cushioning and responsiveness, making it a versatile option for different types of runs.

4 New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 FAQs


Is the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 suitable for long-distance running?

The New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 is designed for daily running and speed training. While it offers good cushioning and responsiveness, some runners may find the midsole a bit firm for longer runs. It is best suited for shorter to medium distances.

How does the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 fit?

The New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 generally fits true to size. The engineered mesh upper provides a snug fit, but the lack of stretch in the material can make the fit feel tight or loose depending on the thickness of the socks worn.

Is the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 good for speed training?

Yes, the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 is suitable for speed training. Its responsive FuelCell midsole provides excellent energy return, making it ideal for high-intensity workouts and shorter races.

What is the weight of the New Balance FuelCell Propel v2?

The New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 weighs approximately 264 g (9.3 oz) for men and 230 g (8.1 oz) for women.

New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 alternatives

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Weight
Weight
M: 264 g
W: 230 g
M: 269 g
W: 218 g
M: 266 g
W: 241 g
M: 215 g
W: 184 g
M: 241 g
W: 207 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
21 mm
22 mm
30 mm
36 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
6 mm
10 mm
5 mm
8 mm
Heel
Heel
27 mm
32 mm
35 mm
44 mm
Usages
Usages
Daily runningSpeed training
Daily runningDaily runningDaily runningDaily runningSpeed trainingRacingSpeed training
Brand
Brand
New Balance
NikeNew BalanceNikeASICSASICS
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
ComfortableMaximalistComfortableComfortableLightweightLightweightMaximalist
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Carbon fiber plate
Carbon fiber plate
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
New Balance FuelCell
New Balance Fresh Foam
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Sustainable
0

New Balance FuelCell Propel v2: what the experts say (1 review)

New Balance FuelCell Propel v2: 3 Expert video reviews

New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainRoad (+1362)
UsagesDaily running (+1132)Speed training (+302)
BrandNew Balance (+125)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1116)Heel strike (+1097)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
FitMedium toe box (+855)
FeaturesBreathable (+753)
MaterialsMesh (+942)
TechsNew Balance FuelCell (+25)
ColorwaysArctic Fox White Mint Light Cyclone, Black, Black / Black / Black, Black / Red, Black / White, Blue / Green, Grey, Light Cyclone Ghost Pepper Black, Navy, Neo Flame Black
Specificationsvs Average
Model
v2
Released
Aug 2020
Measurements
Weight
M: 264 g
W: 230 g
Heel to toe drop
6 mm
Heel
27 mm
Forefoot
21 mm

Evolution of the New Balance FuelCell Propel product family

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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πŸ“Š Stats by geerly πŸ‘Ÿ πŸ•’ Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%