New Balance Brings Stunning Style to Its Performance Daily Driver

In a new running collaboration with Aimé Leon Dore, the FuelCell Rebel v5 is given an aesthetic overhaul to match its technical chops.

Top view of a blue sneaker with neon green insole featuring "aimé leon dore" and "NB" logos on a yellow background.

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By Hayley Helms

Published 1 hour ago

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Updated 42 minutes ago

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New Balance’s FuelCell Rebel v5 has already proven that performance innovation doesn’t have to come at a steep cost.

Now, in its first running-oriented collaboration with New York City-based lifestyle label Aimé Leon Dore, the brand is showing elevated style doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg, either.

Pair of blue New Balance running shoes with black thick soles and yellow "FuelCell" and "aimé leon dore" text accents. — The dusky, gradient blend of colors on the new collaboration shoe calls to mind the twilight time between sunset and night.

Good looks, tons of tech

The ALD x New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 anchors the new capsule, which spans apparel, accessories and two shoes.

(The race-ready FuelCell SC Elite v5 complements the FuelCell Rebel v5 daily workhorse.)

Man wearing a blue cap, black jacket with neon yellow hydration vest, blue shorts, black leggings, and blue running shoes. — Aimé Leon Dore introduced the FuelCell Rebel v5 as part of the Spring/Summer ’26 Performance Running Capsule.

The refreshed FuelCell Rebel v5 features a striking blue-to-black gradient.

Its breathable upper, complete with no-sew overlays, begins in a vibrant royal blue before gradually fading into a deep, dusky black across the cushioned midsole and outsole.

The tonal “NB” logo on the lateral side of the lightweight mesh upper (constructed with FantomFit for secure breathability) is accompanied by the ALD flower logo.

Aimé Leon Dore

Pair of navy blue and black running shoes with textured heel and thick black soles, viewed from the back. — The colorway and custom co-branded sockliner is new, but the propulsive midsole stays the same.

To contrast the twilight hues, pops of highlighter greenish-yellow can be found on the ALD branding on the tongue and heel, FuelCell branding on the midsole and the floral ALD logo on the forefoot.

Punctuated by the ALD flower logo, the quintessential “NB” on the lateral side of the shoe appears in a tonal blue that matches the eyestay.

Black rubber shoe sole with geometric tread pattern and yellow "FuelCell" text. — The redesigned outsole features more rubber at the forefoot.

In terms of tech, the shoe maintains its approachable performance. The midsole features a blend of EVA and lightweight PEBA, a 35mm stack height, traction-focused outsole and engineered mesh upper.

Although its style has received a significant upgrade, the FuelCell Rebel v5’s price has only increased by $5 … a rebellious move, by today’s expensive sneaker standards.

Availability and pricing

The ALD x New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 is available now on Aimé Leon Dore’s website, along with the entire running capsule collaboration. The sneakers are priced at $150.

Pair of blue New Balance running shoes with black soles and yellow accents, featuring "aime leon dore" branding.

ALD x New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5

$150 at Aimé Leon Dore

About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it’s testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

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