Comparison Overview
Both are top contenders in the speed training category. Try both to find your preference.
How the New Balance Rebel v5 and Adidas Adizero Boston 12 differ
The New Balance Rebel v5 and the Adidas Adizero Boston 12 sit in the same speed training bucket, so the question isn't what you'd use them for — it's which one matches your stride, your weekly mileage, and your budget.
Where they actually differ: the New Balance Rebel v5 comes in roughly 0.6 oz lighter (7.9 oz vs 8.5 oz), which becomes noticeable on faster turnover and longer efforts; the drop differs (6mm on the New Balance Rebel v5, 8mm on the Adidas Adizero Boston 12) — higher-drop shoes tend to feel friendlier to heel strikers and tight calves, while lower drops favor a midfoot landing; the Adidas Adizero Boston 12 rides on the taller stack (32mm/26mm vs 38mm/30mm), giving it more under-foot cushioning at the cost of a slightly less stable platform; and the New Balance Rebel v5 is $20 cheaper at MSRP ($140 vs $160).
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | New Balance Rebel v5 | Adidas Adizero Boston 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | New Balance | Adidas |
| Model | Rebel v5 | Adizero Boston 12 |
| Category | speed training | speed training |
| Weight | 7.9 oz | 8.5 oz |
| Drop | 6mm | 8mm |
| Price | $140 | $160 |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which is lighter, the New Balance Rebel v5 or the Adidas Adizero Boston 12?
- The New Balance Rebel v5 is the lighter shoe at 7.9 oz versus 8.5 oz.
- Which costs less?
- The New Balance Rebel v5 is the more affordable option at $140 compared to $160.
- Do they have the same heel-to-toe drop?
- No. The New Balance Rebel v5 has a 6mm drop and the Adidas Adizero Boston 12 has a 8mm drop, which can change how each shoe loads your calves and Achilles.
- Can I rotate both shoes in the same training block?
- Yes — many runners pair complementary shoes like these to spread load across different muscles and tendons. Use our rotation planner to build a mileage split that fits your schedule.
Read the full reviews
- New Balance Rebel v5 — full specs, AI insights, and verdict.
- Adidas Adizero Boston 12 — full specs, AI insights, and verdict.
- Browse the full running shoe database
- See more shoe comparisons
Not sure which is right for you?
Use our AI-powered shoe finder for personalized recommendations, or build a smart shoe rotation with the rotation planner.