Reebok is a name that has slipped down the totem pole of running shoe pedigree in recent years, but the American brand is back with the FloatZig 1 to reclaim its place on the streets.
The FloatZig 1 is Reebok’s revived running shoe model that takes a retro look and pairs it with some interesting new tech.
Lightness added
Firstly, the brand’s Floatride Energy Foam is very soft, and extremely light – allowing the shoe to achieve its 270g weight. The sole itself also features cutouts (to further reduce weight) and to enable the sole to flex at key areas. What you get is a real sturdy and stable feel, but also flexibility while bending your foot pushing off on a run.
This energy return is further enhanced by what Reebok calls its ‘Energy Band’. This is a flexible but somewhat stiffer rubber plate that reinforces the shoe and provides more snapback after each stride.
The FloatZig 1 also features a heel drop of 6mm, providing wearers a bit of relief for their Achilles and calves, and providing a more forward-leaning position for running. Despite having this pretty notable heel drop, it doesn’t feel radical thanks to the stiffer soleplate and dense yet weight-absorbing foam.
Comfortable and breathable
In terms of comfort above the road, the shoe also features a mesh upper to maximise breathability, along with some reflective overlays for low-light visibility. There is a very soft mesh cage on the inner of the shoe. It wraps the sides of your foot and provides some stability, which is a nice touch.
There is also a bit more structure and thickness around the heel area, which is appreciated for more comfort and lockdown. The mid-foot and forefoot area remains extremely pliable and minimalistic to allow your toes to move freely, giving a more barefoot, sock-like feel.
Attractive styling
On top of all the tech, the FloatZig 1 also rocks an attractive retro look, with a chunkier sole in the heel area, the option of two nostalgic washed-out colour-ways, and the 90s-inspired sneaker silhouette. These all come together to give a look that stands out from the current crop of hyper-futuristic shoes.
Reebok’s running shoe revival with the FloatZig 1 delivers a really natural feeling that prioritises comfort rather than radical gimmicks, that some running shoes rely on. This no-nonsense approach makes the FloatZig 1 a set of daily runners that you can slip on with minimal prep, smash out a 10km run, and feel reinvigorated after taking them off.
Reebok FloatZig 1 retails for R2 799 and scores 5 out of 5.
5.0 out of 5.0 stars
