Type: neutral cushioning
Weight: 7.3 oz. (women’s), 8.7 oz. (men’s)
Drop: 10 mm
MSRP: $130
As the temperature rise and sidewalks start to clear of snow and ice, a new shoe will definitely put a “spring” in your step, and Reebok’s new Forever Floatride Energy could be just what you’re looking for.
Here’s why: light, bouncy and as soft as a slipper while still providing excellent responsiveness, this new Floatride is incredibly versatile, as well as affordable. With more than enough lightness and energy return for speedwork and more than enough cushioning to get you through your longest runs, we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it for longer races this spring.
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If, like our tester, you’re a neutral heel-striker who likes a shoe with a ton of foam under the heel, you’ll love the Reebok Forever Floatride Energy. And though we’re slightly skeptical about the durability of this shoe’s outsole, we like that the it lacks the hard landing experienced with some other brands that may be more durable. Priced at $130, the shoe is affordable enough that you can have two pairs in your rotation, and instead of worrying about durability you can focus on your training and your upcoming races.
Reebok claims its Floatride midsole cushioning material is 30 per cent lighter than EVA, and we believe it. At only 7.3 ounces (women’s) or 8.7 ounces (men’s), the shoe feels as light as a spring breeze without ever feeling sloppy or unstable.
The bright blue design (in both men’s and women’s) and the cage graphic look great, and make the Forever Floatride Energy stand out in a sea of black/orange/yellow/red shoes this season.
Reebok Forever Floatride Energy. Photo: Matt Stetson
Many shoes now have a mesh upper is light, breathable, and form-fittingly comfortable, and this one, though unremarkable in that regard, delivers comfort and fit as you expect. The tongue and laces come right up to the ankle, which adds to the feeling of security. One of the features of the original Floatride from 2017 was its 3D molded plastic heel cup, which is still here, offering that same security Reebok has become famous for. The heel collar comes up quite high without feeling restrictive.
The shoe’s generous toebox might leave you feeling you should go down a half-size, but don’t be tempted, because once you start running you’ll find those extra millimetres give a much better experience over the long haul.
The Forever Floatride Energy is a brilliant addition to the neutral cushioning stable, and we think it will dominate this category.
