American brand Reebok released a running shoe late last year to make its mark in the running category, writes Syida Lizta Amirul Ihsan.
REEBOK is known more for its line of clothing and shoes for high-intensity workout brand CrossFit than its involvement in running, but with the launch of its new Liquifect running shoes, it looks like the Adidas-owned brand is trying to build a reputation as a maker of good running shoes, perhaps on par with Nike, Asics and maybe, Adidas.
The shoe was launched late last year, and in conjunction with the release, it held a short run for Press members – and this is saying a lot, given that most running shoes hit the shelves without fanfare, sometimes without even a press release.
The Reebok Liquifect — available at selected Royal Sporting House, Stadium and Reebok stores — is priced at RM329, less than half the price of top-end running shoes like the Nike Pegasus Turbo or Adidas Ultraboost, but if you are new to running and are looking for a comfortable pair for your 5km and 10km runs, this is a good pair that doesn’t burn a hole on your wallet while still giving you the ability to find the joy in the sport.
BETTER MILEAGE
The shoe is tagged as “best for any workout or everyday wear” and that gives it even more mileage when it comes to wear. You can take it from a run on the tarmac to a Zumba class at the park and you can wear it to go out as part of your athleisure ensemble.
I tried it one morning for a short run and I must say that for the price, the shoe gives good cushioning and responsiveness. It’s made of IPU injected polyurethane which helps achieve this comfort that new runners will enjoy. Liquifect is an injected polyurethane compound that provides long term cushioning throughout your run.
The shoe balances flexibility with stability so it doesn’t feel heavy when you run. Some entry level running shoe tend to have hard sole that can make running even 5km uncomfortable, but I am pleasantly surprised with how this shoe made me feel.
It also has good traction off-road so you can take it to the trails too. I did not try it on wet surface so I cannot vouch how good it is when it rains. The upper is soft and almost feel like socks so that’s a bonus too.
WIDE FOOT
Maybe it’s my wide foot or the construction of the shoe but the outer part of my feet feel like it’s standing on a cliff. The sole doesn’t house all of my foot so when I walk it feels funny. Thankfully, I don’t feel the same sensation while running.
Because the upper is soft, my small toe doesn’t feel constricted but knowing that not all parts of my foot are snug on the sole can be off-putting.
The other bit I don’t like is the brown-coloured rubber outsole. Running shoes’ outsole is typically in bright shades or black, so brown looks a bit odd. My shoe is in two shades of purple and white, and I don’t think it’s a fashionable shade for an athleisure footwear.
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