Flexible trainers

The Reebok RealFlex Speed shoe is the latest training innovation to come out of Reebok’s labs to offer a lightweight solution for cross training. The new range is said to combine the best aspects of ‘barefoot’ footwear, which promotes healthy movement and proprioception without the impact forces of running on harsh concrete decks. And, as I found out, the RealFlex concept has pulled this ambition off well.

I found the 76 individual flex-nodes to be especially well designed aspects of the shoe. Thanks to the nodes, the trainers moulded and adapted pretty quickly to the unique pressure points my gait imposed on the shoe as I ran, squatted and stretched.

The breathable fabric, being both lightweight and well ventilated, was also a great feature. At the end of a long run through Safa Park, I found that although my lungs were screaming, my feet were asking what all the huffing and puffing was all about. They were being treated to a unique, air-conditioned comfort that my cardiorespiratory system obviously wasn’t. What’s more the RealFlex is a good looking shoe. All in all, a definite must-have.

— T.B.