Reebok FloatZig 2 Review: A Shoe for Fun-Loving Runners

Let’s be honest, while running has become ultra-popular, it has also become quite complicated, well, the running ‘industry’ that is. With so much variety in shoes, gels, techniques, and accessories, it’s easy for the fun to be sucked right out of going for an easy 5km run. However, Reebok’s FloatZig 2 reminds me of a time where running purely for the joy of the run was the modus operandi of every day.

The entire DNA of the Reebok FloatZig 2 harks back to the early days of running. With this shoe, Reebok is acknowledging that not all runs are performance or recovery sessions; sometimes, you just want to go out for the heck of it.

With this being the case, the FloatZig 2 isn’t the ‘fastest’ shoe on the block. You won’t be breaking any records with it, but you’ll have a good time from start to finish. Following in the footsteps of the FloatZig 1, this new version of the shoe is a fair bit more bouncy and fun than its predecessor.

The first thing that will notice you about the FloatZig 2 is its looks: brimming with retro-fueled colours and a chunkier silhouette to remind you of the good ole days. All running shoes are pretty bold and ‘out there’ these days, so it’s cool to see something a little more subdued but funky on the streets.

In terms of tech, the FloatZig 2 features Reebok’s new lightweight, nitrogen-injected SuperFloat+ Foam combined with re-engineered Zig Tech technology in the midsole to help create an even springier and more stable run. With premium cushioning, great shock absorption, and higher energy return than the previous model, the latest FloatZig is built for new runners, seasoned everyday athletes, and everyone in between. With a stack height of 33mm, it’s a great choice for slow runs, recovery runs, and fun 5km outings with your running crew.

This time around, the FloatZig 2 offers runners a refined Zig Tech midsole shape with improved comfort and stability. The shoe has a wider midfoot that is still soft and spongy to provide a more stable transition through every stride. This shoe has great stability, with its more conservative 6mm drop, you don’t get that aggressive rocker feel underfoot like you do with many other shoes on the market. Many other brands lean towards a 7mm – 10mm drop for their everyday training shoes, but this option leans more towards a neutral running shoe that’s easier on your knees.

If you have a history of injury or recurring pressure in certain areas, you’ll want to pay attention to the heel-to-toe drop of your running shoes. The shoe’s drop influences how your foot strikes the ground and how the force from running is distributed through your lower body while running. Lower-drop shoes (up to 6mm) increase the load on the calves and Achilles, while higher-drop shoes shift more pressure to the knees and hips.

I struggle with my left knee and Achilles when running, but I had no issues with either running in the FloatZig 2. My first outing in the FloatZig 2 was a short and easy 3km run. The shoe was very comfortable, but felt quite firm underfoot. The shoe did loosen up by my third test run in them, and by then, I started to appreciate the smooth ride you get from these. The shoe’s outsole also provides full coverage that is decently grippy on the roads and the treadmill, giving you the confidence to keep going no matter where the road takes you.

I was most impressed with the comfort of this shoe. The FloatZig 2 has an engineered mesh upper with gusseted support through the midfoot to give you that sock-like fit, without losing the traditional tongue construction that many runners prefer. The tongue and the heel collar both have added plush cushioning for a comfortable, no-rub fit. The supportive, robust upper gives you the impression the shoe will feel a little rigid on, but there’s padding everywhere on this thing, so instead you get an ultra-plush feel on foot.

If you’re looking for a versatile running shoe with a more neutral profile, then you’ll enjoy heading out in the Reebok FloatZig 2. It’s a great pick for a casual runner who wants something that makes a statement while still offering plenty of comfort. If you’re more focused on running for coffee with your mates over breaking finish line tape then this newbie is worth a look.

The Reebok FloatZig 2 is now available in South Africa at a price of R 2,799.