Reebok introduces an attention getter to their running line, the Speedshifter, and it does just that. The availability of high performance materials and designers who work creatively can produce some great synergy, as in this case. The upper is a lightweight engineered mesh, which secures the foot well with good breathability, and the thin tongue features sueded linings for comfort as well as enough venting for airflow and cooling the working foot. Nearer the ground is the magic, beginning with a sandwich of Hyperfloat – Reebok’s ultra light ATPU foam surrounding a carbon fiber plate to accelerate raceday performance. This wouldn’t be a review without a roadtest, and miles in the shoe confirmed that protection and acceleration were present in equal measure. Suitable for distances from 5k to 45k, the Speedshifter is a contender, just add racers.
Testers: “I did not see this coming. Reebok was one of the better running brands, then seemed to lose steam. Now this top plated marathon shoe, wow!”
Price: $220
Shape: Semi-curved
Weight: 8.8 ounces (men’s size 11!!!)
Recommended for: medium to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics, for racing from short distances to the marathon.