Reebok FloatZig 2 Review: We’ll All Float On, Okay

Introduction to the Reebok FloatZig 2

CHAD: When I first got into running in 2014, my first visit was to the local Tanger Outlets in Lancaster, PA, where I found myself browsing the clearance section at the Reebok outlet. I walked out that day with probably about five pairs of shoes — a couple for running and a few for my gym workouts. One of the two running pairs fell into Reebok’s ZigTech line, which I used in rotation with the other, non-ZigTech pair while I trained for my first 5k. So I guess you can say Reebok and I go way back in my running journey.

And now, here we are, 11 years later, Reebok’s Zig pattern-based midsole is back in my life in the form of the FloatZig 2. This all-new trainer features an updated SuperFloat Plus midsole in the same Zig pattern I remember from back in the day. Overall, Reebok calls the FloatZig 2 a versatile offering that’s springy yet soft with a smooth ride ready for easy miles and faster runs.

ALEX: One of the key benefits of being part of the illustrious BITR review team is, like a parent, watching a shoe you’ve previously reviewed grow up. I really enjoyed the FloatZig 1 in both form and function, and was impressed by what Reebok could do on a budget. So when I saw a box with the vector logo on my porch, it was the perfect time to “give it another go,” as our brethren across the pond would say. As a lad would have it, I was off on a trip to New England right as this shoe arrived and have been putting it through the paces during my early marathon training block.

RENALDO: Zigged when they should have zagged?

Reebok is back again with another surprise drop that certainly wasn’t on my radar. The FloatZig 2 is Reebok’s attempt to make what was pretty good last year even better with their flagship daily trainer. Like the new model of a car, it brings updates to both the engine and the interior, but the question is whether or not it can get us into top gear. Let’s find out, shall we?

What we like about the Reebok FloatZig 2

CHAD: I’m going to start with the obvious, and that is that this shoe looks awesome. It has a very retro look to it, with the light blue on the back that fades to stark white at the front while continuing to show through the mesh upper. Although I didn’t necessarily find the shoe “springy” as advertised by Reebok, I did find that the ride was very smooth. The outsole provides full coverage that is decently grippy on the roads and the treadmill.

The other great thing about the FloatZig 2 is that it costs $120, which is basically the bottom of the price range for daily trainers these days. You would be hard-pressed to find a better deal on the market.

ALEX: We’re maintaining the style I liked about the first iteration, and with the Floatzig 1 in pretty much every color way under the sun, there was something for everyone’s palette. While I dig this Manchester City-esque blue and white colorway, I imagine Reebok has more in store in the coming months. The mesh upper is cozy, and the tongue has been beefed up and wraps around the foot more significantly. The laces also seem to have gotten an upgrade, feeling more premium and thicker than the previous iteration. Ever a fan of the double tie, the laces here did not come undone on me, which I had issues with on the FloatZig 1.

As Chad said, in a market where every running shoe costs ~$200, Reebok continues to position the FloatZig line as a nice-looking and affordable option. Who has ever complained about saving a few quid?

RENALDO: This time around, the FloatZig 2 sports a brand new look that still evokes Reebok’s classic identity. Out with the mesh, and in with a more conventional, supportive yet robust upper. There’s padding everywhere on this thing. While your foot is fully enclosed this time, there’s still some venting going on for some breathability.

Upon the first step in, the shoe is comfortable, if not a little firm — something comparable to the FloatZig X1. It took a few miles to appreciate the updated FloatZig design during my first run in the shoe, but I’ve started to come around. Reebok swapped to the new SuperFloat Plus foam, which is lighter than the previous FloatRide foams but holds the same bounce. That said, I did notice a few of Reebok’s tweaks, which were enough to make the ride comfortable but less familiar than expected.

There’s definitely a little “more” to the FloatZig 2, which is to be expected of a sequel. But just like a sequel, sometimes that “more” lacks a little bit of substance…

What we don’t like about the Reebok FloatZig 2

CHAD: So my biggest knock on this shoe is the fit, which I find to be off in so many ways. First, I think it runs a bit short, so even my US M12 felt small on me. Second, the midfoot tapers in significantly, and I found my arch incredibly sore after each run in this shoe because it didn’t have that much give. Third, while the midsole tapers in too much, the heels and forefoot felt very wide; and while I enjoy a wide forefoot, the wide heel made it feel like my foot was sliding around a bit side-to-side on the run. All-in-all, it didn’t lead to a very comfortable running experience.

Also, 10.4 ounces for a US M9 is pretty hefty, especially as brands are figuring out to shed weight anyway possible in their daily trainers. I didn’t weigh it, but I imagine my US M12 is at least 11.5 ounces, if not more. They probably could have shed weight by not having all of the extra padding on the outside of the shoes, a design element which made absolutely no sense to me.

ALEX: I’m blessed with incredibly medium-sized (US M9.5) feet in almost every way. I did not have any significant issues with the fit here. As stated earlier, I think the price point of the shoe affords some leniency in not being anything groundbreaking. Still, similar to its predecessor, I found the FloatZig 2 the perfect shoe for your 3-7 mile training run at an easy or medium pace. Anything longer and I would switch something with a bit more bounce. I expected the FloatZig 2 to be hot and have trouble drying when I first slipped it on, but running in sweaty Baltimore temps and light rain, it dried out fast and was ready for the next one.

RENALDO: I do like this shoe, but there is a lot going on that just leaves me scratching my head. Like I said, this time around, Reebok decided to get rid of the “all mesh” upper for something more in line with most trainers nowadays. Some paneling, sure, but a lot more actual “shoe” on foot than straight mesh. These extra panels create a very interesting issue when it comes to “creasing” in the shoe. Oftentimes, I pinch my pinky toe whenever I take a step that involves bending the toe.

Also, what are these protrusions? Airbags? Reebok, I appreciate it, but I’m not running on trails or into other runners. All this extra really makes the shoe rather busy. It’s enough that it makes me yearn for the simpler, more nostalgic look of the Floatzig 1 and even the X1. I think the guys hit all the technical failings of the shoe, even if I didn’t really find any, but being the fashionista I am, I’ve gotta come correct with the features on this one. Maybe put this one back in the oven a little longer, Reebok.

Final thoughts on the Reebok FloatZig 2

CHAD: Fit issues aside (which are largely personal problems because everyone’s feet are different), the Reebok FloatZig 2 provides a decently smooth ride at a bargain price of $120. I imagine if the shoe fits you well, you will certainly get your money’s worth.

ALEX: A UK heritage brand making an affordable daily trainer that looks good, changing some overall aesthetics but doing no harm in the process? I’ll take it. As an aging punk who sees more and more performance running shoes in the mosh pit, I’d happily wear the FloatZig 2 as I’m on my feet for the next hardcore fest as easily as I’d strap it on for a 5-miler. Reebok should stay the course with this one; not gonna start a revolution from my bed, but I won’t be looking back in anger either.

RENALDO: All in all, the Floatzig 2 is a great little shoe. Given Reebok’s resurgence, its position in the running market, and the position of other brands, I wouldn’t exactly bend to trends to try and make a shoe for “everyone.” Which is exactly what the FloatZig 2 feels like. For $120, this isn’t a bad choice to add to your rotation of trainers, but it won’t knock your socks off like the original.

You can pick up the Reebok FloatZig 2 for $120 from Reebok by using the buttons below.