VIV Tested: Reebok’s New RunTone Shoe

Actor Rosario Dawson puts Reebok's RunTone to the test.

We recently attended a celeb-studded Hollywood shindig for Reebok’s latest shoe debut. While the camera crews were focused on Reebok-clad celebs such as Rosario Dawson, Emmy Rossum and Ashlee Simpson-Wentz, we had our eyes on Reebok’s new RunTone.

The RunTone promises similar benefits as cousin shoe EasyTone, the butt-boosting walking shoe we reported on last year. But it’s designed with enough stability to make running, jogging and lateral moves (as in low-impact aerobics) safe. The first thing we noticed when we slipped the RunTones on was their delightful cushiness. It felt like we were floating on air — which we kind of were, trainer Yumi Lee explained. Eight air pods are built into the sole of the RunTone to increase energy absorption with every step. “The effects are similar to running barefoot on sand,” says Lee.

When we later tried the RunTones in a low-impact aerobics class, they were comfortable but didn’t seem to add much challenge. However, when we ran and walked in them the next day, it did feel a bit more difficult. And, indeed, the shoes are much more stable than the EasyTones, which feature larger pods that cause a wobble-board effect, intentionally throwing you slightly off balance.

We asked Pete McCall, an exercise physiologist (and fellow shoe obsessor) with the American Council on Exercise, for his professional take. McCall explained that the normal mechanics of the human foot do function most effectively when moving over softer surfaces such as grass, sand and dirt. The natural surfaces allow enough foot flexibility so that the full spectrum of leg, hip and foot muscles and joints come into play. With a stiff shoe or an unforgiving surface such as concrete, we’re shortchanged a bit because there’s not enough give for a full range of motion.

Thus, the theory behind RunTones makes sense, says McCall. “Still, I don’t think the extra muscle activation [with the shoes] is enough to expend significantly more energy,” he adds. On its side, Reebok hasn’t made any specific claims as far as number of extra calories you might burn, only that you’ll get a better workout.

McCall’s bottom line: Any shoe that is so comfortable that it encourages people to up their exercise is the perfect shoe. Do you agree?