Reebok Launches a Nike Free Knock-Off

Just like your bare feet!

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, you know...

"Run, jump, stretch, it’s time to move naturally again…"

Again? That implies that we stopped moving naturally... Along around the time we all started wearing sneakers instead of going barefoot, I suppose...

"...'Barefoot or natural running makes a lot of sense from a biomechanics standpoint because all the shock absorption happens in your muscles, not your joints,' said Reebok’s Head of Advanced Innovation, Bill McInnis. 'The problem is that natural running works best in the natural world, not on man-made surfaces. In creating RealFlex technology, we took everything that works with natural running and made it work in today’s world. Simply put, RealFlex is natural movement perfected.'..."

Wow, not just "innovation", but "advanced innovation"! More marketing BS, but welcome to the party, guys.

"...RealFlex features 76 independent sensors on the bottom of the shoe strategically positioned to twist, bend, expand, and support to help athletes’ feet move naturally. The sensors work together throughout the athlete’s stride to help provide all the benefits of barefoot running, while helping to eliminate all the negatives that come with running on hard surfaces. The result -- the natural movement your foot biomechanically needs, with the protection to keep the foot safe from everyday elements.

"When your foot moves naturally, it doesn’t just flex in the forefoot, it flexes throughout the entire foot. Each sensor provides a specific purpose underfoot. For example, the sensors in the heel are joined together to provide optimum heel impact absorption while running downhill. On the lateral side of the shoe, the sensors work together to offer stability. Up in the forefoot, the sensors are linked together to provide impact protection...."

Oh my goodness, the marketing BS needle just hit the red zone!  Too funny.

It's progress, I just wish it wasn't so painful to watch.

They've conceded the legitimacy of the barefoot argument, now they just need a product to sell.  This thing is a bit of a mess, IMHO, but it's a start.

Here's Birthday Shoes on the RealFlex, with better pictures (as usual).

P.S. PR finds the true horror of the RealFlex.  Video at the link.  Although it does make me think that those cleats; sorry, sensors; sorry, little pink buddies, might be decent for mud.