Saturday, March 19, 2011

A Reebok RunTones Review

The market for "toning shoes" is as hot as black asphalt in the Texas summer heat.  On a recent trip to Designer Shoe Warehouse, I found an entire half-aisle devoted to all types of toners: Skechers, Reebok, New Balance, etc.

Toning shoes at DSW
Do these shoes really do that much?  I blogged about my first experience with Reebok EasyTones last March.  In short, I like them but I don't think they're going to give you that hot, Kim Kardsashian or Cameron Diaz booty overnight.  I don't believe you'll get cut calves and quads simply by wearing them.

Reebok RunTone
I'm on my second pair of Reebok "toning" shoes, this time the RunTone vs the EasyTone.  I love them but not for the reasons you might think.

Plainly put, I like the cushion that the balance ball pods provide.  I use these shoes for running errands, cardio on machines, lifting weights and taking classes at the gym. The balance pods just feel good on my feet and for the average daily workout I do, they are my new favorite shoe.


Reebok claims the RunTone will "tone and strengthen key leg muscles with every run."  I don't necessarily buy that.  I tested the toning claim by running a quick three miles in them and didn't feel any differently or sore the next day.  I have dedicated shoes I use for running and prefer those for the stability and support they provide. 

I'm not picking on the Reebok line for its lack of actual "toning".  Skechers ShapeUps, New Balance toners, all of them are the basically the same.  I think they're great if you like to wear them but don't expect a new body by putting them on your feet.

I posted a vlog about my new RunTones on my YouTube channel as well.  Check it out.
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1 comment on "A Reebok RunTones Review "
  1. Dr. BrettMarch 19, 2011 at 10:07 AM

    I think a more rounded profile across the bottom of the sole makes for more toning, but for people that do more standing and walking than running or fitness. They don't allow you to stand flat and engage calf and leg muscles in order to keep balanced. This doesn't work very well for running or fitness, though, so the effect is muted in shoes that offer enough stability to train in. You're right, though--no free lunch!

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