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The Reebok Floatride Energy 6 embraces nostalgia, offering a simple, classic trainer that delivers practicality and affordability. While it doesn't excel in any one area, it's a well-rounded and firm shoe suitable for runners seeking reliability. With a 6 mm drop, it caters to those looking for a lower-drop option that balances versatility and comfort. This shoe isn't designed to fill niche gaps in a runner's collection but is geared to be an everyday trainer for budget-conscious athletes. Its no-frills design and dependable performance make it a reliable choice for runners who value simplicity and functionality in their gear.
REASONS TO BUY
Affordable
Simplistic
Practical
Versatile
REASONS TO AVOID
Boring
Less comfortable
Lacks energy return
Our testers evaluated the Floatride Energy 5 last season and found results similar to this season's model. While neither version left us in awe, both deliver reliability, comfort, and versatility. The 6th iteration brings improved breathability, albeit with a slight increase in weight. For runners prioritizing budget over the latest features, the 5th version may be the more cost-effective option that delivers equal performance
While not a standout shoe, it offers enough underfoot cushion and stability to present an acceptable value
Even with a few minor updates, this shoe shines as one for runners seeking a do-it-all road running companion
Affordable and minimally-minded, the updated Kinvara is a great everyday shoe that is suitable for a myriad of running situations
This affordable, low-profile running shoe is a good choice for beginners, offering a moderate stack, traditional drop, and a touch of bounce
While not suited for specified running, this shoe offers versatility and reliability for daily activities and moderate workouts
Rating Categories
Reebok Floatride En...
Asics Novablast 5 -...
Saucony Kinvara 15...
Asics Gel-Contend 9...
New Balance Fresh F...
Landing Comfort(30%)
7.0
9.0
7.5
6.0
6.0
Responsiveness(20%)
5.5
7.0
7.5
5.0
5.5
Stability(15%)
7.0
8.0
7.0
7.5
6.0
Upper Comfort(15%)
6.0
8.0
6.5
7.0
6.5
Weight(15%)
5.2
5.6
9.1
5.6
6.3
Traction(5%)
6.5
6.5
7.0
7.0
8.0
Specs
Reebok Floatride En...
Asics Novablast 5 -...
Saucony Kinvara 15...
Asics Gel-Contend 9...
New Balance Fresh F...
Sizes Available
6 - 11 US, regular
5 - 12 US
regular, wide
5 - 12 US,
regular
5 - 12 US, regular
5 - 12 US, regular & wide
Style
Daily Trainer
Daily trainer
Daily Trainer
Daily Trainer
Daily Trainer
Measured Heel Stack Height
28 mm
40 mm
27 mm
30 mm
26 mm
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop
6 mm
9 mm
3 mm
9 mm
8 mm
Plate Type
Nylon X
None
None
None
None
Rocker Angle
25.0 deg
26.5 deg
25.0 deg
28.0 deg
26.5 deg
Rocker Apex Location
54.2%
61.9%
64.7%
58.7%
54.5%
Measured Weight
7.52 oz
7.30 oz
5.44 oz
7.26 oz
6.90 oz
Upper
Mesh
Jacquard mesh
Mesh
Jacquard mesh
Mesh
Midsole
Floatride Energy Foam
FF BLAST MAX
PWRRUN
AMPLIFOAM+
Fresh Foam
Outsole
Rubber
AHAR LO
Rubber
Rubber
Rubber
Heel Tab Type
None
Finger loop
None
Finger loop
None
Show full specification details ▼Hide full specification details ▲
Our Analysis and Test Results
The 6 mm drop feels subtle when combined with a total stack of 28 mm. The grounded forefoot of the Floatride Energy may lack the cushioning that some runners desire for distance runs.
Performance Comparsion
The Floatride Energy is a standby shoe. It does what you need it to without providing anything in abudance.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Landing Comfort
The Reebok Floatride Energy 6 is firm and low to the ground. Its forefoot sits at 22 mm above the ground, and its heel at 28 mm. The Floatride Energy foam and plate (allegedly made of nylon, but unconfirmed by the manufacturer) offer a firm buffer between your feet and the ground, but the sensation is far from plush. The landing comfort that this shoe provides is reliable without being overly comfortable. All told, the Floatride Energy is comfortable enough for distance, but it isn't going to be a standout choice for marathon training.
Firm and low, this shoe will not appeal to runners who want to jump onto the maximalism train.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Responsiveness
The Floatride Energy lacks the technology and midsole bounce to be considered a responsive shoe. Its plate adds a comfortable rigidity to its undercarriage, giving a moderate launchpad feeling to the ride. This won't be a shoe that runners reach for on speed-focused days, but it is simple enough to wear during sporadic strides.
Though not necessarily built for speed, the Floatride Energy includes a nylon plate for a bit of propulsion.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Stability
The nylon X-shaped plate (again, allegedly but very likely) of the Floatride is apparent when it comes to guiding stability. The shape and style of the plate help prevent lateral wiggles when fatigue starts to set in. Contributing to the stability of Floatride is its moderate 6 mm drop and low profile. The elements of the Floatride come together to create a pretty versatile stability shoe.
Not only does the plate add a baby bit of propulsion to this shoe, but it aids in creating a stable ride.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Upper Comfort
The upper of the Floatride Energy is simply designed with a single layer of mesh across the toe box. The tongue is thinly padded, offering a comfortable layer between the lace bed and the foot inside the shoe. The heel collar is classically designed with a bit of extra height extending up the Achilles. The upper comfort of this shoe doesn't enamor me, but I also don't have anything super specific to complain about. The upper doesn't run, run too hot, or have any outstanding qualities.
The upper of this shoe kicks it old school. There is nothing crazy cool about it, but there isn't anything complaint-worthy, either.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Weight
A women's size 6.5 Floatride 6 weighs 7.52 ounces, which is slightly heavier than the 5th generation version (0.22 ounces heavier). The weight is predictable for a shoe of this caliber. It isn't a lightweight shoe designed for optimal speeds, but it also isn't a heavy, highly-cushioned distance shoe.
The Floatride Energy is a shoe that is suitable for daily wear and its moderate weight ranking reflects this.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Traction
Like many mid-weight road running shoes, the Floatride's additional weight comes with the benefit of secure traction. Its varied outsole pattern provides a lug-like feel underfoot, delivering stability and grip that inspires confidence on damp surfaces. This design helps maintain a solid connection to the ground. Whether tackling light rain or slick pavement, the outsole's thoughtful construction ensures runners can focus on their stride without worrying about losing footing.
The outsole of the Floatride Energy is adorned with small lugs that help bite down onto paved surfaces.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Should You Buy the Reebok Floatride Energy 6?
Even when pitted against some of the most technical, high-scoring shoes on the market, the Floatride Energy represents serious value. For less than some of the leading options, runners have access to a versatile, reliable, old-school style trainer. The Floatride isn't a shoe I recommend across the board, but it does make a good daily trainer for runners who want to keep things affordable.
This shoe may not be a standout, but its appealing value and reliable performance make it a solid choice for getting the job done.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
What Other Road Running Shoes Should You Consider?
When surveying the balance between price and function, the Saucony Kinvara 15 stands leagues above the rest. With peppy, resilient foam, a profoundly lightweight profile, and an affordable price, the Kinvara is our go-to recommendation for budget-conscious runners. This season, we've added a few more affordable options to our lineup. While most of the budget buys don't shine as brightly as the Kinvara, the Under Armour Charged Assert 10 and the Asics Gel Contend 9 are also two reliable, budget-friendly options to consider. The Brooks Trace 3 is a stellar buy that offers Brooks' classic comfort in an affordable package.
