Reebok “Runs Through Everything”

Have you ever had that run where you feel unstoppable? Through the rain, through the snow (or even ice), through the blinding sun, whatever the challenge is…. you embrace it and have your mind set on running anyways.

While training for my half marathon, there were certainly days I had to psych myself up to go for a run. Other times, however, I couldn’t wait to get outside. Whether it’s to blow off steam, get some fresh air, or just break a sweat, running is an outlet I have always enjoyed as something I do for me.

There are a few things that make running a bit easier, though, and of them is wearing a good pair of running shoes.

I know what you’re thinking. I have received a handful of them over the last few months, and here comes another tangent about another shoe.

Well, you are partially right, but not completely. As an ambassador for FitFluential, I have built a partnership with Reebok and am now taking part in an ongoing campaign to test out and review their latest gear.

Yes, I promote their products on my site, however, I do not receive a dime to do it. Reebok is a brand I have come to love, trust, and want to share their products with you. When I receive something from them, I choose to make it a full review in hopes of helping readers find types of shoes and fitness gear that work for them.

(In case you missed it last month, check out Reebok’s guide of how to find the perfect fitness shoe for you!)

This month, Reebok showed me their tough side.

Dirt, gravel, sand, grass, and mud: meet your match.

The Reebok ATV19 is a new all-terrain running shoe designed with nineteen irregular lugs for maximum traction on all running surfaces.

My first thought when I saw them? Huh… weird.

My second thought? “Hey, those match that sports bra I’m obsessed with.”

I tried them on, and in doing so figured they would be a shoe I would strictly save to wear while running trails or competing in obstacle races.

I have plenty of other running shoes in my closet to grab, so I didn’t set the expectations for this pair too high.

A few days ago, I laced them up and set out on a trail run with Roadie. As soon as my feet hit the road, I thought… “Hmm, squishy.” I took a minute to snap a few photos (although somebody was getting a little impatient), and couldn’t get over how much it felt like I was bouncing off the ground during my warm-up walk.

My first few strides, I became pleasantly surprised. I felt like I had an extra pep in my step, and I liked it.

Running with Roadie always presents a few challenges. Besides him stopping about a million times to “potty” (I quote, because there are only so many times you can do that in a row), he also loves to run across me and into the grass at a moment’s notice. This forces me jump, dart, and pay extra attention to what is going on around me.

We often spot rabbits, squirrels, and even deer in our surrounding neighborhoods, which is always a real treat to restrain him from.

My point: runs with Roadie require tough running shoes.

With a full lining of lugs (or grips), they supported my need to stop and hold my ground wonderfully. While running with him, I often have to jump to the grass and keep my pace the same to get around people, other dogs, and bikes that cross our path. While I normally get nervous about slipping in the grass, I had zero worries this time around.

When we got to the trail, I loved how the lugs handled the gravel. I thoroughly enjoy running trails, and now that it is summer time I plan to visit more in our area.

I legit felt like I could run through anything. A pile of rocks, sticks, leaves, whatever crossed my path, I felt like I could crush it, and it felt awesome.

For a little while there, I pictured myself as Godzilla who could take over the city and step on anything! Ha. Oh, the things we let our minds wander off to while exercising.

Overall Review

I am very pleased with these all-terrain running sneakers! I have to admit that when I saw them I didn’t want to give them the time of day. I felt like I didn’t really need them.

After running in them a few times, they have become one of my favorite pairs of running shoes I have ever tried! Really. Running through rough patches or not, I really like how cushioned my soles feel, and it seems like they would be great to wear for almost anything.

I had a few people comment on a photo I posted of them saying they aren’t necessarily a runner but are interested in this shoe. Considering their comfort factor alone, I say these would be great to stand or walk in during a full day of work.

Don’t let the bulk and lugs intimidate you, either. I got over it quickly and learned to love them!

Question of the Day

Have you ever tried out a pair of running or walking shoes that completely surprised you?

(At first glance, they looked weird or unappealing, but you tried them on anyways?)

How did they work out for you?