Reebok’s Nano X3 Includes Technology Designed for Lifting and Running

Lift and Run Chassis System in the new Reebok Nano
NANO
The X3 training shoe is more than just a clever name. It’s an attempt to bring technology into the trainer to match what’s happening now in fitness and lifting and running.

The 13^Th The iteration of the Nano series, starting Feb. 10 like the Nano X3, it has a new car, a project that is almost four years in the making. “It’s been really interesting to see how all the courses have changed and we’ve had to adapt,” says Tal Short, Reebok’s senior project manager. “The education user is very different and wants flexibility in their life.”

In the past, Reebok found consumers would choose a running shoe or a lifting shoe. The Reebok X3 closes the gap for running, wearability and all-day comfort. “People don’t want to change shoes,” he says, “they want to put on a shoe and go. Strength training is coming back and building muscle and cooling again and we feel the Nano is the best shoe.”

The challenge the designers had to overcome was to create a shoe that provided cushioning for running, walking or jumping but with the stability required for lifting. “The best running shoe and running shoe are in different parts,” Short says. “How do we get that in one shoe? The Lift and Run chassis method.”

An important part of the system is the TPU dome that sits under the heel. That dome connects to the fixed piece of the heel and the plate that runs on the floor, which is also a new part of the Nano line, designed to increase lateral and torsional support and forward acceleration. When the wearer picks up a heavy load, such as during a squat, the force pushes the dome shape to collapse and create a strong and stable platform. Whenever the dome is not loaded, the brand’s leading technology, Floatride Energy Foam, cushions the dome to keep the shoe comfortable.

“We don’t sacrifice one side or the other,” Short says. “It’s like a flexible piece in there. You want to be as stable as possible, and you don’t want to move around. The most important thing about the Nano is that it’s a very strong shoe. Floatride is soft when you need it. And the chassis is tough when you need it.”

For nearly four years the team researched several designs and materials, and tested them to make sure the design was sound and functional. He said: “It was very difficult to do it.” “We’re excited to get it out there.”

Short says that while the Nano X3 is not a shoe for runners only and may not be the choice for those looking to focus on the max-rep max, it achieves the goal of providing a shoe “that can do it all. It’s a shoe for someone who wants the best of both worlds.” [lifting and running] it’s amazing in the middle.”

Reebok continues to evolve its FlexWeave upper, which was first introduced in the Nano 7, a unique technique that provides a flexible, lightweight, breathable, but with the strength and durability needed for a training shoe.

The outsole includes a new tread pattern designed to increase grip on hard surfaces and improve durability.

Nano X3 also focuses on comfort and beauty. Short says they’ve optimized the collar’s comfort and will feature 25 different colors throughout the season to ensure consumers have options. With a wide selection, Reebok will feature everything from bright and sporty colors – a popular training option – to lifestyle-driven styles. “Consumer education is everywhere,” Short says. “Some want to blend in, and some want to stand.”

With all this attention to the silhouette – from the activity to the decoration – Reebok hopes to keep the Nano franchise as an important player in training. “Of course, we’re on our 13th^Th one,” Short says. “Not many franchises get there. Creating this training shoe that does it all is very difficult. “