Floatride Energy 3

The upper on the RFE3 is a tad less spacious than the 2 but I still wear the same size and the lock down is pretty similar. I lace up tight and still notice that the lateral support is a bit lacking but not so bad that I'm in pain, just noticeable enough to limit using too often on recovery days after a workout.

I noticed it's a "neutral" but some have mentioned its got some maybe light stability built in. If it is truly a neutral...is there a similar shoe in their lineup that has light stability?

The Symmetros feels more supportive to me but it's just an ok shoe to me, I think the heel stack is too high for my taste and also the heel feels firmer compared to the forefoot which is kind of strange.

I have about 75 miles in the FE3. The laces are much better. I didn't like the thick laces of the v2 or Symmetros. The upper is an improvement over v2. It is thinner and feels less restrictive , but still keeps the foot locked down well enough. It feels like it has more room than the v2, but I did go a half size down in the v2 and am true to size in the FE3. So I am comparing different sizes technically.

The FE3 definitely feels bouncier than previous versions. The heel to toe transition feels very smooth due to the heel bevel, i think. I feel more comfortable picking up the pace in these vs previous versions, although it still isn't a workout shoe for me. Shoes like the Zoom Fly FK, Endorphin Speed, Tempo NEXT% are my preferred WO shoes.

I agree that the Symmetros is only an OK shoe. I use it mostly for recovery runs and easy runs when I feel I need more cushioning. The FE3 >>> Symmetros. The actual weight difference isn't huge, but the FE3 just feels much lighter and less clunky on the foot.

In Reebok's line I think the Floatride Panthea might be a more stable shoe. The Floatride+ (PEBA) foam provides good energy return and the EVA rim and lower to ground feel makes the shoe feel pretty stable and responsive.

Hi jvarunner,

Interesting you say the Symmetros is an okay shoe. I think its more than just okay. I know someone who prefers the Symmetros over the FE3, as they see the Symmetros as more responsive (as its firmer) and better for longer runs because of being more cushioned.

Cheers

Steve

Interesting thoughts jvarunner - pretty much the opposite of mine lolg. I've only been for one run in Floatride 3's but for me I'm a little disappointed so far. Hopefully that will change.

Felt a bit dead and significantly less bouncy than my Floatride 2's. Also 20 grams heavier in my size (10.5). I've been using my Floatride 2's as a tempo/workout shoe but I don't see these ones being so good for that - which is particularly disappointing.

I've seen many people/reviewers saying they feel a little softer but I didn't notice that at all. Heel transition is a little nicer but that doesn't make up for everything else. I've also got quite a wide foot and the 2's fit me perfectly but the 3's are just an ok fit for me.

That said, I've only been for one run with them. It was on a very thin layer of snow on a cold day. Hopefully I begin to enjoy them more.

The softness and bounciness could be dependent on footstrike.

According to the Doctors of Running review , "I like Floatride Energy Foam, but the extra amount, particularly at the heel, felt very soft at first. I was worried it was too soft, but the midsole seems to match what you need depending on the pace. The ride is certainly on the softer side at the heel and is still soft but firms up slightly in the forefoot."

I should clarify, I think the Symmetros is only "OK" for me. I definitely think it is a well made shoe. I just strongly prefer a lower stack height, more responsiveness and a lighter feeling shoe for daily training. So my personal preferences shape my view of the shoe.

jvarunner wrote:

1st Run, 7 miles at 7:20 pace (easy).

Feels like slightly more stack height and cushioning than the FFE 1 or 2. I will measure with a caliper at school tomorrow. They feel a tad more bouncy than the FFE 1 or 2. The upper is more comfortable and breathable than previous versions. .

More bouncy than the FFE 1. This is exciting. The FFE 1 was so bouncy for a shoe that could be found for under $100.