With the release of Reebok’s Nano Gym 2.0, a lightweight shoe designed for a variety of isolation activities, we asked the brand’s director of training shoes, Tal Short, how Reebok can make such a low-impact sneaker that still provides support for our sweats.
How Reebok made the Nano Gym 2.0 20% lighter
Weighing in at 10.6oz (about 300g), Reebok’s second-generation gym shoe is about 20% lighter than the original, but as an “all-purpose” sneaker, how did the company maintain a rigorous training experience while offering swimming comfort? “We worked to streamline the design and remove any bulky or unnecessary materials that weren’t critical to the shoe’s performance,” says Short, who says stability remains key. “Specifically, the upper has been redesigned to have a locked-down fit with lightweight and durable breathable zones, while the midsole remains highly resilient and durable with spring-loaded foam. The deep flex outsole offers the gym’s extra grip and stability where it’s needed most,” he adds.
What is FLOATPULSE Foam and how does it improve performance?
For the uninitiated, Reebok’s Gym offering is designed as a gym shoe or as a hybrid shoe for busy people who change environments on time. To that end, the Reebok Gym 2.0 was designed to build on the comfort level of the original while adding the comfort of a lighter weight for extra portability. As Short stated, the engineered mesh upper is made even lighter, yet more durable, thanks to carefully placed breathability zones. But there’s another aspect of Gym 2.0 that delivers as much as it can. “I’m most excited about the FLOATPULSE Foam in the midsole,” reveals Short. “This ultra-responsive foam provides high energy return, so it supports explosive movements in the gym and can take an athlete’s training routine to the next level.”
Why Nano Gym 2.0 is made for HIIT, HYROX and functional fitness
Fitness sneakers are a growing product line among major footwear brands, and Reebok’s Nano iterations have long been hailed for their innovative achievements in the field. In particular, the Gym 2.0 is light and stable, but also able to offer flexibility thanks to its intelligently designed deep seam, designed with a large number of exercise movements in mind. The flex groove offers a rubber grip and strategically placed channels to provide greater flexibility when turning, jumping or standing still.
“The Nano Gym 2.0 offers the ultimate in versatility,” concludes Short. “Whether you need a reliable option for your regular gym routine, to try a new fitness class, or maybe just dip your toes into HYROX, you can do it all in style.”
The Reebok Nano Gym 2.0 will release on July 16, 2026 via Reebok.com with an MSRP of $100 and will be available in a variety of unisex colorways, with additional styles dropping throughout the summer.
