Reebok debuts ZigTech - Former NASA engineer uses technology to invent new
standard in running/training footwear

MONTREAL, March 11 /CNW Telbec/ - What would you do if you had more energy? Run faster? Train longer? Reebok allows athletes to find out with the launch of ZigTech, the brand's most technically advanced running and training shoe. ZigTech technology reduces wear and tear in key leg muscles by up to 20% allowing you to train harder for longer. Simply put, it's an energy drink for your feet.

Everything about Reebok's ZigTech technology is designed to conserve and return energy to the athlete for a soft and springy ride. The one-of-a-kind ZigTech bottom unit features an innovative, lightweight foam that is engineered into a dramatic, geometric, zig-zag shape. This unique zig-shaped sole absorbs the impact of heel strike and sends a wave of energy along the length of the shoe propelling the athlete forward with each step.

"Shin splints are extremely common for pro athletes like me," said NFL superstar Peyton Manning. "Wearing ZigTechs give players a bounce, an energy that lets us train longer with less strain on key leg muscles, like shins. This ultimately enables athletes to stay healthier during the season."

The team behind the technology is led by Bill McInnis, Reebok's Head of Advanced Innovation who explained how the shoe works. Bill said, "Traditional energy return is focused only on the vertical impact of the heel strike. In contrast, ZigTech is designed to transfer energy horizontally along the zig-zags so the athlete gets that energy back in the forefoot."

The lightweight, flexible bottom unit, combined with a minimalist upper and whisper-quiet ground contact also contribute to making ZigTech a new standard in running and training footwear. In fact, by wearing Reebok's ZigTech footwear, training longer just got easier. The technology results in up to 20% less wear and tear on key leg muscles, especially the shins and hamstrings.

Reebok's ZigTech footwear collection is available for men and women in an array of bold, bright colours that will make you truly stand out in the gym and on the court, field or track.

Manning is joined by last year's Super Bowl MVP Santonio Holmes, 2008 Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning, World Series star pitcher Andy Pettitte, Cy Young Award winner Tim Lincecum, Stanley Cup winner Sidney Crosby, NHL All-Star Alexander Ovechkin, boxing great "Sugar" Shane Mosley, basketball icon Allen Iverson, homerun king David Ortiz, Formula One racing driver Lewis Hamilton, soccer standouts Thierry Henry and Ryan Giggs, plus hundreds more athletes who will be able to train harder and longer thanks to this innovative new technology from Reebok.

"Reebok has always been committed to innovation," said Uli Becker, Reebok's Global President. "ZigTech is the latest example of how we continue to deliver products that reset the bar and move the fitness and training world forward in a new and exciting way."

ZigTech debuts at major retailers including Sport Chek, FootLocker and Sports Experts on March 11, 2010 for a suggested price of $119,99. The launch will be supported by a major marketing campaign including TV, print and online advertising.

About Reebok

Reebok International Ltd., headquartered in Canton, MA, USA, is a leading worldwide designer, marketer and distributor of sports, fitness and casual footwear, apparel equipment. A subsidiary of adidas Group, the company operates under the multiple divisions of the Reebok brand, Reebok-CCM Hockey and the Sports Licensed Division. For more information, visit Reebok at www.reebok.com

For further information: Chantal Morin, Exacto Communications, [phone] ext: 226, [email protected]