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Relance Running Shoes RL-01 Review
Relance’s first running shoe, the RL-01, is an unusual approach to the sportswear market. Sure they want to make a supportive and responsive shoe but their unique proposition is that of an eco-friendly, locally-manufactured shoe. Yep, they are made in France/Eu rather than shipped across from factories in the Far East.
Relance has already surpassed their Kickstarter goal, so it seems like runners like their novel idea.
Relance RL-01 Review
Summary
These shoes feel sturdy and are well-made. They are decent, all-around running shoes that offer cushioning from both the sole and insole. I particularly liked the springy feel from the extra forefoot cushioning. Indeed, Relance translates to Relaunch.
Eco: The company’s eco-credentials are based on the reduced waste from the industrial knitting process used to produce the upper. There are also other eco-savings by siting the production in the EU rather than shipping shoes en masse from Asia by sea. To me, the biggest draw was the certainty that French-made shoes will not use the exploitative labour practices that apparel companies seem to regularly get caught supporting.
At 355g/shoe, these are not super-light shoes as an average running shoe weighs just under 300g. However, these are perfectly fine for your normal weekly training.
An 8mm heel-to-toe drop is on the lower side of normal and might favour faster runners but such a drop will discourage those of you wanting to be kinder to your calves.
The tread pattern seems to wear well and offered grip in all weathers.
Overall I enjoyed the Relance experience but the colour was too bright for me.
Pros
- Sensible cushioning vs. performance trade-off
- Eco credentials
- Ethical credentials are good
Cons
- The bold colour feels very French. Red, White & Blue are many nations’ colours
- Eco production methods result in a heavier shoe.
- >=8mm drop
Product Gallery
Relance RL-01 Cost, Availability & Discounts
Available in 4 colourways, the RL-01 is discounted when you buy multiple pairs
- 1 Pair – €120
- 2 Pairs – €195
Delivery is estimated as of December 2021.
Buy on Kickstarter (Crowdfunded project carry a risk)
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