Nike Air Zoom SuperRep review (early verdict): these workout shoes are a HIIT

Designed specifically for high intensity interval training, the first member of the Nike SuperRep family has a fresher look than you at the end of the class

Nike SuperRep trainer
(Image credit: Nike)

Nike has just announced its newest range of performance footwear, the Nike SuperRep family, said to "respond to the specifications of a particular type of workout, be it a boot camp or spin class". The first entry in this rather specific range of shoes is the Nike Air Zoom SuperRep, which was "built specifically for the rigours of high-intensity [HIIT workout] classes". It’s one of the best workout shoes we’ve tried, so long as you’re a HIIT addict. 

According to Nike, "the design of the Nike Air Zoom SuperRep takes into account hundreds of hours spent sweating it out, studying and observing fitness classes. In those classes, it became apparent that athletes were either wearing shoes that were cushioned or shoes that were supportive, but there wasn't a shoe that provided both cushioning and support specific to fundamental HIIT movements."

We tested it during a 30-minute conditioning workout, and now we've got out breath back, here's our early verdict. Very early – you can't glean much about a shoe after half an hour – but so far we're impressed.

Nike Air Zoom SuperRep

The Nike SuperRep combines support and cushioning required for HIIT workouts

(Image credit: Nike)

Using Zoom Air cushioning in the forefoot not only makes the shoes look dynamic, but it also helps provide impact protection and a responsiveness. The quite noticeable 'burpee break' in the middle initially seemed like a major concern when it comes to how these shoes will roll. We can confirm the arch provides just the right amount of 'give' while distributing your weight from the heel to the ball of your foot. 

Separating the two actually provides the shoe with a greater degree of flexibility than normal, thicker-soled conditioning shoes, which was a pleasant surprise. The top of the shoe is comprised of ribbed, breathable mesh, which will be familiar to fans of Nike's existing cross-training shoes. It's light, flexible and (crucially) allows air to flow in and out of the shoe, avoiding post-workout stinky feet syndrome. 

The Nike Air Zoom SuperRep also introduces an unmistakable signature mark — an exaggerated arc design near the ball of the foot — that carries into the SuperRep family's other two initial styles, the Nike SuperRep Cycle and Nike SuperRep Go. Together, the trio of shoes form a base for Nike SuperRep that will build throughout 2020 and beyond.

The Nike Air Zoom SuperRep launches December 17 for Nike Members in Europe and will be available January 2 on nike.com and at select retailers. The Nike SuperRep Go releases in April and the Nike SuperRep Cycle follows in summer.

Nike Air Zoom SuperRep

No matter what an intense HIIT workout has to throw at you, the Nike SuperRep will be there for your feet

(Image credit: Nike)
Matt Kollat
Section Editor | Active

Matt Kollat is a journalist and content creator who works for T3.com and its magazine counterpart as an Active Editor. His areas of expertise include wearables, drones, fitness equipment, nutrition and outdoor gear. He joined T3 in 2019. His byline appears in several publications, including Techradar and Fit&Well, and more. Matt also collaborated with other content creators (e.g. Garage Gym Reviews) and judged many awards, such as the European Specialist Sports Nutrition Alliance's ESSNawards. When he isn't working out, running or cycling, you'll find him roaming the countryside and trying out new podcasting and content creation equipment.