Why such a product?
For this article we obtained two models: an older Salomon RX Reelax Break 4.0 and a contemporary Salomon Reelax Break 6.0. Both are very similar, but the newer has minor tweaks.
The shoes have a very interesting niche – they are a bit more than regular flip flops due to the enhanced construction with toe guard, also the sole has a sneaker feeling to it. So this product bridges the gap between regular flip flops and sneakers by combining characteristics from both.
Salomon Reelax Break – clickable link to the product (affiliate)
This review was not sponsored or endorsed by any vendors or manufacturers.
Looks
The looks are awesome and sporty, all of the colors are vibrant. People usually notice these shoes when you go out. However, they are far from classy or casual-smart, so for venues where this type of attire is required – the Salomon shoes may not work.
Construction, feel and comfort
Deep cushion, decent arch support (considering these are flip flops), outstanding side support due to the toe guard, snug fit.
The snug and the support are so advanced, that in general they don’t feel like flip flops, but more like sandals, since there is no typical flip flop wobble. Unlike most flip flops, it is possible to use these for long distances, but due to the inherent flip flop construction some sores start to appear the more you travel, 5-6 km is generally safe, but more and more sore spots start to appear when you travel above 10 km per day. The weight is above average, which is required to accommodate this type of construction.
Grip and stability
Very stable on slippery surfaces, dirt tracks, gravel and sand. They don’t have a hiking type of grip, but rather a grip that is on par with typical reliable running shoes. Outstanding foot stability when comparing to typical slippers and flip flops, however not as stable as enclosed shoes or sandals with a heel support, after all these are still flip flops and they have their limitations. Unlike most flip flops, it is actually possible to run in these even on rough surfaces (though not recommended due to the risk of damaging your toes, I did it, and broke my toenail to a stone, which did hurt pretty bad 🙁 ).
Durability
Extremely durable. I’ve used them for four years with day to day usage during Summers and the shoes are still perfectly fine. The soles are close to impossible to wear down. The only weak spot is the fabric that connects the harness and the sole. Breaking or cutting this fabric will instantly make the shoes unusable.
Break in
The time to break them in is surprisingly long. The materials used are highly durable, which looks like is the reason it takes a few months to have the shoes properly brake in.
Sizing
These shoes are very different from all the others. It is crucial to try them first. One size larger or smaller will not work like with most other flip flops. The construction with toe guard is very peculiar and requires an exact size match. It is possible to have them one size bigger, but the shoes will flap, wobble and underperform. One size smaller is close to impossible to wear since the sole wedge will grind into your feet.
Price
The shoes were bought for $40 sale price, which was a steal. The usual selling price for them is around ~$65 which isn’t cheap but is still ok for what you get. However in recent months during a Spring season 2024 we noticed prices going above $80 which may indicate a shortage of supply and generally high demand for these shoes since they are quite unique with very few alternatives.
Reelax Break 4.0 vs 6.0
The shoes are very similar, and share most of the characteristics. The newer updated 6.0 model has a slightly deeper cushion which provides even better foot support, stability, toe protection and dampening. Apart from cushion the product feels the same. It seems the task was not to spoil the already perfect thing and to optimize it cautiously.
Additional info
No rubber smell, which indicates good rubber quality. No squeaky sounds on flat marble floors, a problem that is present is some shoes depending on the rubber chosen for production.
Pros
- Sole with toe guard
- Snug fit, no wobble
- Looks
- Suitable for running
- Can be used for light hiking / trekking (as a secondary pair of shoes)
- Can be used for long distances 8-14km per day (though not recommended, will cause sores)
- Have sneaker-like qualities
- Highly durable
- Good on a slippery surfaces
- Silent on flat/marble surfaces
- No rubber smell
Cons
- Relatively heavy
- Price
- May cause sores due to weight
- Size has to be a proper fit for the construction to work. Oversize/undersize will not work
- Take a while to break in
Conclusions
A potential buyer of these shoes is an active person, a person who probably likes to travel and wants to have a spare pair of slippers that can perform if needed.
A hiker who needs flip flops for occasional rest during trekking.
A Summer city traveler who wants to feel some air over the toes and wants to avoid enclosed shoes, or maybe wants a spare pair of slides that can be taken for longer distances than just a hotel territory.
A person who generally wears slippers, flip flops or sandals and is in search of something reliable, reputable and comfy.
Salomon Reelax Break – clickable link to the product
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