Zig Kinetica II Sneaker From Reebok Has Been Upgraded With Gore-Tex Weatherproofing

The Zig Kinetica II shoe from Reebok may be one of the brand's best, helping it climb out of the hole Adidas dug for it. The futuristic shoe has been included in some of Reebok's most successful collaborations, such as with fellow streetwear labels Brain Dead and Cottweiler, and has even been dubbed an "underrated" sneaker.

Reebok has upgraded the Zig Kinetica II to endure any weather as winter approaches — and perhaps more storm floods — by adding a thick Gore-Tex top to the sneaker, which now appears more like a boot. The sports sneakers, which come in monochrome black and white color schemes, now include slip-proof and waterproof characteristics while still looking remarkably fashionable.

The Gore-Tex Zig Kinetica II has been reinvented with loads of technical design elements, including a spiked outsole. The conventional low-top upper is replaced by a sturdy ripstop-looking upper that stretches upward like a boot. Zipper closures, ankle straps, and two lockdown straps wrap around the heels, mid-foot, and forefoot, harkening back to the funky detailing on the original shoe.

The medial sides of the stable sneaker — if you can call it that anymore — are covered with oversized Gore-Tex logos, and the front is secured by six cables. The distinctive sole design of the Zig Kinetica II hasn't changed, but it's now reinforced with significant Vibram traction to get you through any conditions.

Reebok's Zig Kinetica II Edge Gore-Tex, which comes in a practical "Core Black" and a mod "Chalk" version, is a useful yet trendy shoe — and owing to Reebok's dreadful image, the sneaker boot will likely be devoid of hype and simple to get by. Still, if Reebok chooses to maintain distributing clean sneakers rather than revert to a cash-grabbing partnership, their streamlined design suggests a brighter future for the company.

The Zig Kinetica II Edge Gore-Tex shoe has only one drawback: The sneaker boot, like much stylish outdoor gear, is exclusively available in Japan. The tough sneaker, which costs $20,900 (about $190), is a touch pricey, but not nearly as much as a proxy service. Still, you'll be able to justify your purchase the next time the weather turns bad - and you'll look nice doing it.