Retro Tech: Wearables

TL;DR

Reebok Pumps from 1989 featured inflatable chambers for custom fit and energy return system for enhanced performance.

Transcript

All right, so, next up, we have the 1989 Reebok Pumps. The Reebok Pumps featured inflatable chambers fitted within the shoe that enabled the wearer to create a sort of custom fit by inflating or deflating the shoe. At the heel was the energy return system, which is a series of cylinders that Reebok claimed acted as springs, releasing ... Read More

Key Insights

• ↩️ Reebok Pumps from 1989 featured innovative technology like inflatable chambers and an energy return system.
• 🙂 Claims of enhanced performance were made, but actual improvements were slight in a vertical jump test.
• 🤨 Concerns were raised about the durability of the shoes during testing.

Questions & Answers

Q: What were the key features of the 1989 Reebok Pumps?

The Reebok Pumps had inflatable chambers for custom fit and an energy return system at the heel, acting as springs for energy release.

Q: Did the tester see an improvement in their vertical jump with the Reebok Pumps?

The tester saw a slight improvement in vertical jump height, going from 9'3" to 9'4" with the Reebok Pumps.

Q: Were there any concerns about the durability of the Reebok Pumps during testing?

There were concerns about the shoes exploding due to excessive pumping, raising questions about their durability.

Q: Did the tester recommend getting jumping lessons along with the Reebok Pumps?

The tester humorously suggested that the Reebok Pumps should be sold along with jumping lessons from instructors due to the early takeoffs seen during testing.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Reebok Pumps from 1989 had inflatable chambers for custom fit and an energy return system at the heel.

• Claims of enhanced performance were made due to the design.

• Testing showed slight improvements in vertical jump height.