Sometimes Things Really Are Black and White: Reebok Princess Sneakers

I have been wearing this Reebok brand, style, and colors for over thirty years—they were first introduced in the 1980s. I have replaced them only a couple of times since the

first pairs. They last a really long time if you take care of them! I do not recall how much they cost when I first found them at the Reebok outlet in Nashville. However, I bought a pair in 2018, and the price was $19.95. After a coupon, the total I paid was only $14.88!

Receipt for Reebok Sneakers

The soles began to separate this past month, so I bought some Gorilla Glue for a quick repair. They are holding up pretty well. However, I noticed my soles getting thin lately. I decided I would jump on Amazon and see if they are still available. Wow, the price has increased, and the cheapest I can find is $47.29! Even on the Reebok website, they are $55.00!! I am really disappointed that they have become unaffordable for me!

I once tried a different brand, and they lacked the comfort, lightweight, and minimalist style that I enjoy in my footwear. These shoes are my daily footwear, but I must admit, I rarely wore shoes for the last four years, and when I did, they were flip-flops. Since starting my goal of going outside daily in September of 2024, I also began wearing shoes every day in anticipation of going back to work as a substitute. Although the job did not work out, I kept up wearing these sneakers.

This has been especially helpful after starting my walking program and mowing my own lawn, both of which started in March. I wore one pair or the other daily when I was working as a substitute from 2003 - 2021. I tried to find other casual shoes to wear for my job, but nothing felt right once I bought them home. The black shoes are great when I wear jeans or pants. They blend in well and look less like sneakers than the white style. The white style is my go-to for everyday casual shorts wear. It is really difficult to find shoes—especially in the size and width I need—9.5 Wide. Reebok Princess had it all!

A Closer Look

The Reebok Princess Wide D sneakers are known for their timeless, low-profile silhouette that makes them a staple for both casual and professional settings. Unlike bulky athletic shoes, these sneakers have a sleek and refined appearance, making them versatile enough to pair with a range of outfits. The synthetic leather upper gives them a smooth and clean finish, making them easy to wipe down and maintain over time.

One of the standout features of these shoes is the soft terry cloth lining, which provides a lightweight and breathable feel. This lining is designed to wick away moisture, keeping feet comfortable even during extended wear. It adds a slight cushioning effect, reducing friction and preventing irritation—something I appreciate, especially when wearing them for long hours. My feet never feel hot when wearing these sneakers—even for long hours.

The cushioned insole and padded foam sock liner create a plush feel underfoot. Unlike many other sneakers that require a break-in period, these feel comfortable right out of the box. The arch support is moderate, which works well for people who prefer a neutral, unrestrictive fit without excessive contouring.

Another major reason I have stayed loyal to this style is the durable rubber outsole. The material is flexible but sturdy, allowing for natural foot movement without feeling stiff. The flat, even sole design provides excellent stability, making them ideal for walking, standing for long periods, and even light physical activity. The lack of excessive grooves or deep tread patterns prevents dirt from getting trapped, which makes cleaning them much easier compared to heavily textured soles.

The wide fit option is a crucial feature for those who need more room in their shoes. Unlike standard width sneakers that can feel tight across the ball of the foot, the Wide D sizing ensures a relaxed, non-restrictive fit. This makes them an excellent choice for people with wider feet, as well as those who experience swelling or discomfort with narrower styles. If you do not need the wide width, they come in regular width as well.

The black version offers a sleek, understated look, making it easy to wear with jeans, dress pants, or even casual work attire. They do not scream that they are athletic shoes, so they blend well in semi-professional settings. The white version, on the other hand, has a classic, fresh appeal—ideal for shorts, casual dresses, and everyday errands.

Final Thoughts

Whether for daily wear, work, or light activity, the Reebok Princess sneakers continue to deliver everything I look for in a shoe. Despite the rising cost, the Reebok Princess Wide D sneakers remain my all-time favorite shoes for their unbeatable comfort, durability, and classic style. It is clear why they have remained my favorite choice for decades!

While I wish I could justify spending $50 on a new white pair at this time, I will have to make do with my current ones for now. Hopefully, they will last through my upcoming trip in May. It is disappointing to see a once-affordable brand named sneaker sell for a luxury price, but for now, I will continue wearing and appreciating the pairs I have left.

Philippians 4:11-12

“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.”