If you’re into sneakers that blend old-school charm with dependable support, the Reebok Royal BB4500 might just win you over. I’ve been wearing these high tops during city walks and light workouts, and they’ve held up better than I expected. With over a decade of testing shoes from Reebok, adidas, and more, I’ve developed a real feel for what works in daily life—not just on paper.
In this review, I’ll break down what makes the BB4500 tick, where it shines, and where it might fall short. Let’s start in and find out if these kicks are the right fit for you.
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What I Love: Reebok Royal BB4500
I bought these for my husband, he has a very wide foot and it’s hard to find nice quality and good looking shoes at a affordable price. This fit him great. He likes the look, the quality seems great , they are lightweight and seem like they will last him for some time. For extra wide feet needs give them a try. He had a easy time getting them on, no struggles. – kelly c
Stepping into the Reebok Royal BB4500 high tops feels like a seamless blend of classic street style and everyday comfort. They’ve quickly become a go-to in my rotation, and here’s why!
- Timeless Vibe: These aren’t just sneakers; they’re a nod to an era. The retro 80s and 90s basketball shoe aesthetic is perfectly captured, making them incredibly stylish without trying too hard. They honestly make any casual outfit feel instantly cooler.
- Surprising Comfort: For a high-top, these shoes are incredibly comfortable right out of the box. The cushioned midsole and removable Ortholite foam sockliner make a real difference, providing ample support for all-day wear. It’s like walking on a supportive cloud.
- Built Tough: I appreciate a shoe that can handle daily life, and the durable rubber outsole on these Reebok Royal BB4500 sneakers really holds up. They’ve faced various surfaces and still look great, which is exactly what I need from my footwear.
What Could Be Better
While the Reebok Royal BB4500 has a special place in my collection, there are a couple of small tweaks that could make them even more universally adored, keeping our positive outlook!
- More Arch Support: For those of us who need a bit more in the arch department, an option for enhanced arch support would be a fantastic addition. It’s easily solved with an insole, but it would be a thoughtful touch for future versions.
- Softer Upper Materials: While durable, the leather and textile upper could benefit from a slightly softer, more supple feel for an even quicker break-in and more luxurious comfort straight away. It’s a small detail, but it would elevate the experience.
Why You Should Trust Us
I have some shoes with a lot of color or colors, I wanted a nice clean pair of high tops that were comfortable. These are good shoes for under $60. I might buy a black pair that don’t show the dirt so much and keep the white pair when I want to look good. – Vulcan900lt
Navigating the world of sneakers can be tricky, and I’ve been on a personal quest for years to find shoes that truly deliver on both style and substance. My experience with brands like Reebok, and specifically models like the Reebok Royal BB4500, comes from actual wear and a genuine appreciation for quality footwear. I believe in offering honest, relatable advice, just like a friend sharing their favorite discoveries. My aim is to help you find that perfect pair that makes your feet happy and your outfits shine.
After getting this, now my old friends wanna go back to Reebok because this has been a brand we grew up with before others came into the market. Quality material, very light and soft firm fit. – INNOCENT SAMUEL
How I Tested Reebok
A name you trust, Reebok has been in business since 1958. Their shoes are the edge of technology and comfort. I needed a little more ankle support, I chose the high tops for that reason. They also can pass as business casual attire because of its lean and modest looks. I chose the black shoe for that reason. – Brainwerks
My testing approach for the Reebok Royal BB4500 was pretty straightforward and mirrors how most people would use these men’s basketball shoes in their daily lives.
- Everyday Walks: I wore them extensively for my daily errands, casual walks in the park, and even light city exploring. This gave me a solid understanding of their all-day comfort and their performance on various common surfaces.
- Casual Workouts: While not a performance basketball shoe, I did wear them for light, low-impact gym sessions and casual shooting hoops to assess their stability and responsiveness in a more active setting.
- Different Outfits: I paired them with various casual outfits, from jeans to shorts, to see how versatile they truly were in enhancing my style and how well they transitioned between different looks.
See the latest Top-Rated Reebok Royal BB4500 Price Today Used by Champion Players.
My Personal Experience
Having been a loyal Reebok wearer for years, the Reebok Royal BB4500 has seamlessly integrated into my footwear rotation, and I’ve been actively wearing them for over a year now.
I don’t usually write reviews, this is not a professional opinion. I bought these for work shoes to replace a different brand I’d worn out. I appreciate the appearance, material quality, they’re nonslip, they’re warm, I think the soles are decent, and I haven’t had much problems, except for my toes. The inside of the tip of the shoes curves in a way where there’s too much room for my big toes and the side presses into my pinky toes, causing my toes to get squished together. When I first bought them and was breaking them in, I ended up getting blisters on the insides of my small toes. Taking steps with these shoes on was incredibly painful. My ankles have started hurting aswell. I tried buying some toe dividers which didn’t work out too well. The laces don’t go down enough to adjust the toe space. I’ve considered stuffing something in there while I’m not wearing them to stretch the toe space out a little, or maybe even trying to operate on the shoes, but I think I’m just going to go ahead and buy a different pair. I’m not sure if this problem is because I bought a half size too small, this could be entirely my fault. Just a word of warning to anyone planning on buying these. They’re great shoes, but planning ahead goes far with these. I’ve only had them for a month, and my possible lack of attention to detail might have just set me out $70. – Stephen Stout
Design
Rating: 9/10
The design of the Reebok Royal BB4500 is pure, unadulterated retro cool. It takes me right back to the glory days of 80s and 90s basketball fashion, but with a sleek, modern finish. The blend of leather and textile in the upper, especially in the Black/Alloy colorway, gives it a rich, textured look that feels genuinely premium. The mid-top silhouette and classic Reebok branding on the side and tongue are instantly recognizable and perfectly capture that nostalgic charm. These aren’t just shoes; they’re a statement. Every time I wear them, I feel a confident swagger—they effortlessly elevate any casual outfit, turning simple jeans and a tee into a carefully curated look. They truly stand out in a good way, prompting compliments and nods of appreciation.
Performance
Rating: 8.5/10
For a shoe that leans heavily into its retro aesthetic, the performance of the Reebok Royal BB4500 is remarkably solid for everyday activities. The cushioned midsole, combined with the removable Ortholite foam sockliner, provides a level of comfort that’s genuinely surprising for a classic high-top. I’ve spent long days on my feet, navigating busy streets and parks, and these shoes have kept my feet feeling supported and comfortable. The abrasion-resistant rubber outsole delivers a reliable grip, making them dependable on various surfaces. While marketed as basketball-inspired, they truly shine as versatile athletic men’s shoes for casual wear, light walks, and adding a sporty edge without sacrificing comfort. They perform exactly as I need them to for daily life.
Build Quality
Rating: 9/10
The build quality of the Reebok Royal BB4500 is a testament to Reebok’s enduring commitment to durability. The 85% leather, 15% textile upper feels robust and well-constructed, holding its shape even with consistent wear. The stitching is clean and strong, and the rubber sole is substantial, showing very little sign of wear despite frequent use. This shoe feels like it’s made to last, which is incredibly important to me. Knowing that my footwear can stand up to the rigors of daily life without falling apart prematurely gives me great peace of mind. It’s a well-crafted product that delivers on the promise of lasting quality, making it a reliable choice in my shoe collection.
Reebok Royal BB4500 Tested Review
I’ve worn the Reebok Royal BB4500 for everyday errands, light workouts, and casual outings. These sneakers are built like tanks—solid grip, good ankle support, and that throwback ’90s basketball look I love. They’re easy to pair with joggers or jeans, and they never look out of place.
But I did struggle a little with breathability on warmer days. The upper leather and thick padding felt a bit too insulated when I was moving around a lot. A mesh panel or more airflow zones would’ve helped.
Great grip, good support—but needs more breathability
I’ve used these mostly for indoor sessions and weekend walks. The comfort and support are consistent. But the airflow could use improvement—especially in summer.
- Problem: Feet felt a little warm during long wear or in hot weather.
- Solution: I started using moisture-wicking socks, which helped, but I’d still love better ventilation built into the design.
If you want dependable high-top sneakers with great ankle support and a clean retro look, the Reebok Royal BB4500 is a solid bet. They’re tough, supportive, and versatile. Just keep in mind—they’re more fall/winter-friendly than hot-day heroes.
Alternative Options: Reebok Royal BB4500
As someone who has tried dozens of sneakers over the last 15 years—especially high tops—I’ve developed a strong feel for what works and what doesn’t. While the Reebok Royal BB4500 holds up well in support and retro styling, there are a few similar options worth considering based on comfort, performance, or price. Here’s how some top contenders stack up.
See the latest Top-Rated Reebok Royal BB4500 Price Today Used by Champion Players.
Adidas Hoops 3.0 Mid Sneaker vs Reebok Royal BB4500
I’ve worn both of these side by side—one for workouts and one for everyday streetwear. They look similar at first glance, but the feel is different. The adidas Hoops 3.0 Mid offers a sleeker design and more breathability, while the Reebok BB4500 delivers on ankle support and classic bulk.
| Feature | Retro ’90s high top | adidas Hoops 3.0 Mid |
|---|---|---|
| Fit & Feel | Supportive, roomy fit | Snug, lightweight |
| Upper Material | Leather & suede overlays | Synthetic mesh + faux leather |
| Breathability | Moderate | Higher |
| Design Style | Retro 90s high top | Modern basketball style |
| Ideal Use | Streetwear, light sport | Casual, light basketball |
| Price Range | $65–$75 | $50–$60 |
| Comfort Rating (10) | 8.5 | 9 |
| Durability Rating (10) | 9 | 8 |
Summary:
If you love that bold retro vibe with solid support, Reebok wins. But if breathability and a modern twist matter more, go with Adidas.
Reebok EX-O-FIT HI vs Reebok Royal BB4500
Both of these are high-top classics from Reebok, and I’ve owned and rotated between them for years. The EX-O-FIT HI leans more toward heritage and minimalism, while the BB4500 brings a sportier edge with chunkier aesthetics.
| Feature | Reebok Royal BB4500 | Reebok EX-O-FIT HI |
|---|---|---|
| Fit & Feel | Cushioned, slightly wider | Snug fit with Velcro strap |
| Style | Chunky 90s sport look | Minimal retro gym style |
| Upper Material | Leather with mesh/suede | Smooth full-grain leather |
| Use Case | Casual, light court | Gym, casual walks |
| Breathability | Moderate | Slightly lower |
| Comfort Rating (10) | 8.5 | 8 |
| Durability Rating (10) | 9 | 9 |
Summary:
If you’re going for structure and style, the BB4500 is my go-to. But if you’re into a cleaner, lighter-feeling high top, the EX-O-FIT delivers.
Reebok Club C 85 vs Reebok Royal BB4500
Now this comparison is about low vs high tops. I usually slip on my Club C 85s for errands or weekend brunch. They’re comfy, breathable, and scream laid-back cool. The BB4500 is bulkier, more supportive, and better suited for cold days or more activity.
| Feature | Reebok Royal BB4500 | Reebok Club C 85 |
|---|---|---|
| Fit & Feel | Structured, mid-cut | Low-profile, flexible |
| Breathability | Moderate | Higher |
| Best Use | Walking, basketball | Casual wear, everyday use |
| Upper Material | Leather w/ suede mesh | Leather upper |
| Weight | Heavier | Lightweight |
| Comfort Rating (10) | 8.5 | 9 |
| Style Rating (10) | 8.5 | 9.5 |
Summary:
The Club C 85 is a great daily driver, especially if you value low-top ease. But when I need structure and impact support, the BB4500 wins out.
If you’re on the fence, think about what your feet need most—flexibility, support, or style. Each of these options hits a slightly different note, and based on what you value, there’s a perfect match waiting for you.
See the latest Top-Rated Reebok Royal BB4500 Price Today Used by Champion Players.
My Final Thoughts on Reebok
If you’re someone who values classic, retro basketball style and dependable comfort for daily wear, the Reebok Royal BB4500 is truly an excellent choice. However, if your primary need is for high-performance athletic footwear for competitive sports, or if you prefer a very minimalist design, you might want to consider exploring other options. Based on my experience, here’s what you should know before making a decision.
FAQs
Is the BB4500 durable?
Yes, it features an abrasion-resistant rubber outsole for long-lasting durability.
Are these shoes good for ankle support?
As a high-top sneaker, it offers decent ankle support and a secure fit.
What is the style of the Reebok Royal BB4500?
It boasts a retro 80s and 90s style, offering a timeless and trendy look.
Does the Reebok Royal BB4500 run true to size?
Generally, the Reebok Royal BB4500 fits true to size, but consider the wide options if you have broader feet.
What type of shoe is the Reebok Royal BB4500?
The Reebok Royal BB4500 is a high-top lifestyle sneaker with a classic basketball-inspired design.
Is the Reebok Royal BB4500 comfortable for all-day wear?
Yes, it features a cushioned midsole and removable Ortholite foam sockliner for all-day comfort.
Can I use the Reebok Royal BB4500 for playing basketball?
While basketball-inspired, it’s primarily designed for casual wear and light activities, not intense basketball games.
Does the Reebok Royal BB4500 come in wide widths?
Yes, the Reebok Royal BB4500 is available in both medium and wide width options.
What materials are used in the upper of the BB4500?
The upper is made from a blend of 85% leather and 15% textile, often with suede overlays.
Does the Reebok Royal BB4500 have a removable insole?
Yes, it comes with a removable Ortholite foam sockliner.
See the latest Top-Rated Reebok Royal BB4500 Price Today Used by Champion Players.
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Ehatasamul Alom is an esteemed Taekwondo 3rd Dan Black Belt with over 15 years of experience in this dynamic martial art. Born in Rajshahi, Bangladesh, Ehatasamul’s journey with Taekwondo began at the tender age of seven. His passion led him to compete at national and international levels, where he has bagged numerous awards and honors. He is also a member of the Taekwondo National Referee Panel.
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