Nike, the world’s leading running brand, has unveiled four new innovations at an event at the company’s global headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon, introducing two new running shoes, the Nike Free Flyknit and Nike Free Hyperfeel, and two new apparel technologies, Aeroloft and Dri-FIT Knit.

The new products are designed to enhance runners’ natural abilities and were guided by Nike’s ‘Nature Amplified’ design ethos, an approach that is focused on designing for the body in motion and fuelled by scientific data and athlete insights.

“Innovation is not about creating for its own sake, it's about creating something better, designing with a purpose. Running is the heart and soul of Nike and it’s the birthplace of a constant stream of new innovations that will drive the company forward,” said Mark Parker, President & CEO of Nike.

Footwear Innovations

The Nike Free Flyknit is the fusion of two of Nike’s iconic footwear technologies — the compressive Nike Flyknit upper and the flexible Nike Free outsole. The Nike Free Flyknit upper features zoned performance mapping and a second-skin fit. The shoe is designed to provide the benefits of natural motion and a snug, supportive fit in a single shoe.

Designed to feel like an extension of the body by minimising layers between the foot and the ground, the Nike Free Hyperfeel is said to deliver a natural motion sensation for the runner. A drop-in insole made from Lunarlon foam allows the foot to have direct contact with Lunarlon cushioning. The ultra-thin waffle outsole uses strategically placed waffle pistons for grip and feel, allowing the foot to get closer to the ground.

Apparel Technologies

Nike Aeroloft technology also debuted in the ultra-light Nike Aeroloft 800 Vest, designed to keep runners warm and comfortable in cooler conditions. Insulating down has been combined with precision ventilation that allows heat to escape the body so athletes stay dry.

Dri-FIT Knit is an ultra-soft, lightweight fabric engineered to help athletes maintain optimal performance temperature in a variety of conditions. The technology employs visibly different knit patterns to aid breathability, while seamless construction ensures a smooth fit free of distraction.

“Nature Amplified means designing for bodies in motion and creating incredible new products that work intuitively with the human body,” said Trevor Edwards, Nike Brand President. “The footwear and apparel we’ve unveiled today is based on insights from athletes and runners at every level, combined with extensive research in our Sport Research Lab. These innovations are data-driven, but body-led."

Further reading

Nike launches advanced Free Flyknit with compression

www.nike.com