Nike reveals another crazy new running shoe
Nike reveals the Epic React Flyknit, which the brand claims to be light, cushioned and durable, all while offering high energy return
Nike unveiled a running shoe with foam that they claim provides 13 per cent greater energy return than their latest Lunarlon cushioning.
Previously found in certain Nike basketball shoes, the technology is now being used in the Nike Epic React Flyknit. Nike claims that the React technology is durable, light, provides high energy return and provides cushioning. Compare the React to last year’s notable Nike release, the Nike Vaporfly 4%. The 4%, which retails for $330, is lightweight, provides high energy return and is cushioned but has a very short lifespan. The 4% is also a racing flat while the React is a trainer.
The Nike Epic React Flyknit is slated to be released on Feb. 22.
Like some of Nike’s previous shoes, the Flyknit race, for example, the upper is a single piece of knit fabric. The main outlier of the Nike Epic React Flyknit is the midsole, which extends beyond the perimeter of the foot around the heel to provide a supportive base. (It basically looks like the upper is sitting on a platform of foam.)
Nike React foam utilizes synthetic rubber rather than the traditional EVA foam which is used in many of the running industry’s footwear.
Testers put in more than 27,300 kilometres of running during the building of the shoe before it reached its final version.
First look:
