Is Nike on the cusp of creating the first smart running shoe?

Nike appears to be chasing down some groundbreaking technology in the shoe world with the revelation of a patent application it submitted this month.

Its design seems to go beyond the usual bells and whistles, referencing valves, buttons and “electronic communication features.” What Nike is calling  an “Active Fluid Control System,” involves using internal power to actively control fit and function, as mentioned in a 133 page document filed with the US Patent Office.

Conceptual drawing shows external power source

Drawings submitted along with the patent application detail an external power source on the side of the shoe where it could be plugged in when not in use. Among the functionality outlined in the document, it mentions developing “fluid movement controllers and adjustable foot support pressure,” and “user input button features.”

The bottom of the shoe features an outsole that would house mechanisms to control support by way of fluid chambers. Design features also include a pumping system, foot support system, pressure sensors and geartrains.

It appears there would be fluid-filled bladders that work to adjust foot support on the fly. The system would react and adjust to surface conditions and fatigue levels while running, acting as a kind of suspension system. The bladders could inflate and deflate to change cushioning and support. Solenoid valves and pumps would be powered and work to move fluid in and out of the bladders.

Pressure sensors measure foot force

The shoe would also measure how much force the runner is exerting on different areas of their foot, using a system of pressure sensors. The mention of “user controls” suggests there could be a manual adjustment feature on top of the electronic system for adjusting cushion and support. It’s possible that the shoe might be driven through an app or AI.

Speculation about the practical advantage of such systems include shoe support that adjusts as you fatigue or change terrain. As the body becomes tired run mechanics breakdown. Variable terrain also alters a runner’s cushion and support needs when moving from road to dirt or rocky surface. In this case, through altering stiffness of the midfoot by inflating or deflating the bladders, the shoe could be customized during an actual run to react to these changing elements.

A shoe with connectivity

Not only would the level of precision and the adaptability of the shoe improve stability, fit and comfort, it could also reduce injury. In essence, it could be considered the first “smart shoe.” This also opens up the possibilities of connecting the shoe to apps like Strava and Garmin Connect. The data could also provide information for gait analysis and correction for better performance and injury prevention.

As with other cutting edge performance shoes from Nike, durability and cost are potential disadvantages, as would be battery life and the increased risk of maintenance and malfunction. As the world awaits Nike’s next revolutionary shoe, athlete’s may want to start contributing to their piggy bank well in advance.

Along with the shoe patent application, Nike filed 32 other patents on the same day. Among the items were sandals, socks, shirt, outsoles and other shoe designs.