Nike introduces their Summer 2015 Collection, which includes three evolved running styles: the Nike Free 3.0 Flyknit, the Nike Free 4.0 Flyknit and the Nike Free 5.0. The new shoe models are made in such a way to mimic the natural way on how the runner’s feet and body move.
Nike Free 3.0 Flyknit: Nike’s most natural ride with a snug Flyknit upper and 4-millimeter heel-to-toe offset
Nike Free 4.0 Flyknit: A cushioned, natural ride with a contoured Flyknit upper and 6-millimeter offset
Nike Free 5.0: Nike’s most cushioned, natural ride with an engineered upper and 8-millimeter offset
This year, 2015, Nike Free designers focused on the principle eliminating layers, seams and bulk. Now here’s a look at the shoe features of the new Nike Free running collection:
Naturally Flexing Soles
Nike Free takes a research-based, body-led approach to the sole that allows the foot to sit close to the ground and move as nature intended. Data shows that the foot doesn’t move in a perfectly straight line while running. Even though the body is moving forward linearly, the feet tend to roll slightly while striking the ground. The hexagonal flex grooves on the outsole of all three Nike Free running shoes provide a fuller range of motion, letting the foot adapt to the ground, while the Phylite foam offers lightweight cushioning.
Sock-like Uppers
New features can sometimes mean added layers, seams and bulk – issues that often result in friction, more materials and a less flexible, natural fit. The Nike Free 3.0 Flyknit and the Nike Free 4.0 Flyknit have virtually seamless one-piece Nike Flyknit uppers that conform to the shape of a runner’s foot and offer support at the same time. Nike Flyknit technology allows designers to micro-engineer in areas of stretch, support and breathability exactly where runners need it. The Nike Free 5.0 shed layers this year and now boasts a full bootie construction that delivers seamless comfort and a flexible, lightweight ride. The mesh material used on the upper and the no-sew overlays also contribute to the overall lightness and breathability of the shoe.
All three shoes feature Nike Flywire technology for lightweight, strong support around the midfoot and arch.
Featherweight Design
Nike Flyknit technology is a prime example that less can be more and the quintessential upper to complement Nike Free shoes’ natural motion outsoles. The stretchy, featherweight, durable yarn hugs the shape of the foot and simultaneously lends flexibility and support. With a slightly looser weave than in previous models, the Flyknit uppers on the Nike Free 3.0 Flyknit and Free 4.0 Flyknit promote improved breathability.Runners who choose the Nike Free 5.0 will also notice a lightweight shoe, with Nike Flywire technology, no-sew overlays and a lightweight mesh in the upper. Shaving slivers of weight adds up when calculated over the course of a miles-long run.
Formfitting Heel Support
While some running shoes benefit from a structured, plastic heel counter on the back of the shoe, the Nike Free 3.0 Flyknit uses Flyknit technology to support the heel. The Nike Free 4.0 Flyknit uses a non-stretch yarn in the heel area to add even more stability and support to those who need it. Removing the structured heel counter frees up the runner’s natural gait and pares down weight.
Less Waste
Nike Flyknit technology doesn’t just erase weight from the shoe; the advanced manufacturing process also reduces waste. Since Nike Flyknit technology debuted in the Flyknit Racer in 2012, the innovative manufacturing process has reduced waste by nearly two million pounds – equivalent to about three times the weight of the world’s largest passenger jet. While shoe uppers are traditionally constructed from multiple materials cut and sewn together, Nike Flyknit technology knits strands of yarn into a nearly seamless upper to create a lightweight, form-fitting shoe that provides maximum athletic performance with minimal environmental impact. Since Nike Flyknit technoology debuted in the Flyknit Racer in 2012, the innovative manufacturing process has reduced waste by nearly two million pounds – equivalent to about three times the weight of the world’s largest passenger jet.
Nike designers don’t see Nike Free as a shoe made up of individual features. Instead, they’ve createdan ecosystem in which each of the shoe’s attributes work in concert to enable the natural movementof the foot. The form, materials and technology of Nike Free summer footwear harmonize to achieve360-degree natural motion.The Nike Free 4.0 Flyknit and Nike Free 5.0 are available through NIKEiD beginning March 23. The full Nike Free ecosystem will be available on nike.com and in stores April 2.
About NIKE, Inc.NIKE, Inc., based near Beaverton, Ore., is the world's leading designer, marketer and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories for a wide variety of sports and fitness activities. Wholly owned NIKE, Inc. subsidiaries include Converse Inc., which designs, markets and distributes athletic lifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories; and Hurley International LLC, which designs, markets and distributes surf and youth lifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories. For more information, Nike’s earnings releases and other financial information are available at http://investors.nike.com. Individuals can also visit http://news.nike.com/ and follow @Nike.
