The sole of the new Free Hyperfeel is dotted with "pistons," placed strategically on pressure points. The upper uses Nike's Flyknit tech. Image: Nike They're a compromise between Nike's proclivities to pad and runners' desires for direct sole-on-surface contact. A thin foam innersole is sliced in both directions for flexibility. Years back, when Nike was just starting to feel around for its Next Big Thing, its designers asked athletes what they really wanted in a performance shoe. The answer, oddly enough, was something like a sock–form-fitting, comfortable, and unobtrusive. That insight led to the development of Flyknit, a totally new shoemaking process where basically everything but the soles and the laces exist as a single piece of fabric, knit by a computer-controlled Grandma (actually a 15-foot, yarn-munching machine). Flyknit shoes are both lighter than older models and vastly less wasteful. Nike’s crazy about them. But while Flyknit successfully transformed all those upper parts into a second skin, it didn’t do much for soles.

Nike Free Hyperfeel looks to complete the job. Flyknit is probably the future of Nike. The Nike Free Hyperfeel is even more sock-like than its predecessor–a distillation of the running shoe to its purist, most simple form. The Air Pegasus–one of Nike’s more traditional running shoes–is made up of over 50 different parts; the new Free Hyperfeel consists of just seven. The upper remains a single-piece Flyknit affair, but the bottom is all-new. running shoe store beverly hillsA super-thin, super-flexible outer sole is dotted with a matrix of tiny squares–“pistons” as Nike calls them–arranged according to common pressure points. good shoes for running half marathonThe removable inner sole is a thin piece of Lunarlon foam, sliced on the bottom in both directions, allowing it to twist both lengthwise and widthwise. nike shoes australia black

All of this is in the service of keeping you attuned to the surface you’re running on, instead of insulated from it. In essence, the Free Hyperfeel is a compromise between Nike’s proclivities to pad and runners’ desires for a more direct sole-on-surface contact. It’s an attempt to strip away everything superfluous about the running shoe. (Of course, there is an increasingly large contingent of runners who think that a running shoe is superfluous to begin with.)best off road running shoes 2012 But while you might think it would concern Nike to be whittling away their shoes to nothing–you could see the Hyperfeel as a gateway drug to total barefoot running–these and the other Flyknit kicks represent a design coup for the company in a few different ways. best trail running shoes in snow

They’re better for athletes, because they’re lighter. They’re better for the environment, because they are, on average, roughly 80 percent less wasteful than other running shoes. And they’re profitable, because their computer-assisted design makes for a supremely efficient use of materials. Flyknit is probably the future of Nike. We’ll see it on all different types of shoes (c.f. the gorgeous Flyknit Chukkas). running shoes store dcBut the Free Hyperfeel, which will be available in early September, respond to a unique, more specific challenge: how to give runners the benefits of a running shoe with as little shoe as possible. Nike introduced Flyknit in February 2012 and now to celebrate its fourth birthday, the brand has released an infographic chronicling the lightweight sneaker tech’s complete history from inception to application. After making its first appearance in the Flyknit racer, the technology has been introduced to the training, running, soccer, basketball and lifestyle releases, making Nike one of the most innovative sportswear brands in the world.

Check out the infographic below and marvel at how something 10+ years in the making has now worked its way into becoming one of Nike’s most profitable pieces of staple tech. What to Read Next Sign up for our newsletters Receive the latest in Footwear, Fashion, Music and Creativity in our newsletters. p One-piece upper with Nike Flyknit construction: Integrates areas of high breathability, stretch and support Flywire technology woven into Nike Flyknit upper: Dynamic, supportive fit through the midfoot Lunarlon midsole uses a softer injected Phylon core foam directly underfoot and a slightly firmer injected unit sole carrier foam: Plush ride Contoured Lunarlon midsole: Provides the perfect amount of flexibility Articulated laser cuts on the medial and lateral sides of the midsole: Smooth transition from heel to toe Laser-cut pods: Enhanced cushioning and multi-surface traction I would not buy these shoes again I would maybe buy this product again once it goes on sale.

My new favorite running shoe! Feels half size too small Feels true to width Was this a gift?:Men's Nike Shoes, Clothing, and Accessories Get the best of the best men’s shoes, clothing, and accessories from Nike. When it comes to quality and comfort, Nike is one of the most trusted brands in men’s sportswear, streetwear, and urban apparel. Nike is iconic, always in style, and simply unstoppable. That said, when you need clothes and sneakers that can keep up with you 365 days a year, think Nike. And when you think Nike, remember the best place to buy Nike products – Jimmy Jazz. Men’s Nike clothing and footwear for any situation. Everyone knows that the right shoes for the right occasion can make all the difference. Nike works to continuously expand its footwear line to accommodate your needs, whether you’re an athlete or just want the most stylish and comfortable shoes on the market. When it comes to Nike clothing, we’ve got everything you’re looking for, from hoodies, sweatshirts, and sweatpants to athletic shorts, tank tops, and t-shirts.

Be sure to check back often, as we’re always updating our site with the latest styles as soon as they’re off the line. Stay updated with the latest Nike sneaker releases. Whether you’re a collector, an athlete, or just want a jaw-dropping set of sneakers that will make anyone who sees them jealous, follow our Nike Release Calendar for the latest and most coveted Nike releases. We stock all of the freshest designs, including Nike Lebron, Air Max, Kobe, Rosherun, KD, and AF1. If you’re looking for Nike Jordan brand shoes and clothing, we’ve got that too. See our full selection of Jordan brand men’s clothing and footwear. Keep your style updated with our New Arrivals section. It goes without saying, but Nike is on the ball when it comes to the latest trends. So when you want your style to be on point, shop our New Arrivals to get the freshest designs from Nike as they hit our shelves. Stay on top of the hottest styles from Nike every time you shop online at Jimmy Jazz.