Deep flex grooves promote natural movement for a more barefoot-like feel.
The upper is made of thin, lightweight materials with minimal seams to enhance multidirectional flexibility for natural range of motion.
The low-profile design lets you feel closer to the ground, with a Phylite midsole that provides lightweight cushioning and enough durability to double as an outsole, dramatically reducing the overall weight of the shoe.
Breathable foam in the upper and internal support straps in the lateral forefoot and medial arch offer training-specific support.
Raised foam in the arch adds even more support where you need it.
The new comfort tongue lays flat on top of the foot and uses layers of sandwich mesh to help reduce lace pressure for a comfortable fit.
After learning that Stanford athletes had been training barefoot on the university's golf course, three of Nike's most innovative and creative employees set out to develop a shoe that felt natural and weightless, similar to bare feet. In 2002, they examined a group of men and women with pressure-measuring insoles taped to their feet, using high-speed cameras to capture images of each foot in motion.
The team spent eight years studying the biomechanics of shoeless running. The results yielded a profound understanding of the foot's natural landing angle, pressure and toe position, allowing Nike designers to build an unconventional and flexible running shoe from the inside out.
- Heel pocket accommodates a variety of heel shapes for a comfortable fit
- Training-specific traction pattern for multidirectional movement
- Rubber pods at the heel and forefoot for durability
Featured Technology
-
Nike Free
What You Should Know About Nike Free
Nike Frees are different than traditional athletic shoes. They’re designed to let your feet move more freely and naturally, which means your muscles will be doing a bit more work than demanded of them in some other athletic shoes. Nike encourages you to get used to them gradually for a safer, more effective and more enjoyable experience. Please visit http://www.nike.com/nikefree for more information on how to get the best from your Nike Free shoes.