Just like calories, not all running shoes are created equal. And with the launch of Nike’s new Epic React Flyknit, these words ring truer than ever. Not only do they look the goods (white or navy you guys? We’re still tryna decide) the high-achievers over at Nike have cleverly utilised a technology called ‘computational design’ in order to deliver the first of its kind.
“In computational design, instead of designing the form of an object itself, we define the performance requirements of that object and feed those requirements into a computer algorithm; it’s the algorithm that then generates the 3-dimensional forms that best deliver against our stated performance goals,” explains Ernest Kim, Nike Innovation Director on the React shoe.
Pretty nifty, hey?
“Like all of our best innovations, Nike React came from listening to the voice of athletes,” Kim explains to Amodrn. “Runners told us they wanted even softer cushioning with even better energy return — and it needs to be light and it’s got to last.”
“Historically, it just hasn’t been possible to deliver all four of these qualities in one material solution because they’re essentially polar opposites. For example, we perceive a material to be soft precisely because it absorbs energy and a hard material will typically provide the greatest energy return.”
Refusing to accept compromise of one benefit for another (because seriously, how can you choose between soft cushioning and springy energy return or that barely-there lightweight feel and strong durability), Nike recruited chemical and mechanical engineers to work with their design team to ensure that you don’t have to (we’ll save that extra brain power for the breakfast menu, shall we).
Drawing inspiration from the signature Flyknit bootie that we all know and love, this running shoe is suitable for all distances and designed for all running levels and styles (yes, even beginners).
Oh, and if you need some tips on getting the most out of your running sessions in your awesome new running shoes, may we suggest you click here?
The Nike Epic React Flyknit is available now from Nike.com and select retailers. RRP $220.
![nike react](https://i0.wp.com/amodrn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/nike-running-shoe-1.jpg?fit=770%2C513&ssl=1)
Image: Nike