It doesn’t seem all that long ago that Nike debuted their latest technological innovation, the Flyknit, that caused such a stir in both the athletic community and the sneaker world alike. But Nike are never one to rest on their laurels, so their recent decision to pair the unique manufacturing process with their incredibly popular Lunarlon sole seemed to be the next logical move. The result was the Nike Flyknit Lunar1+, a shoe that paired the athletic advantages of Flyknit technology with everyday practicality (and also manages to look pretty good at the same time). We took some to chat with the team about the process of crafting the kicks, and what we can expect from the brand in the future.
Can you describe why the Flyknit technology is so innovative?
Nike Flyknit is a single layer upper where in one fabric layer we’ve built in areas of structure, durability and ventilation.
How does it differ from other shoes in Nike’s running stable?
Traditional footwear manufacturing process uses a number of materials that require cutting and then stitching or sticking the pieces back together. With the Nike Flyknit material in the upper, we utilize an engineered knitting process that eliminates the need for this cutting and stitching. The technology allows precision engineering of a fabric, without adding unnecessary layers, to adapt to the foot in motion.
How was the Nike Flyknit technology born? Where did the idea start?
Nike Flyknit was born out of a unique clash of knitting technology that was modernized in delivery and engineered for performance footwear to create a new and original knitting technology. This new knitting technology combined with runner insights, lead us to pursue making a highly engineered performance ‘sock-like’ shoe.
Since then, how has it evolved?
Nike Flyknit was many years in the making. Our initial focus was to provide an amazing running product for elite level marathoners, giving them the unique fit and lightweight character this process of making allowed. Now we’re taking these unique fit experiences to all kinds of runners with the Nike Flyknit Lunar1+, pairing Nike Flyknit with Lunarlon technology for a holistic fit, comfort and responsive experience.
Was sustainability a major consideration when conceptualizing the Flyknit technology?
Nike is always looking to use innovation and design to minimize our footprint and address our own impacts in the design phase. Since the earliest days at Nike, the same drive to innovate that helps us design a better shoe inspires us to create a better company – and a better world.
In what ways does this technology support sustainability, compared to previous methods?
Unlike traditional footwear manufacturing that requires inefficient cutting and sewing of multiple materials, Nike Flyknit significantly reduces waste by reducing the number of parts in the upper– which is good for both the athlete and the planet. In the new Nike Flyknit Lunar1+ the upper construction reduces waste by an average of 80% compared with typical Nike Running shoes.
Did you experience any difficulties or ‘bumps in the road’ during the design process? Was there anything that nearly jeopardized the production of Nike Flyknit?
There were challenges we needed to overcome. For example, we needed to figure out how to take a sock-like fit and add structure and durability. Our team engineered processes to allow for lightweight Nike Flywire technology, a dynamic and strong cable system, to be knitted right into the upper for support and structure.
What is the biggest difference the Nike Flyknit technology will make to performance? How is it more beneficial than other running shoes?
Nike Flyknit has been engineered to provide precision fit for the specific needs of the foot in motion, creating a feeling of a second skin. Nike Flyknit offers an experience of a light formfitting upper/shoe that has often been described as a ‘glove-like fit’. This unique comfort gives a better experience for runners.
Do you plan to push Nike Flyknit technology even further in the future?
All our innovations, including Nike Flyknit, start with athlete insights. In the future, we’ll continue to be inspired by the voice of the athletes and innovate for their performance. Beyond that, you’ll have to wait and see!