Last week we saw images of Nike Running’s newest cushioning system, Joyride. The design had many of us curious about the technology specs and how it would improve the running industry.
From a press release the company said, “Joyride is engineered to help keep legs fresh by delivering a personalized underfoot experience with great impact absorption in a surprisingly light, energy-returning package.”
WearTesters was invited to a launch event in Los Angeles to trial the newest sneaker and feel what it’s like to run in the Nike Joyride Run Flyknit. For 20+ minutes we had running coaches instruct and motivate us with a combination of music, lights, and animated visuals. It was a wild ride. The best part? No one was judged on how fast they ran. Joyride is truly meant for runners of all levels.
We also got to speak with Rachel Bull, Senior Footwear Product Director of Nike Running. We learned that the shoe’s inspiration comes from runner’s wanting to take the path of least resistance, typically grass versus a concrete surface.
“The first insight came ten years ago and it took us awhile to perfect the technology. About three years ago our running team started to develop it and find the right material for the beads,” said Bull.
This inspired Nike’s Sport Research Lab (NSRL) and footwear design teams to look for a solution that would help runners feel fresh, regardless if they are elite or casually exercising.
The Joyride cushioning system is made of thousands of TPE beads, which can be seen in the heel and forefoot. The beads are placed within zonal pods, allowing the foam to expand in all directions. The system creates a cushioned bed that forms to your foot and feels personalized to you.
When first trying them on, there is a clear feeling of said beads resting under the foot. Once we stretched out and got on to a treadmill, the cushioning began to move and form to our foot. This new technology will have people talking undoubtedly. Joyride is a new option for athletes of all ages and disciplines. Most importantly, enjoy the run.
There were 11 total colorways of the sneaker on hand, including the Flyknit. The global release of the line begins Aug. 15. All will be available here as they’re released. Additional silhouettes include:
-Joyride Optik, designed specifically for women with a lace-less upper. (No release date given).
-Joyride Setter, part of the Nike Sports Wear line with rubber eyelets. (Nov. 22nd).
-Joyride NSW, a lifestyle model tuned for comfort (No release date given).
-Joyride Nova, engineered for kids and young athletes. (No release date given).
Images provided by NIKE.
For all your latest sneaker news, reviews, first looks, and insight keep it locked to WearTesters.com and on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
