Following the Nike Roshe Run, arguably Nike’s most popular design since the Air Force 1, will be huge a shoebox to fill. Almost anyone who considers themselves a sneakerhead has at least one pair in the closet and due to the low price and multiple upper options, the Roshe just works — comfy, simple, clean, and classic.
But, as with all good shoes, there must come change. Now, Nike is introducing the Nike Roshe Two. Based more on “casual performance” than the One, the shoe features more cushioning and is designed with a better fitting upper. Also, from the start, Nike is giving us a mesh and Flyknit option, unlike the One, which took months to see ‘knit. The base version will retail for $90 and the Flyknit will see a bump to $130. September 1 is the date you need to know.
Check out what Nike says below and let us know what you think about the updated silhouette in the comments.
“Flexibility doesn’t always equate comfort. It is more complicated than that,” states Dylan Raasch, lead designer of the Nike Roshe Two and its predecessor, Nike Roshe One, which championed an only-what’s-necessary philosophy that dissected a sneaker into its primary elements and then refined them. To wit, Nike Sportswear designers look at three key attributes when they design footwear for all-day wear.
1) Underfoot comfort: A combination of stability, support and cushioning, based upon research from the NSRL
“[Footwear] insoles were initially used to cover up stitching at the bottom of the shoe,” Raasch explains. “Now, they are the first layer of a cushioning system.”
To achieve the ultimate underfoot comfort, the Nike Roshe Two pairs dual-density memory foam in the insole with a new innovative outsole that has been cored to improve flexibility and allow each waffle to move independently. Combined with a new, tri-fusion IU midsole, it features three unique densities to deliver targeted compression and durability that doesn’t pack out by the end of the day. The lowest density is directly underfoot for enhanced cushioning, while higher surface density on the outsole provides impact protection.
2) Upper comfort: A contoured, dynamic fit is also key
“[All-day footwear] should basically be an adaptive glove for your feet,” Raasch declares.
Nike designers tackle this necessity via engineered materials. In particular, the Nike Roshe Two features a minimal upper that forms to its wearer’s foot, while lofted groves add flexibility and a supplemental foam layer provides additional cushioning.
3) Long-lasting comfort: A responsive system
“If your feet feel great after a crazy day, then we have done our job.” Raasch affirms.
Along with providing underfoot and upper comfort, all-day footwear must anticipate the physiology associated with full-day wear. Feet swell and the in-shoe temperature rises as the hours accrue. The Nike Roshe Two provides stretch and breathability in the upper to counteract these realities, while providing suitable support underfoot.
Us again – there are two colorways showing for men and two for women at the moment – one each of mesh and Flyknit. The Flyknit bring multicolor threads to the complete upper while the mesh, for now, are solid. However, we all know MANY MORE colors are on the way, and we will have full details as they become available.
The Nike Roshe Two Flyknit is available via the Nike Tech Book in all markets besides North America on August 25. It will be available in the SNRKS App, at global retailers and via the Nike Tech Book in North America on September 1. The Nike Roshe Two launches in the SNKRS App and at global retailers on September 1.
Nike Roshe Two Men’s
Nike Roshe Two Women’s
Images via Nike
Why dont they launch these first in the US?