Nike’s React cushion was first seen in the Nike Hyperdunk 2017 and it was only a matter of time before we saw the cushion used outside of basketball. Now, Nike looks set on bringing React to running with the new Epic React Flyknit.
The newest runner from the Swoosh will feature Nike’s React cushioning and is rumored to be replacing the Lunarglide line. The line is a favorite for many runners out there so the Nike Epic React Flyknit will need to have some phenomenal cushion — like the teaser image below.
According to Nike, the Epic React Flyknit uses a one-piece Nike Flyknit bootie that was precision-engineered for support, flexibility, and breathability.
The shoe is a study in minimalism because the upper sits on one piece of foam — that essentially makes the outsole the same as the midsole, just with some added rubber under the forefoot and heel (for durability).
The Nike React that the Epic React Flyknit rides atop is, according to Nike, softer than EVA-based foams and is one-piece — no carrier, cement, or glue is added to the mix. Shallower portions of the foam slab are firmer while deeper parts feature more cushioning.
The Nike Epic React Flyknit will hit retail on February 22 on nike.com and at select retailers. As usual, no price has been announced yet, but stay tuned to WearTesters.com for updates.
What do you think about the Epic React Flyknit? Sound off in the comments below.
UPDATE 1/23/17: According to Heidi Burgett, the Epic React Flyknit will retail for $150.
It is indeed $150.
— Heidi Burgett (@heidiburgett) January 24, 2018
Nike React delivers 13% greater energy return than Nike’s latest generation of Nike Lunarlon foam. Nike Epic React Flyknit drops Feb 22. pic.twitter.com/b013ctwaJc
— Heidi Burgett (@heidiburgett) January 23, 2018
Source: Nike / Images via kristopherh/simplebao/ddwi0_park
That’s that they should’ve done with the HD 17s, no phylon carrier needed.
Looks like an ultra boost knockoff.
I think Nike had been trying to make their own version of the ultraboost for a while now. That is what they were attempting with the vapormax, but that didn’t really set the world on fire so they went back to the drawing board. Perhaps they have it here, but so far both react shoes released have pretty crap cushioning. Its been a dud so far. Can this succeed, without the phylon encasing the react? Will the react go dead really fast like lunarlon? We will see.
Not very creative. These heel counter designs are so overused by nike, they make every running shoe look too similar. Flyknit upper should be good as usual, but the shoe is not innovative at all. Nike needs to take some risks instead of staying in a box.