Back in January, Nike unveiled the game-changing sneaker tech of the year: affordable and widely-available auto-lacing sneakers in the form of the Nike Adapt BB. Utilizing the same EARL auto-lacing tech that had been unveiled a couple of years prior (albeit with a much steeper price tag) it was a revelation. Shortly after, NBA players were auto-lacing up the kicks and playing games in them. They’ve been a resounding success and even come in a colorway inspired by the original inspiration for auto-lacing shoes, the Back to the Future II Nike Mag.
For those who originally missed it, Adapt technology functions through a phone app with which users can adjust the fit of their sneakers and even create preset fits to which the shoes can adjust immediately. It’s a revelatory innovation, especially for athletes who may need to frequently adjust the fit of their shoes as play goes on.
With their launch came a myriad of questions, one being whether or not we’d see the same technology implemented across Nike’s line. Nike reps were very open about the fact that it would certainly show up in more silhouettes eventually but couldn’t provide details beyond that. That changes today.
Nike will be implementing their Adapt technology into one of the brand’s signature lifestyle shoes, the Nike Huarache Runner. The original silhouette debuted in 1992. While it’s a running-style shoe, it’s ultimately been a staple of Nike’s lifestyle rotation for years now alongside classics like the Air Force One and Air Max 90. The shoe’s upper will be based on the original’s sock-like fit and come with its own array of features and presets unique to the Nike Adapt Huarache. Some of the presets it will come with include “chill” and “move” and users will still be able to create their own array of custom fits as well.
While the Adapt tech has, as previously mentioned, been a huge leap in sports innovation Nike argues that it’ll be just as helpful in everyday life. For instance, a suggested use for the quick adjustment capabilities Nike has put forward is suddenly having to run to catch the bus (which might require tightening your shoes up) before relaxing the fit once you’re seated and situated. Finally, much like the Adapt BB, the shoe will have customizable and adjustable lights on the side.
While we’re sure the technology will appear in more and more shoes and be applied to more and more functions and activities, right now the Nike Adapt Huarache is the next step in this groundbreaking innovation. The shoe will go live on the Nike SNKRS app on Friday, September 13, and will also be available via select retailers.
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