ORIGINS: After learning that Stanford athletes had been training barefoot on the university's golf course, three of Nike's most innovative and creative employees set out to develop a shoe that felt natural and weightless, simulating bare feet. In 2002, they examined a group of men and women with pressure-measuring insoles taped to their feet, using high-speed cameras to capture images of each foot in motion.

The team spent eight years studying the biomechanics of shoeless running. The results yielded a profound understanding of the foot's natural landing angle, pressure and toe position, allowing Nike designers to build an unconventional and flexible running shoe from the inside out.

SEAMLESS UPPER: The seamless, composite upper offers lightweight support where you need it. It features larger perforations for more flexibility and smaller ones in areas that demand more support.
FLEXIBILITY: Flex grooves along the length and width of the midsole enhance flexibility for a more natural stride, while diagonal grooves through the arch enhance flexibility and help increase foot strength. The low-profile midsole doubles as an outsole, dramatically reducing overall shoe weight.
SUPPORTIVE FIT: A full inner sleeve made of mesh offers a sock-like fit that hugs the foot yet still allows for easy on and off. The minimal, molded sockliner conforms to the foot's curves for enhanced fit, comfort and support.