As children’s shoes are typically scaled down versions of their adult counterparts, factors such as comfort and performance are normally compromised to a large degree in the production of these shoes.
Nike decided to address the issue and that has led to them creating their innovative Future Series, which is designed specifically for the comport and performance needs of the young athlete.
The line was the result of movement specialists in the Nike Sports Research Lab (NSRL) working with children and realizing that children have different movements angles, are primarily heel strikers when walking or running and they do not like heavy shoes, preferring them to be lightweight.
The designers drew their inspiration from a puppy’s paw ( which has a softer surface that provides cushioning, but also surrounded by firmer skin that is there for traction and stability). Designers also widened the foot form to give children more room for their movements, used less glue and utilized a soft cushioning that will prove youngsters protection as well as comfort.
The series will be rolled out with two models: the Future Flight for basketball and the Future Speed, a runner. Both models will make use of lightweight uppers that can allow natural movement and dual-density foams for cushioning.
According to Nike, the creation of the Future Speed and Future Flight were not destinations but launching points as the technology behind the two models will continue to be researched and refined.
Both the Future Speed and Future Flight are set to launch July 1 on Nike.com
