The shoe game is changing more and more every year. It seemed like Nike’s knack for innovation was never going to be matched (and as a Nike guy, I don’t think it ever will). Nike right now is at the forefront of all technological advances with the introduction of Lunar Foam and Flywire. Lunar Foam, a material that was originally created by NASA, has been incorporated into a new cushioning system by Nike. Lunar Foam offers the most impact protection of any shoe on the market today. During initial testing, runners reported less fatigue and quicker recovery times after long runs. It also answers the question of how to incorporate maximum cushioning without adding excessive weight to the shoe. Lunar Foam is 30% lighter than the next leading cushioning system, Phylon, which is also by Nike. All of this is even more amazing considering that the foam deteriorates when exposed to water and air. Nike’s biggest problem was discovering how to encapsulate the material into the outsole of a shoe. After many tests and models, the design teams were able to carve out an outsole that would be supportive but also harness the full benefits of Lunar Foam.
The next of Nike’s phenomenon is Flywire. Flywire was inspired by the cables used in the construction of suspension bridges. This new upper offers extremely light footwear that is as durable as any. But just how light is Lunar Foam? Well, the newest track shoe coming out for the Beijing Olympics weights a remarkable 0.2 pounds, yet, it is reportedly very inexpensive to produce. This is absolutely unheard of in any type of athletic shoe.
The most hyped and commercialized product that will use both Lunar Foam and Flywire is the Nike Zoom Hyperdunk. The Hyperdunk has completely changed the way we perceive basketball footwear. It’s been calculated that by the end of a 48 minute basketball game, the amount of stress on an athlete’s legs, when compared to the next leading shoe, will have been reduced by 750 pounds. This not only means more production during game times, but also can add to the longevity of a professional athletic career. The amazing 13 ounce weight is 18 percent lighter than the average basketball shoe. This translates into better court feel, quicker response time, and the luxury of forgetting about your shoes during play. All of this, thanks to the Lunar Foam and Flywire.
So if you are serious about running or playing basketball, the Hyperdunk and the Zoom Victory are the perfect choice. Not only will you feel better after your work out, but you will save money as well. They Hyperdunk carries a price tag of only $110.00, while the Zoom Victory is only $100.00. I would highly recommend going out, buying a pair, and supporting this amazing innovation.
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