Nike launches next generation running shoe with “all-new rocker geometry”
Nike has just launched its latest design innovation for the running market – a running shoe called ‘Motiva’ which features an exaggerated rocker to propel runners forward with comfort and ease.
It was while monitoring women logging their first workout on the Nike Run Club app that the Nike team noticed the majority of women were averaging a 13-minute mile. However, they weren’t just running at that pace, they were fluctuating between running, jogging, walking, starting and stopping throughout their activity.
That motivated the design team to focus on creating a shoe – for both women and men – that would help make exercise more enjoyable and “motivate people to keep going”.
Looking at insights, the Nike team understood that at a slower pace people are more likely to strike the ground heel first. The sole of the Nike Motiva features an exaggerated rocker that helps provide a smooth transition as the wearer moves forward, while also helping to ease the foot to the ground after heel impact. It also helps to roll the foot forward to push back off for the next stride.
Additionally, full-length Cushlon 3.0 foam in the Nike Motiva midsole is designed to provide cushioning to help soften the impact as the foot hits the ground, and new ‘ComfortGroove’ bumps on the outsole help make the underfoot experience even softer, compressing where and when it’s needed. That helps to reduce fatigue and makes the running experience “less work, more fun”.
A soft foam waterfall collar hugs the ankle and heel, while an internal half-bootie helps to seamlessly get the shoe on and off with ease.
The Motiva also has a new fit. Throughout testing, the testers told Nike that a narrow shoe is not their preferred fit. So, the team built the Nike Motiva on a new, data-driven last, delivering a widened forefoot, arch and toe box that the testers asked for.
The Nike Motiva will be offered in in a range of tonal and vibrant colours beginning in May 2023, priced at £99.95.
