Tech

Nike Introduces Flyprint, the First 3D-Printed Textile Upper in Performance Footwear

Nike Flyprint is the first 3D-printed textile upper in performance footwear, according to Nike.

The Flyprint method allows Nike’s designers to translate athlete data to create new textile geometries. Footwear made with this custom printed textile can be unique to an athlete or a function, resulting in better performance.

According to Nike, 3D textiles also trump 2D fabrics as they allow for greater flexibility, are lighter and more breathable.

With Flyprint technology, Nike can make adjustments to the textile of the upper without altering the construction of the shoe and test and revision cycle times are much shorter.

The Nike Flyprint process

The process to developing the Flyprint uppers begins by capturing athlete data. Nike computed that data through computational design tools to affirm the ideal composition of the material. Finally, that information was employed to produce the final textile.

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Flyprint textile is said to work seamlessly with many other materials, most notably with Flyknit yarns. In fact, Flyknit yarns can be engineered to thermally bond with the Flyprint textile, eliminating any need for gluing or stitching.

The first expression of the Nike Flyprint comes in the form of the Nike Zoom Vaporfly Elite Flyprint created for Kenyan long distance runner Eliud Kipchoge. The new upper improves the VaporFly Elite shoe and makes it 11g lighter than Kipchoge’s original pair.

What are your thoughts on the Nike Flyprint? Fly or nah? Leave a comment below. 

Images & videos: Nike.com

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