A First Look at the New Nike Joyride Technology

Today Nike is unveiling a new technology that has been in the making for ten years. Inspired by the feeling of running on the beach or sinking into a bean bag chair, the Nike Joyride aims to make all runners better. 

Last month, the brand hosted pre-briefs at Nike’s NYHQ for a deep look at the product in advance of the launch and ONE37pm got the inside scoop. Perfected at testing hubs in Los Angeles and Denver, the Nike Joyride Run Flyknit will be available to Nike Members starting July 25 and at retail globally starting August 15 for $180.

Here, we're covering the five top questions about the Joyride technology, highlighted by images from Sarah Jacobs, ONE37pm's Photo Editor with art direction by Michael Saintil. 

Who wouldn’t want to run easier? A first-of-its-kind innovation—and resembling the spherical ice cream product Dippin’ Dots—the underfoot construction is strategically filled with thousands of tiny beads that provide adaptable cushioning. One hundred and fifty materials were tested before landing on a TPE (a copolymer of plastic and rubber) for the beads, according to Nike News.

The experience of wearing the shoe is like walking on a supportive beach, with tension in all the right crevices of your arch, but the perfect amount of rebound. This is one of Nike’s most distinct underfoot experiences yet. In fact, this shoe offers 15 percent more reaction than any other preceding Nike model.

It is also important to note that the shoe doesn’t have a sock liner, so your foot experiences the beads’ benefit directly. Remember those metal hand-imprint toys of the ‘90s? It’s a similar, albeit far more pleasant, experience to that.

Whether you’re a first-time runner or a frequent mover looking for a more pleasant jog, this experience provides better impact absorption and cushioning from the heel to the toe. The idea of freshness—versus strength with the Free silhouette, speed with the Zoom or duration with the React—is the main theme. 

This silhouette and construction are also perfect for avid runners seeking a shake-out in their routine.

The new Nike Joyride is constructed with thousands of tiny beads and a sneaker sole with distinct and scientifically tested cavities. The absorbing dots are poured into each area, eliminating the chance of the material accumulating at one end. A solid piece of foam or an Air construction wasn’t going to cut it with this new innovation. 

“The heel pod features more beads to provide greater impact absorption, while the remaining pods are tuned to facilitate a smooth transition and to provide stability, culminating with a pod designed to maximize energy return at toe-off,” a brand representative said in an email. 

The Senior of Product Innovation for Joyride, William Moroski, hinted at future capabilities with the Nike ID platform, allowing for customization of the color and number of the underfoot beads. 

Joyride will expand beyond running with silhouettes reimagined by Nike Sportswear and Nike Kids. Future silhouettes featuring the Nike Joyride technology include the Nike Joyride NSW, Nike Joyride Setter, the women's exclusive Nike Joyride Optik and the Nike Joyride Nova, targeting young athletes.

Related: A First Look at the New Nike Air Max 270 React 

Related: These '90s-Era Sneakers Are Officially Cool Again

Related: 50 Iconic Sneakers Under $150 That Are Still Dope

Related: 12 Shoes Rappers Love