Hard to separate the design from the marketing here…but I have thoughts.
On one hand, I appreciate challenging the status quo and the concept of designing outside a very specific set of contrasts. The deconstruction of the midsole into component parts is novel. Combining so many parts into a cohesive whole is challenging. The Fast RB also leverages the build to create a unique stance and shelf visual. It’s a compelling visual story for sure.
On the other, the question is “why”? Why does this exist?
I think it’s wise to appreciate those trying to break design norms, especially when it manages to break through into a sold product because it is hard to go against the grain, and maybe more so, the ingrained. Proud of them for taking the risk and defying the typical sole design.
Taking a look at the actual design itself though I have a few thoughts:
I wonder who it is meant for? There are so many shoe fans out there that go for the appearance or avant guard style alone, that I think this lends its self towards that audience. We can learn a lot from their feedback.
Is it for a the running community? Nike developed theories about how to improve stride and heel compression early on in its history, and they changed the shape and form of their shoes to fit with that theory. Was the additional heel cushion faster or better for running and jogging form - I don’t know. Ultimately, the style was interesting, the change was unique, and the marketing was good enough to get a lot of athletes into their shoes. The RB Nitro Elite shoe looks like it would drastically change how you run. If you have a heel striking jog, I am not sure this is the show for you. If you have a mid foot to ball of foot landing during your run this might be amazing and really emphasize and support that style. I would love to hear more from runners on this style after they have given it a try, because even if it is not a racing shoe, perhaps it could be considered a training shoe that encourages specific foot posture that should be encouraged in order to shift from heel striking to ball of foot striking.
With novel designs like this, it will be interesting to see how these wear out. These will wear differently than typical soled shoes, maybe it’s in areas we care less about as a runner. It appears like the center of the sole may wear most since it will be a smaller area of contact with he ground than is typical on shoes. Perhaps it is more durable than other shoes and will last hundreds of miles whereas it has been feeling lately like shoes have been improving in some helpful aspects, but lasting for fewer miles on flatter, softer terrain.
I am curious if this will or how it will affect the running community. I suspect it will not drastically impact it, but there are plenty of examples of new outer wear being banned or changing a sport, for example the LZER swimsuits back in the 2008 olympics.
I applaud trying something new and am excited to hear how it is received by the hyped early adopters and running community as a whole.
