Ever since the line debuted in 2004, Nike Free has made a conscious attempt to strengthen the relationship between a runner’s shoe and the ground beneath it. Fifteen years later, the company is releasing two new pairs of kicks that “enable a more barefoot-like feel than previous models,” per a press release.
The 2019 Nike Free running collection features the Nike Free RN 5.0 and the Nike Free RN Flyknit 3.0, two shoes designed for lower-mileage runs and both existing lower to the ground than the models of 2018. The Free RN 5.0 is 2mm lower to the ground, while the Free RN Flyknit 3.0 is 1 mm closer to the ground than last year’s iterations.
Both shoes’ cushioning has also been strengthened. Per Nike:
Because Nike Free is intended for lower-mileage runs, the foam cushioning in the new Nike Free midsoles is firmer (closer to that of the original 2004 model to promote a more barefoot-like feel underfoot), flatter and lower to the ground, delivering greater connection and more natural range of motion than before. The midsole now features siping along the top and bottom to increase dorsi and plantar flexion. Based on data mapping, varying depths in the sipes are placed where the foot naturally wants to bend and stretch to enhance the feeling of movement and to allow for more natural foot motion.
Both shoes will drop on April 4, with the Nike Free RN 5.0 retailing for $100, and the Nike Free RN Flyknit retailing for $130.
