Who doesn’t love a classic pair of sneakers? They’re comfortable, stylish and go with practically anything. But what if you could take that same classic style of sneaker and add tech functionality to it? Sounds like an awesome idea, right? That’s exactly what the latest iteration of Nike sneakers offers their users.
These new Nike styles are called “Tech” sneakers, because they come with a variety of built-in features that enhance the user experience. Don’t let their name fool you though; these are definitely not just your average high-tech kicks. These shoes are as accessible as any other standard style of sneaker would be.
They may come with a higher price tag than some other brands, but they offer value above and beyond what you pay for them.
10 Nike Tech Styles You Need to Know About!
As fashion-forward as the world of sports is, there are some categories that feel more resistant to modern trends than others. Take athletic apparel, for example.
While streetwear and high-end athletic brands have been exploding in popularity over the past few years, the space between those two extremes has felt a bit stagnant. That is until recently, when we’ve seen an influx of new styles that mix performance with modern flair.
Brands like Fear of God and Stone Island have put their own spin on sportswear staples; mixing performance fabrics with unexpected textures and patterns to create pieces that are just as much athleisure as they are streetwear.
In fact, many of these hybrids bridge the gap between performance and style so seamlessly that they could almost be considered a new subcategory altogether: “athletic” or “street” tech styles.
What is Athletic Tech?
Athletic tech blends the aesthetics of high-fashion athletic styles with the performance-oriented fabrics and construction we’ve come to expect from serious gym rats and serious athletes. Athletic tech is inspired by the looks and fabrics we’re used to seeing in high-fashion athleisure, such as knit fabrics and oversized silhouettes, but is designed to be more functional than what you’d find at your local athleisure retailer.
This means athletic tech pieces are as stylish as they are functional, which makes them a great choice for anyone who likes the look of athleisure but doesn’t always appreciate the comfort level of associated fabrics.
Athletic tech is a young category, but it’s one that’s quickly gaining traction and has been something of a golden child for Nike, who has made athletic tech a focal point of its collections over the past year. This isn’t to say that athletic tech is only a Nike thing, though.
Brands like Fear of God and Stone Island have successfully fused athleisure and athletic aesthetics over the past year with their own athletic tech-inspired sneakers and apparel.
What Makes Athletic Tech Different?
There are a few key characteristics that define athletic tech, including a focus on functionality and a modern aesthetic that’s heavy on athleisure-inspired silhouettes and textures.
Athletic tech is defined by the fabrics used in its construction, which tend to be thicker and more durable than those used in athleisure pieces. Athletic tech is also heavily focused on performance, which means that the silhouettes are designed with functionality in mind.
Athletic tech focuses more on what a piece can do than how it looks on your body. This makes athletic tech a great choice for anyone who wants to look good but also wants a functional garment that can stand up to any activity. Athletic tech also has a heavier focus on branding than athletic staples, which is something to keep in mind when selecting a garment.
Fear of God x Nike Sneaker Collaboration
Nike and the Fear of God have teamed up to release a number of athletic tech sneakers over the past few years, including a pair of the Beaverton brand’s signature “G” logo sneakers.
The collaborative models that FOG has released with Nike are an example of how athletic tech has evolved over the past few years. These sneakers are every bit as stylish as any FOG collaboration before them, but they’re also engineered for performance.
The FOG x Nike Beaverton G PRISE SE running shoes, for instance, are made with heavy-duty mesh that is meant to withstand even the most intense workouts. These sneakers are the perfect example of what athletic tech is all about: they’re stylish, they’re functional, and they’re the perfect hybrid of athleisure and athletic.
Stone Island Jumpers
Stone Island’s jumpers have been legendary in the fashion world for decades, but the brand’s recent athletic tech pieces have them gaining attention among the athletic community as well. Stone Island’s jumpers have always been stylish, but the brand’s athletic tech garments are a more modern take on the jumpers many associate with the brand.
Stone Island’s athletic tech jumpers feature modern construction, fabrics, and a style that feels specifically designed for the athletic community. The jumpers are ideal for anyone who likes the look and comfort of a hoodie but wants something that can withstand the rigors of serious athletic activity. Stone Island Jumpers also come in a wide variety of colours and styles, so there’s something for everyone.
Adidas Ultra Boost Climbing Shoe
The adidas Ultra Boost is one of the most popular running shoes on the market, but there’s a new model that’s gotten a lot of attention lately: the adidas Ultra Boost Climbing Shoe. This model is technically a hybrid model, but it’s so technologically advanced that it’s included in the athletic tech section for this feature.
The Ultra Boost Climbing Shoe is a performance shoe designed for athletes, but it’s also a great option for fashion-minded individuals who want a more stylish shoe to wear on the climbing wall. The Ultra Boost Climbing Shoe features a thick knit upper that is designed to withstand intense wear and tear on both rock climbing walls and indoor exercise equipment. This model is the perfect example of athletic tech in action.
Nike Flyknit Trainer Chukka
If you’re a big sneakerhead, you’ve probably heard of the Flyknit Trainer model. The Flyknit Trainer is one of Nike’s most popular running shoes, and the ultra-modern design has been featured on many of the Swoosh’s recent silhouettes.
Last year, Nike released a new model of the Flyknit Trainer. The Flyknit Trainer Chukka is a hybrid model that borrows from both the Flyknit Trainer and a chukka boot design. The Flyknit Trainer Chukka is a stylish hybrid model that blends performance fabrics with a chukka boot style and a modern aesthetic. This model is proof that athletic tech sneakers are more than just running shoes.
Adidas x Raf Simons Stan Smith
The Stan Smith model has been around since the ’70s and has since become a modern sneakerhead favourite. In 2016, adidas released a modern take on the Stan Smith with a design that felt straight out of a high-fashion house, but with a sporty aesthetic.
The adidas x Raf Simons Stan Smith is an athletic tech sneaker that blends the functionality of a sporty sneaker with a modern aesthetic that feels as stylish as any Raf Simons creation. The adidas x Raf Simons Stan Smith is a perfect example of athletic tech in action.
Conclusions
Athletic tech is a new category that merges a stylish aesthetic with the functionality and construction of serious athletic gear. Athletic tech sneakers feature modern designs and materials, and are designed for those who want a sneaker that can withstand intense activity.
Athletic tech apparel blends performance fabrics with trendy styles, and provides an exciting take on athleisure. If you’re someone who likes the look of athleisure but wants something that can withstand serious activity, athletic tech is the perfect category for you.
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