Details
Brand
Nike
Heel To Toe Drop
N/A
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Trail
Type
Traction
Key Features
• FlyKnit Cables along the upper for added support• Lugged, rubber pod design along the outsole for extra traction• Forefoot flex grooves to support the natural movement of the runner• Injected midsole unit for lightweight cushioning• Durable water repellent coating• Leather tongue for added protection• Winterized design• Bolstered synthetic mudguard for added protection
Upper
The upper of this shoe features Nike’s patented Flyknit design. This helps create an adaptive fit for runners, allowing them the perfect amount of support. The flyknit cables provide a snug fit that helps to keep the foot in place. This shoe features a unique combination of material that creates a water resistant effect but also allows air flow to easily reach the foot. This is an all weather shoe that keeps runners’ feet cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The lacing system features a stretching bungee system that not only protects runners from potential spills on the trail that can be caused by untied shoes, it also tightens to create a bootie-like fit around the foot.
Midsole
Runners were surprised with how flexible this shoe is considering how much protection it provides. The midsole utilizes an injected sole unit. This midsole is lightweight, but still provides a good amount of cushioning that keeps the runner comfortable without keeping them from feeling the ground below them. This midsole helps to reduce the weight of the overall shoe too because it is very lightweight. Additionally, runners were pleased with the flex grooves that are found around the forefoot of this shoe that help increase the overall flexibility of the shoe.
Outsole
Nike provides runners with an aggressive lug pattern along the outsole. This rubberized pod design acts like a cleat, digging in and holding on to the ground below it to ensure that runners are safe and protected during their adventures. Runners reported that this material provides serious traction and makes this a good choice for wet or dry terrain. The Bolstered Synthetic Mudguard along the outsole is water resistant and abrasion proof. It helps to deflect any harmful elements that runners can encounter on the trail. This material also helps to keep the foot warm during cold weather runs.
Breathability
This shoe is somehow able to be both weather-resistant and breathable. Runners love this shoe as an all-weather hiking shoe. Many runners who train in the mountains that can easily go from warm and dry to wet and cold found this shoe to offer a perfect transition. The upper is made from a lightweight, breathable mesh that helps to keep water out, but still allows for air to enter the shoe and keep the runner’s foot cool and comfortable, even during warm weather and strenuous activity.
Comfort
One of the common complaints of heavy duty hiking shoes is that they can be too boxy, heavy and uncomfortable. Nike worked hard to combat those common problems in this shoe. They created a flexible shoe that protects the foot but doesn’t make the runner feel like they are hiking or running inside of a block. The flex grooves along the outsole help the shoe move with the runner’s foot and although the outsole is very protective, Nike made sure to keep the material as thin as possible so that runners would still feel connected to the ground below them. Additionally, the upper of the shoe feature’s Nike’s patented Flyknit design. This features a fly cable construction that adapts to the needs of each runner. Runners found the upper to a have a bootie-like fit that snuggly supports the foot from unwanted side to side movement. The midsole features a lightweight cushioning that provides the right amount of padding for those tough trails. The entire shoe is designed to keep water out, so runners don’t have to worry about soggy feet during their runs. This reduces the risk of blisters and hot spots too.
Style
Nike knows how to make a good looking shoe and the Lupinek FlyKnit Low is no exception to this rule. With the design of this shoe, Nike was able to create a shoe that feels and acts like a rugged hiking boo t but looks like a stylish adventure running shoe. The shoe is offered in neutral color options like Dark Gray and Sail. Runners can expect to find the patented Nike swoosh prominently displayed along the side in a stand out color. The shoes feature a bungee lace-up system that adds to the rugged appeal.
Durability
This shoe is designed for difficult weather conditions. The outsole is designed using an aggressive lug pattern and rubberized pods for added grip. This outsole is designed to provide the runner with a durable ride that won’t break down easily but Nike also uses flexible materials so that runners can still feel connected to the road below them. Additionally, around the base of the shoe, Nike included a bolstered synthetic mudguard that is designed to deflect debris and keep the shoe looking and feeling new.
Protection
The advanced protection provided in this shoe makes this a great option for an all-weather running companion. From the upper to the outsole, Nike made sure to include multiple layers of protection that keep the runner safe and comfortable in the heat, rain, and even snow. The outsole is made using an enhanced lugged system that acts like a cleat, digging into the ground and helping to keep the runner upright. Additionally, the FlyKnit Cables along the upper provide the runner with a secure fit that helps to prevent the foot from unwanted side to side movement that can lead to injury. The injected unit in the midsole of the foot provides the right amount of cushioning to provide a cushioned base for the runner that reduces the impact on the joints.
Responsiveness
Although the outsole of this shoe is durable and protects runners against the potentially harmful elements found on the trail, Nike made sure that this material is also thin and responsive enough that runners can still feel the ground below them and respond accordingly. The midsole and outsole are flexible and help the runner feel connected to the ground below them so they can effectively respond to changes in pace, direction, and terrain.
Support
Nike’s patented FlyKnit cables along the upper of the shoe help to provide support to the runner. These cables keep the foot securely in place while still providing enough flexibility so that the runners won’t feel like the shoe is too boxy. Additionally, the bungee lacing system helps to provide an adaptive support system, allowing the runner to tighten or loosen the shoe as much as they need for their individual needs.
Terrain
This is an all-terrain shoe. It can easily handle groomed trails, but is tough enough to tackle much more difficult terrain. Slippery conditions like snow and ice are no match for the lugged rubber pod outsole and the bolstered synthetic mudguard around the base of the shoe.
Price
This shoe is not for the runner on a very tight budget. It is nearly double the price of the average running shoe on today’s market. While runners who did purchase this shoe were happy with their investment, pointing to the long lasting durability of the design, this is not an affordable shoe for many runners.
Drop
Runners who are used to running in a traditional drop shoe will have no issue adapting to the Lupinek FlyKnit Low. This shoe features a traditional feeling drop that is similar to most running shoes and hiking boots.
Stability
This shoe does not include additional stability features that will improve the runner’s gait. This is not a shoe that is suggested for runners who need support for over or under pronation issues.
Traction
One of the key attributes of this shoe is its ability to latch on to practically any terrain. The outsole of the shoe features a lugged rubber pod design that not only provides added grip but also digs into the ground to help the runner move forward. Runners commented that this shoe is good for any weather condition or terrain.
Bottom Line
Nike’s Lupinek FlyKnit Low is a perfect combination of a fast and flexible running shoe and a rugged hiking boot. Like all Nike shoes, the design is stylish and sleek and looks great on the trails or as an accessory to a casual outfit. This shoe can tackle the toughest terrain in any weather conditions. Nike included technology in the design that helps to keep the foot warm in cold weather and cool and ventilated in warm weather. The outsole is made with a durable, rugged rubber pod design that protects the foot from debris and dangerous elements that can be found on the trail. While this shoe can be used as a road running shoe, it is best suited for and designed as a trail running shoe. The price is high, so runners on a very tight budget should consider other options.
