Blue Nike Free 4.0 V3 Running - SP14 Lightweight Mens Breathable Running Shoes Cushioned / Neutral Road Popular models Minimalist / Barefoot NIK9101

MINIMALIST / BAREFOOT RUNNING SHOES

The Nike Free 4.0 V3 has a more cushioned barefoot-like feel compared to the other members of the Nike Free family. It is more minimal than the Nike Free 5.0+ and more cushioned than the Nike Free 3.0, the Nike Free 4.0 Running Shoe provides the foot strengthening and flexibility benefits of natural motion without sacrificing underfoot protection or multi-surface traction.

The main features and differences of the 4.0 compare to the other two Nike Free.

Advanced Flexibility

The flex groove outsole¡ªmade up of deep cuts along the length and width of the midsole¡ªenhances natural range of motion, encourages a smooth, efficient stride and helps maintain stability.

Super-Low Profile

A low-profile midsole delivers a more barefoot-like feel than the Nike Free 5.0+, with a 6mm offset between heel and forefoot height for a blend of cushioning and flexibility.

Seamless Feel and Highly Breathable

The seamless upper provides exceptional comfort and fit with minimal no-sew overlays. Unlike the previous version, the upper features large mesh panels on the midfoot that increase airflow for enhanced breathability.

• ** UPDATED ** Textured Mesh Full Inner Sleeve - For a dynamic, sock-like fit that hugs the foot, preventing slippage.
• ** UPDATED ** Larger Seamless Mesh Panels - Unlike the previous version, the seamless upper features large mesh panels on the midfoot that increase airflow for enhanced breathability.
• ** UPDATED ** Diagonal Cuts - Through the arch to encourage natural motion flexibility and help increase foot strength.
• Super-Low Profile (6mm Offset) - A low-profile midsole delivers a more barefoot-like feel than the Nike Free 5.0+, with a 6mm offset between heel and forefoot height for a blend of cushioning and flexibility.
• Advanced Flex Groove Outsole - The flex groove outsole provide advanced flexibility¡ªmade up of deep cuts along the length and width of the midsole¡ªenhances natural range of motion, encourages a smooth, efficient stride and helps maintain stability.
• Abrasion Resistant Rubber - Placed under the high-wear areas for enhanced durability.
• Waffle Outsole Pistons - For greater traction and durability and a more efficient toe-off.
• Phylite Midsole - This ultra-lightweight material placed in the midsole is tough enough to double as an outsole, dramatically reducing the shoe's overall weight.
• Minimalistic, Moulded Sockliner - Mimics the foot's curvature for a great fit, enhanced comfort and added support.
• BRS 1000 - Carbon rubber outsole for great durability in those areas that get worn very quickly.
• Tongue-Wrap Construction - For easy on and off.
• Weight: 218 grams (men's size 8)

What is Nike Free?

Nike Frees are different than traditional athletic shoes. They¡¯re designed to let your feet move more freely and naturally, which means your muscles will be doing a bit more work than demanded of them in some other athletic shoes. Nike encourages you to get used to them gradually for a safer, more effective and more enjoyable experience.

NIKE FREE ORIGINS

After learning that Stanford athletes had been training barefoot on the university¡¯s golf course, three of Nike¡¯s most innovative and creative employees set out to develop a shoe that felt natural and weightless, similar to bare feet. In 2002, they examined a group of men and women with pressure measuring insoles taped to their feet, using high-speed cameras to capture images of each foot in motion.

The team spent eight years studying the biomechanics of shoeless running. The results yielded a profound understanding of the foot¡¯s natural landing angle, pressure and toe position, allowing Nike designers to build an unconventional and flexible running shoe from the inside out.