The Nike 2016 Summer Air Rift Collection features a hybrid sandal sneaker designed to let the wearer's feet breathe better in hotter temperatures, while still maintaining the fit and athletic look of a sneaker. The shoes have a slip-on structure complete with easy to fasten velcro straps for easy on-the-go wear.
The Air Rift Collection includes the Rift Wrap and the Free Rift styles. The sneakers are designed by Nike, but are quite divergent to any of their other footwear styles. The shoes feature a modular white soal coupled with a closed toe and heel. The centre of the foot remains exposed for breathability while a thick strap along the top keeps the shoe fitted to the foot. The summer collection is complete with bold tie-dye prints.
Technicolor Sandal Sneakers
The Air Rift Line Opts for a Slip-On Design for Added Breathability
Trend Themes
1. Hybrid Sandal-sneakers - Nike's Air Rift Collection creates an opportunity for other athletic companies to develop their own hybrid shoe design, merging the comfort of a sandal with the support of a sneaker.
2. Breathable Footwear - The popularity of Nike's Air Rift Collection reveals a demand for footwear with increased breathability that can withstand high temperatures, opening doors for businesses to create innovative designs using new technologies.
3. Modular Soles - The modular sole design featured in Nike's Air Rift Collection presents an opportunity for other shoe companies to experiment with interchangeable sole technology, improving the durability and customization of footwear products.
Industry Implications
1. Athletic Footwear - Companies in the athletic footwear industry can integrate breathable designs into their product lines to better respond to consumer demand for functional and fashionable sneakers
2. Fashion and Apparel - Fashion and apparel companies can integrate new materials to their products, such as moisture-wicking fabric, to improve breathability and comfort in warmer climates
3. Outdoor Sports and Recreation - Outdoor sports and recreation businesses can take advantage of the trend towards breathable and versatile footwear, designing new products that offer both comfort and support to athletes and adventurers alike.