# Comfort Foot-Hugging Runners Nike Unveils a New Epic React Flyknit 2 Inspired by the Cortez By Amy Duong | Published 2019-05-21 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/epic-react-flyknit-2 References: [hypebeast](https://hypebeast.com/2019/5/nike-epic-react-flyknit-2-cortez-release) & [43einhalb](https://www.43einhalb.com/en/nike-epic-react-flyknit-2-white-red-299236) Nike unveils the newest iteration of the signature Epic React Flyknit 2 running sneaker with a tonal update designed with inspiration drawn from its [Cortez](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cortez-sneaker) sneaker. The uppers are adorned in the recognizable blend of red, white, and blue. The uppers boast a construction of soft Flyknit materials, which are crafted to be perfectly form fitting to deliver comfort. The brighter colors of red and blue are showcased on the React midsole in blue and the [Swoosh](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vomero-5-3) in red. There is also the addition of the [Blue Ribbon Sports Track Club](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/204l-heron-blue) branding on the heel stripe in order to nod to its humble upbringing. The newest version of the Epic React Flyknit 2 sneakers is set to launch online at Nike and at select retailers beginning May 23rd. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.0/10 - Popularity: 79% | Activity: 64% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Comfortable Flyknit Sneakers:** Nike's Epic React Flyknit 2 with a form-fitting Flyknit construction and bright color options taps into the trend of comfortable yet trendy sneakers. - **Retro-inspired Sneaker Revivals:** Through the Epic React Flyknit 2 inspired by the Cortez, Nike capitalizes on the ongoing trend of reviving old-school sneakers with a modern twist. - **Brand-inspired Sneaker Design:** By featuring Blue Ribbon Sports Track Club branding on the new sneakers, Nike leverages the trend of brand-inspired sneaker design that pays homage to the origins of the brand. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Athletic Footwear:** The athletic footwear industry can innovate by integrating comfort and style in their products similar to Nike's Epic React Flyknit 2. - **Fashion and Apparel:** Fashion and apparel industry professionals can look into the trend of retro-inspired design to bring back vintage styles to the mainstream. - **Sportswear Brands:** Sportswear brands can leverage nostalgia and origin stories to create unique and personalized products, like Nike did by featuring the Blue Ribbon Sports Track Club branding on their new sneakers. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Toggle Securement Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-pegasus-easyon-blueprint.md) - [Athletic Performance Essentials](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-running-collection.md) - [Bolding Layered Breathable Runners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vomero-5-3.md) - [Responsive Dual-Foam Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-vomero-18.md) - [Neon Tonal Performance Runners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/alphafly-3-sneaker.md) - [High-Mileage Off-Grid Trail Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-zegama-2.md) - [Knitted Breathable Dynamic Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/flyknit-venture.md) - [Cosmic-Inspired Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cosmic-runner.md) - [Lightweight Breathable Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pegasus-41-blueprint.md)