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# Unrestricted Running Sandals
The NikeLab Free Rift Sandal is a Flexible Footwear Hybrid

By Meghan Young | Published 2015-05-06 | Fashion
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nikelab-free-rift-sandal
References: [news.nike](http://news.nike.com/news/rift-reimagined-the-nikelab-free-rift-sandal)

The NikeLab Free Rift Sandal is a reiteration of the 1996 [Air Rift](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/updated-air-rift), the international sportswear brand's attempt to create a running shoe devoid of unnecessary restrictions. Although a hybrid between a sneaker and sandal, the latest design falls closer to the latter. With its textile upper and rubber outsole, plush Phylon midsoles and [Nike](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nikeskims-air-rift-satin-pack) Free technology, it achieves a natural and [barefoot feel](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vivobiome-tabi-gen-01-sandal) in a unique way.

Originally designed with volleyball players in mind, the NikeLab Free Rift Sandal can be appreciated by any athlete. Especially for those who would like to test drive the decoupled toe and minimal upper. It is available in store just in time for the warmer weather and the fun outdoor summer activities the season brings.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 6.4/10
- Popularity: 91% | Activity: 92% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America, Europe

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes)

## Key Themes

### What's Driving This Trend

- **Flexible Footwear:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop a versatile and adaptable shoe that combines the comfort of a sandal with the performance of a sneaker.
- **Barefoot Feel:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create a footwear technology that provides a natural and barefoot feel, enhancing the wearer's agility and movement.
- **Decoupled Toe:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Invent a shoe design that allows for independent movement of the toes, improving balance and stability during physical activities.

### Who This Affects Most

- **Sportswear:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporate innovative materials and technologies into sportswear products, enhancing performance and comfort.
- **Outdoor Activities:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop new products or experiences that cater to the growing demand for outdoor activities and recreation.
- **Footwear Manufacturing:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore new manufacturing techniques and materials to create more lightweight, flexible, and sustainable footwear.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [Split-Toe Sneaker Returns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/updated-air-rift.md)
- [Split-Toe Footwear Updates](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nikeskims-air-rift-satin-pack.md)
- [Metallic-Tinged Split-Toe Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/air-rift-2.md)
- [Ballet-Inspired Split-Toe Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/air-rift-black-swan.md)
- [Sport Collaboration Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rift-mesh.md)
- [Athletic Tabi-Style Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fire-red-2.md)
- [Buckled Leather Split-Toe Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/buckle-strap.md)
- [Summer-Ready Lightweight Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/free-forward-moc-2-n7.md)
- [Lifestyle Foam-Based Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-balance-sandal.md)