Nike Officially Reveals the React Element 87 and Its Drill-To-Foam Design Process

After debuting on the Paris runway during UNDERCOVER’s FW18 show, Nike’s React Element 87 has generated some buzz over the past few months. Similar to the Nike Epic React, you’ll find a foam bed as the main source of the sneaker’s comfortable ride, however this iteration features an experimental tweak to that sole unit.

In the model’s official unveil, Nike states a drill experiment led them to place holes throughout the sole with hopes of achieving superior comfort while standing, walking, shifting, and the occasional sprint. Through trial and error, designers discovered which hole depths and densities accomplished their comfort goals. “At first, the whole process was one of those back-to-basics type of things,” explains the Footwear Design Lead for NSW Innovation Darryl Matthews. “But then we took what we’d learned and applied it through computational design scripts. That’s when things really started clicking.”

Additionally, the Internationalist-inspired upper is comprised of 100% TPE textile yarn and shares a translucent look with a subtle heel clip to complete the design.

Retailing for $160 USD, the Nike React Element 87 launches on June 21 via SNKRS in Asia, Latin America and Greater China, SNEAKERS in Europe and select Nike Sportswear retailers. A North America drop will follow on July 13 through SNKRS and select retailers.