Nike Zoom Hurdle Liu

Inspired by and tailored to the performance needs of Olympic hurdler Liu Xiang.

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Zoom Hurdle Liu

Until now, Nike-sponsored hurdlers have worn modified sprint shoes, which aren’t designed to fulfill the specific performance needs of a hurdler. So Nike designers have created the Zoom Hurdle Liu, inspired by Liu Xiang, Olympic gold medalist and world-record holder in hurdling. The Zoom Hurdle Liu is the first hurdle shoe made by Nike.

First, Nike conducted research on hurdlers’ biomechanics and techniques; this research was then used to design a high-performance hurdle shoe with superior characteristics. A plate, made of injection glass reinforced Nylon, is reinforced with glass fibers forms the foundation of the shoe. Structural ridges that run the length of the plate help provide superior rigidity when the foot comes in contact with the track, which helps the athlete maintain superb form between the hurdles, yet it is forgiving enough to help minimize mistakes and reduce energy loss. The structural ridges are also contoured to provide protection in case of an impact with the hurdle.

The upper’s design is replete with rich color and texture to evoke the richness of Chinese culture. The minimal number of layers in this ultralight design promises extra comfort, as does the inner mesh booty with its glovelike fit. Finally, a traditional lacing system with metal eyelets guarantees extra security and optimal closure.

Five permanent pins have been placed on the outsole to minimize the weight of the shoe. Biomechanical research helped dictate the position of the pins; their placement was chosen to minimize stress on the pressure points of the foot while maximizing traction. Even the pins’ shape has been designed to support optimal performance, as traction is best achieved when the pin does not penetrate the track but only grabs it. If penetration occurs, energy will be lost to the work it takes to release the pin from the track.

Quotes:

“The praise for this shoe was really about the functionality, and then when Liu Xiang won the gold medal, we wanted to customize the shoe and add some features that were more emotional. But the Zoom Hurdle Liu started as a purely functional piece, and that’s how we typically work. First and foremost, we try to address the performance issues, and then, after that, we try to create more of an emotional attachment.”
Ciro Fusco, Innovation Kitchen

“The overall benefit is really tailored to what the athletes ask for in the design. To the naked or untrained eye, the Zoom Hurdle Liu looks very similar to what you see in the store, but we tweak every little detail per what the athlete requests.”
James Tong, Designer