The Nike Flyknit Racer has made a name for itself as one of the hottest statement-making casual shoes on the market. But it’s important to remember the Racer’s roots as a streamlined running shoe.
This Saturday, February 13, those roots are taking center stage, as the fastest marathon runners from across the country will be lining up in Los Angeles, California and racing in the 2016 Marathon Trials. The top three finishers for each gender will earn themselves the honor of representing the United States in the marathon event this August.
Meet The Shoe
To celebrate this event, Nike is releasing the new ‘Marathon Blue’ color of the Flyknit Racer. Reminiscent of the super rare 2012 ‘USA’ colorway, the ‘Marathon Blue’ is injecting new spirit into this style staple. The shoe’s one-piece Flyknit upper is saturated in bold blue, while the supportive Flywire cables stand out in hits of volt. This Flyknit/Flywire combination not only looks great, but fits great as well.
Areas of breathability and support are knit into the upper, creating a second-skin fit that moves with you and provides everything you need and nothing you don’t. The Flywire can be tightened through the laces, providing the perfect amount of lockdown for every individual runner. And who doesn’t want a shoe built just for them?
A full-length Phylon foam midsole works with a high-speed Zoom Air unit for responsive ground feel and low-profile cushioning to keep you comfortable over 26.2 miles. The shoe is finished off with a Waffle skin rubber outsole and racing-specific diamond pattern for durable, lightweight traction that can really go the distance.
Sound like the perfect shoe for you? We definitely think so. Grab your pair tomorrow, and when you’re done, catch the live broadcast of the Marathon Trials on NBC starting at 1pm ET.
Here are some hits of need-to-know info before you watch:
2016 Marathon Trials
Who Can Run?
To qualify for the Marathon Trials, athletes must meet the “B” standard on a USATF certified racecourse. For men, the “B” standard is a race time of 2:19:00 and for women it is 2:45:00. As a result, the athletes racing tomorrow are some of the fastest in the nation.
Defending Champs
Meb Keflezighi and Shalane Flanagan
Fun Facts
Meb is 40 years old, and still a favorite to make the team (he’s the fastest qualifier).
When Shalane won the trails four years ago, the race was only her second marathon. Like, ever.
Keep Your Eye On:
Meb Keflezighi (2012 winner)
Shalane Flanagan (2012 winner)
Kara Goucher (finished third in 2012)
Amy Cragg (Shalane’s training partner, finished fourth in 2012)
Dathan Ritzenheain (finished fourth in 2012)
Galen Rupp (this will be his first marathon)
Desiree Linden (has the second-fastest qualifying time)
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