Like any proper technology, the new Nike HyperAdapt 1.0 goes by a more personable moniker – E.A.R.L. – a friendly stand-in for its more long-winded given name, the Electro Adaptive Reactive Lacing sneaker. The HyperAdapt 1.0 aren’t just any new shoes, but a new platform designed to represent the company’s future forward intentions, one weaving digital, electrical and mechanical engineering into a singular purpose to serve comfortable movement of the wearer at the touch of a button. Thanks to WIRED, we now know these sneakers aren’t just vaporware/wear…
Step into these Nikes and E.A.R.L. automatically tightens to a form fit; adjustments to tighten or loosen fit are available using two hidden buttons. The HyperAdapt 1.0 — each shoe is fitted with a hidden sensor connected to a battery, motor, and cable system programmed to use an algorithmic pressure equation to tighten the “laces” for a personalized lockdown onto the foot.
Those who follow sneaker news might already remember the HyperAdapt 1.0, initially revealed back in March. An excellent new cover story feature in the October issue of Wired reveals good news for those dreaming of a day when tying shoes goes the way of headphone ports: Nike’s automatic electronic self-lacing shoe is heading out of concept and into consumer hands by the end of this year, sure to be on the holiday wishlist of many sneakerheads.
The Nike HyperAdapt 1.0 will be landing in stores on November 28th, available in three colorways: deep black, crisp white, and smooth grey, with pricing yet to be announced. This may be the end of laces as we’ve long known them.
