Visible Air
Definition
Nike's design approach of exposing the Air cushioning unit through a window in the midsole. Visible Air transformed sneaker design by making the technology a visual feature, not just a performance one.
In Context
“Visible Air was genius because it turned the cushioning into the design — you could actually see what you were paying for.”
Category
First Letter
More Materials Terms
Nubuck
A type of leather that has been sanded on the outer surface to create a soft, velvety texture. Nubuck is more durable than suede but requires careful maintenance to avoid staining and water damage.
Suede
A soft leather with a napped finish, made from the underside of animal hide. Suede gives sneakers a premium, textured look but is more delicate and susceptible to water and dirt than smooth leather.
Patent Leather
Leather finished with a high-gloss, mirror-like coating. Patent leather is iconic on sneakers like the Air Jordan 11 and gives shoes a formal, eye-catching shine.
Flyknit
Nike's proprietary knitted textile upper technology that creates a lightweight, sock-like fit. Flyknit uses precision engineering to place support and stretch exactly where needed.
Primeknit
Adidas' answer to Flyknit, using a digitally knitted upper for a seamless, adaptive fit. Primeknit became famous on the Ultraboost and Yeezy 350 lines.
Boost
Adidas' signature cushioning technology made from thousands of expanded TPU pellets. Boost provides exceptional energy return and comfort, revolutionizing sneaker cushioning when introduced in 2013.