Nike reacts, and how

I am a sneaker head — I wear sneakers 98 percent of the time, no matter the occasion.

Next to living with my pets, driving cars, my next best thing to do is try out the latest sneakers on the market.

Last Sunday it was off to a fun run at UP Diliman for the launch of a second release of Nike Epic React Flyknit.

Following its Feb. 22 debut, the new Nike Epic React Flyknit colorways, including Pink Matcha, an off-white Alloy (for women) and Horizon (glowing red for women and a dark gray for men), were made available in select Nike stores.

If there is one virtue I truly love about Nike and its sneakers it is that it constantly asks runners (for the Flyknit series) what they look for in a running shoe.

Here’s what the Nike runners asked for: better cushioning, better energy return, lightweight technology and durability.

Nike influencers Matt Nieto, Anton Asistio and Mike Nieto

Time for the test

As I took my first few strides with the Nike Epic React Flyknit I did notice how light and bouncy the sneakers were. A clear sign for me that these shoes were made for running.

I am not a hard-core marathon runner. I am what I like to call a fitness runner — this means I include a five-kilometer outdoor run in my workout schedule at least once a week. On other days, I use the treadmill at the gym for a 20- to 30-minute interval training run-walk-run.

But, today was for a three-kilometer fun run — so I was sure I would get a good feel of just how well my knees would be protected with the Nike Epic React Flyknit.

I mention knees, because when you reach your 50s the knees are the first to buckle if the shoes are not the best for running.

Well, the React’s dynamic is quite straightforward. For starters there is the design, (looks are almost everything when it comes to good kicks, nowadays) so the one-piece Nike Flyknit bootie seems to be precision-engineered for support, flexibility and breathability in the spots where runners need it the most. With all the running technology it is equipped with plus its cool design, the shoe hugs the foot and gives it good support just where it is needed.

Nike Running Club Party Bus

More running time

I also love that the Nike React Flyknit, like all Nike sports shoes today, are gender-specific. So, the Nike Epic React Flyknit Women’s Running Shoe allowed me a good run, with no tightness or pinching on my foot — and all these as I hit my stride with the shoe.

I guess this can be attributed to the Nike React foam cushioning, which is responsive, lightweight, durable and soft.  

The Nike Epic React foam is the real deal and made for folks who love to pound the pavement — real runners.

As I joined the warm- up before the run, I noticed how the Flyknit upper fit my foot just right. And, as I did a few foot stretches, my knees and ankles liked that the Flyknit bent the way I wanted it to — not too soft and pliable even when I did a few pivots with my ankles.

Nikko Ramos and Bea Fabregas

My verdict

The Nike Epic React is a lightweight all-around daily training shoe that can take on every workout you can throw at it: from long runs to speed work on the track and treadmill. 

With the Nike React Flyknit, Nike has raised the bar by creating a running shoe that feels different, and better. 

From an aesthetic standpoint, this shoe is artful, and I think that it will stand as a classic in both design and aesthetic.

But, since I am a fitness junkie, I value functionality, comfort, and durability — even over looks.