The shoe without glue: Nike launches the ISPA Link on the (US) market
Although I still don't understand why this news originated at a Milan furniture fair, I'm excited about the product itself. Once you learn more about Nike's new ISPA Link, I'm sure you'll feel the same.
"I just took a shot with my camera. Maybe that's something for you," Pia explains the torrent of photos she sends into our team chat after her visit to the Salone del Mobile furniture fair. And how that's something for us. Us = the fashion team. That = a revolutionary sneaker from the house of Nike.
Exactly how revolutionary, I find out only after a short research. Even with its sheer looks, however, the Nike ISPA Link has me on its side. The woven Flyknit material - a combination of different knit patterns, sometimes woven tighter to give the foot more support, sometimes more pliable and breathable - the knobby sole, the creped laces. A classic case of Ugly Chic, I'd say. Right up my alley.
The research
.. doesn't take long at all and provides answers to my three most pressing questions in no time at all.
What does ISPA mean?
Behind the four letters is the design philosophy with which Nike challenges its creative minds to think outside the box:
Improvise. Scavenge. Protect. Adapt.
Translated into German, that tells us: Improvise. Search. Protect. Adapt. In other words, break old patterns, always strive for a new, better solution, and never lose the ambition to evolve. Sounds reasonable. Especially in the context of the fashion industry, which doesn't exactly have a good reputation when it comes to sustainability and environmental protection. The company's goal is to create a cycle in which as little superfluous waste as possible is produced and as much as possible is recycled.
What makes the Nike ISPA Link special?
The sneaker consists of three modules: the Flyknit body, the sole and the laces. These can be combined in any way - and hold together entirely without glue or other chemical binders. It's tuck and thread, pressure does the rest. This means that the shoe can be completely taken apart again and fully recycled, for example in the event of defects, damage or wear.
When will the Steck shoe be on the market?
Since June 22, the ISPA Link is available on the US market for $225. Unfortunately, it is not yet known when we will be able to plug and recycle in Europe. But I'll check the Nike launch calendar regularly for you.
Aufmacherbild: Pia Seidel
Always in the mood for good hits, great trips and clinking drinks.