Nike announced a strategic investment in Handsfree Labs, a developer of hands-free footwear technology.
The technology enables consumers to step in and out of shoes more easily without lacing or the use of hands. Nike did not reveal more details.
“Our partnership with Handsfree builds on Nike’s leadership in using innovative technology to meet consumer needs,” said Tom Clarke, Nike President of Innovation.
Nike, based near Beaverton, Oregon, said its FlyEase platform is aimed at providing greater access to sport for all athletes, and the Handsfree technology has the potential to enhance this effort by removing barriers to play and making sport easier for more people.
HandsFree Labs, based in Vineyard, Utah, is led by innovator Mike Pratt. HandsFree Labs features patented step-in shoe technologies branded as F.A.S.T. (Foot Activated Shoe Technology) and is a parent of footwear brands KIZIK and PILAR.
“Handsfree Labs is passionate about bringing the comfort and convenience of hands-free shoes to everyone, and our partnership with Nike accelerates this vision,” said Mike Pratt, founder and CEO of Handsfree Labs.
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