Although it’s been used sparingly since first coming to market more than 25 years ago, Foamposite remains one of Nike’s most emblematic technologies. Often used to refer to the Air Foamposite One sneaker in short-hand, Foamposite is the name of an advanced upper technology launched by Nike in 1997. By pouring liquid polyurethane into a mold as part of a process involving heat and pressure, Nike is able to create a single, sculpted piece to form a sneaker’s upper. The result is a snug and secure fit that almost molds to the foot and a sheeny, almost-iridescent finish that appears alien or as if it should be used for a superhero’s costume. Foamposite has primarily been put into use for basketball sneakers, beginning with the Air Foamposite One, which was also a signature sneaker for Penny Hardaway without appearing in the Air Penny line. Nike’s experimented with other applications such as mules and tennis shoes, but the results were mocked if not downright disastrous. Even the Foamposite One was a market failure upon its initial release, only becoming a true hit with a Retro release paving the way for new editions a decade later. Below, Footwear News takes you through
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