Nike releases Flyease, a shoe for disabled athletes

Footwear giant Nike released recently a pair of shoes that allows easy entry and closure for people with disabilities. Dudded as Zoom Soldier 8 Flyease, the shoes open at the back near the heel-counter, making it easier for the feet to slide in and out. The footwear also features a wrap-around zipper closure, eliminating the need to tie traditional laces.

The shoes were inspired by the letter written three years ago of then-high school student Matthew Walzer who had dexterity in only one of his hands as a result of being born with cerebral palsy. His letter landed in the hands of Nike CEO Mark Parker who passed to the company's senior director of athlete innovation Tobie Hatfield. What happened next was three years of collaboration between Walzer and Hatfield, culminating in the launch of Zoom Soldier 8 Flyease last July 16.

Apart from facilitating entry, closure and adjustment, the footwear has a hi-top structure that provides the ankle support needed by people who share Walzer's condition.

Zoom Soldier 8 Flyease is now available in limited supply in the Nike Web store.

Currently, Nike is working developing the model further and plans to release running shoes that adopt the Flyease technology. The Zoom Soldier 8 Flyease were also worn by two US basketball teams that competed in the 2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Los Angeles.

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