Introducing the Nike React Atlas

Nike have a new lifestyle shoe incoming called the React Atlas. As its name suggests, the model incorporates React cushioning technology, which has been incrementally improved and applied widely throughout the brand’s catalogue since its introduction in 2018. While originally developed for performance use, like many shoes in the contemporary ‘athleisure’ space, React soon found itself in the realm of casual wear, which has spurred the Swoosh to create street-ready designs such as the one pictured above.

Generally speaking, Nike’s successful React models eschewed the chunky and oversized proportions that many other shoes used when the technology debuted in the late 2010s (not to say that the brand didn’t try their hand at big silhouettes). Memories of popular releases from years gone by like the React Element 87 could have been an easy starting point, but rather than rehash old ideas, the React Atlas opts for a more flowing and ‘organic’ shape.

It begins up top, with moulded mesh one-piece uppers somewhat reminiscent of the Air Max 720, which joins to the distinct React midsole with its cored-out portions. Nike have added some extra contrasting blocks on the arch, toe and heel, likely offering some extra support.

Check out these two upcoming colourways ahead of an expected release later this year.