Nike launches its smart sneaker Cryptokicks iRL

Nike has launched its smart sneaker Cryptokicks iRL in collaboration with RTFKT, the Web 3 company known for its digital avatars and metaverse collectibles.

The Cryptokicks iRL is the first native Web3 sneaker featuring technology that combines decades of Nike Sneaker innovation with RTFKT’s vision to merge the digital and physical worlds.

The sneaker features auto-lacing, enhanced lighting, haptic feedback, gesture control, walk detection, app connectivity, AI/ML algorithms and wireless charging via the RTFKT Powerdeck. Available in four styles – Blackout, Ice, Space Matter and Stone – the prices range from $450 to $1,000.

Our next-gen innovation drop
Cryptokicks iRL 👟⚡️
1st native web3 sneaker
Combining decades of @Nike tech 👨‍🔬
& RTFKT vision to merge worlds 🌎🌐
Details & FAQ: https://t.co/0I5cwrd8bb pic.twitter.com/A1jP8xg0NZ

— RTFKT (@RTFKT) December 5, 2022

The Cryptokicks iRL collection pays homage to the Nike Mag, which debuted in 1989 with the release of the ‘Back to the Future 2’ film. The Air Mag was designed by sneaker legend Tinker Hatfield and then brought to life by Nike innovation teams in charitable auctions in 2011 and 2016 with auto-lacing tech.

Cryptokicks iRL are customisable digital sneakers that live on the Ethereum blockchain. Each one is unique and can be purchased as a Non-Fungible Token (NFT).

As stated on RTFKT’s official website, the real-life Cryptokicks present a number of impressive features, including a lacing system that automatically adjusts to a comfortable, pre-programmed fit shortly after you start walking.

In addition, the shoes are powered by a rechargeable battery and allow the wearer to select different colors and animations to light up as they walk. Each pair comes with a wireless power deck that can connect to the Cryptokicks iRL app via bluetooth. The sneakers are equipped with RTFKT’s latest WM (world merging) NFC chip that enables users to authenticate each physical copy with its digital counterpart to verify legitimacy.

The sneakers will be limited to 19,000 pieces and the colourway breakdown will be determined by collectors’ choice. They will be sold as digital collectibles (NFTs) that redeem physical counterparts, in a process RTFKT calls forging.

Lace Engine NFT holders will have the opportunity to purchase a pair of Cryptokicks iRL sneakers from December 12 to 16. From December 7 to 9, non-NFT owners can sign up for a raffle on the RTFKT website. They will then be able to purchase leftover pairs on December 14, unless the entire stock from the initial sale is sold out. Final prices from ETH will be adjusted to the ETH /USD value on the day of minting.