We’ve seen a lot running sneakers in our time and I’ve clocked my share of kilometres, but when I heard of the latest innovation from Nike, the Joyride Run Flyknit, I was thoroughly impressed. While the new kicks appear like any other sneaker, if you look closer and thousands of beads make up the newest cushioning system.

Following the Nike Air and Nike React, the Joyride is mixing up the way you run. Engineered to help keep legs fresh by delivering a personalised underfoot experience, the sneakers provide great impact absorption in a surprisingly light, energy-returning package.

After trialling 150 materials, TPE beads were selected to make up separate zonally-tuned pods within the underfoot sole. Designed for all runners, the soft cushioning and smooth transition helps ease impact – whether you’re a marathon runner or first-time novice – and expands in all directions to adapt to your individual footstrike.

Featuring a flyknit upper and no sock liner – so you’re standing directly on the beads – the Joyride is featured in several modern colourways with a translucent heel. Meaning you can not only flex a fresh pair of sneakers but boast some pretty eye-catching technology in the process. So whether you’re a runner or looking for kicks to brave the streets, the latest from Nike is a winner.

The Nike Joyride Run Flyknit will be available in Australia on August 15 for $250 via Nike and Nike stores.