IPod-Compatible Sneakers From Apple And Nike
12:21 pm, May 23rd, 2006, Leander Kahney
It’s a global mega-brand mashup!
Apple is teaming up with Nike to cross-promote sneakers and iPods. The footwear and earwear giants are soon launching a new line of iPod-compatible sneakers, plus a wireless pedometer-cum-connection-kit that pumps exercise feedback into runners’ ears. “Faster, fat ass!”
The Nike+iPod cross promotion encourages runners to buy a new pair of Nike+ sneakers, which have a little pocket for a wireless sensor. The wireless sensor is part of a $30 Nike+iPod Sport Kit from Apple, which is expected to ship within 60 days.
The Nike+iPod Sport Kit also includes a small receiver that plugs into the dock connector on the bottom of the iPod. Out on the road, the sensor sends data about time, distance, and pace to the iPod, which provides unspecified “workout-based voice feedback” while you run. Presumably, it’s encouraging.
Back at home, the iPod uploads the exercise data to the Mac or PC, and syncs with iTunes and the NikePlus website which records runs and sets goals. In addition, the site will allow runners to challenge each other to “virtual races” and download time- or distance-based workout routines. It will also offer sporty iMixes “chosen and introduced by top athletes.”
Posted by Leander Kahney in Clothing, iPod, iPod Accessories | Comment on this article
Hmm. An easy way to keep track of your habits. CIA and NSA will love these shoes.
xen ix, on May 23rd, 2006 at 12:50 pm
Very interesting. I’d like it. And the price not very big.
Andrey, on May 29th, 2006 at 9:28 am
My iPod is telling me that I can go the extra mile.
Mike Purvis, on June 2nd, 2006 at 7:06 am
I think it’s a great idea, and a great motivator to keep on training. Too bad Nike makes bad running shoes. They’re OK but do not compare with Mizuno, Asics, or New Balance. The shoes break down too quickly. So I don’t know how many real runners this will really attract.
sac, on June 9th, 2006 at 10:09 am
Why is this site kinda out of sync with the one at wired?
p.s. got the book : )
Stu, on June 15th, 2006 at 9:50 am
[...] I love my Mac and all things Apple but I’m not really sure I see the need for IPod compatible trainers… [...]
Martin Hoscik’s Personal Blog » Blog Archive » IPod Trainers, on June 18th, 2006 at 2:05 pm
I agree with sac that Nike running shoes stink compared to Asics, but really there is nothing special about the shoes other than a pocket for the chip that “talks” to your nano….I’m buying the chip and figuring out a way to attach it to my Asics!
Runningupnorth, on July 11th, 2006 at 3:31 pm
The Nike+iPod Sport Kit also includes a small receiver that plugs into the dock connector on the bottom of the iPod. Out on the road, the sensor sends data about time, distance, and pace to the iPod, which provides unspecified “workout-based voice feedback” while you run. Presumably, it’s encouraging.
Marys, on August 11th, 2006 at 7:36 am
I tried the Nike +ipod shoe and I really like using the Ipod trainers, it is REALLY helping train for running long distance. BUT the actual shoe is not the best, they wear out to fast. I wish Asics would make a pair that is compatible w/ my ipod. I can do what “runningupnorth” is doing and make it fit somehow.
blue, on January 24th, 2008 at 4:21 pm