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On June 12, Nike introduced FlyWeb, a groundbreaking 3D-printed material designed for sportswear. Faith Kipyegon, the three-time Olympic champion and 1,500-meter world record holder, will be the first to showcase FlyWeb during her attempt to become the first woman to break the 4-minute mile. Developed by Nike’s Innovation team over three years of research into materials and computational design, FlyWeb was created to meet the specific demands of support, lightness, and breathability required in elite athletic performance.
While Nike has utilized 3D printing in footwear customization for some time, FlyWeb takes this technology further by applying it— for the first time— to sports bras. This innovation represents the beginning of a new era of 3D-printed, high-performance apparel for Nike.
FlyWeb is crafted from TPU, a highly elastic polymer that, with the aid of extrusion 3D printing, is formed into a seamless bra. The decision to debut this technology in a bra was intentional; bras, despite being essential for many athletes, have seen little change in their materials and construction over the years. Through computational design, Nike has developed a 3D matrix that varies in density and elasticity across different zones of the garment, providing targeted fit and support where most needed. The fabric is remarkably thin and delivers unparalleled breathability. “You can actually feel the air on your chest. Most women have never experienced that while running. We don’t even think about it because it’s just not something we’ve ever expected to feel,” explains Janett Nichol, Nike’s Vice President of Innovation.
Faith Kipyegon will wear a bespoke FlyWeb bra as she aims to break the 4-minute mile barrier on June 26 in Paris. This bra is one of several custom garments produced for her, but it stands out as the only piece utilizing 3D printing. In addition, Nike’s Research Lab team has developed the aerodynamic Nike Fly Suit and the ultralight Nike Victory Elike FK running shoes specifically for this event.
In this landmark moment, the FlyWeb bra is set to make a significant impact. Its capacity to reduce moisture and its featherlight feel make it particularly crucial for peak performance in an event as demanding as the mile. Looking beyond Kipyegon’s record attempt, FlyWeb represents a step toward the future of sportswear, with possibilities such as seamless construction, precision zone design, and on-demand production. “This is a true unlock, not just for bras but for how we design and build high-performance apparel going forward. It opens the door to entirely new ideas for how athletes experience sport through what they wear,” says Janett Nichol.
The applications for orthotics and prosthetics are obvious.
