NEWS

After a long wait of almost 6 years, Nike has already presented its next model, which will be available in our shop in the coming days: the HyperKO 3, the third generation of the brand's most iconic boxing boot.

If you don't know the history of these boots, the original HyperKO was launched in 2012 for the London Olympics and became famous for being the boot worn by Manny Pacquiao, who even had a personalised version with his initials «MP» on the side. That boot revolutionised boxing footwear thanks to Nike's Flywire technology, which offered lightness and support in equal measure.

The HyperKO 2 arrived in 2020, also coinciding with an Olympics (Tokyo), with a more minimalist design based on Flyknit. It was the boot worn by José Ramírez amongst others.

And now, with the HyperKO 3, Nike is aiming directly at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics as its reference boot.

If you've had the chance to use the HyperKO line, you already know that "glove on the foot" feeling. With the third version, Nike has managed to modernise a classic without losing the essence of its previous models, which is no easy task.

What's new in the HyperKO 3?

The most striking figure is the weight: 10.2 ounces (about 289 grams), making it the lightest boxing boot Nike has ever made. Visually it's a hybrid between the HyperKO 1 and 2: more streamlined than the original but not as minimalist as the second version.

As for technical innovations:

• Super Critical Foam insole: a technology borrowed from marathon running that offers cushioning with greater energy return and superior durability. It's not the typical insole that flattens after a few months of intensive use.
• Forefoot strap: the support strap that the HyperKO 1 had returns, which disappeared in the 2. It's an important detail for boxers who work a lot on angle changes and lateral movements, as it locks the foot and prevents it from sliding inside the boot during sharp turns.
• Lace management system: another point Nike has improved. The HyperKO 3 includes a "lace garage" (a Velcro pocket on the tongue to store the laces once tied) and a hook at the back of the collar for when you wrap the laces around the ankle. Anyone who's had a loose lace in the middle of sparring knows how important this is.
• Upper with moulded overlays: they provide structure and support without sacrificing flexibility.
• Thin sole with multidirectional traction: herringbone pattern on the rubber, ideal for pivots and explosive direction changes whilst maintaining the "ring feel" that boxers seek.

Colours

The HyperKO 3 arrives in several colour combinations: the classic black/white and white/gold, a striking black/fuchsia, and a special edition in two different colours: blue and orange, which will undoubtedly get people talking in gyms.

Personally we think Nike is going to get it right with this third version by recovering elements that worked in the HyperKO 1 (like the strap) and combining them with current technology.