Nike Air Zoom FlyEase: New Pegasus 35 model provides 'accessibility' and comfort

Nike’s decision to launch their new FlyEase trainers under the sell of a more ‘accessible’ running shoe caught the eye.

More accessible is a simple enough catch-phase, but who would benefit from a shoe which has a zip instead of traditional laces?

Perhaps as a standalone the zip-strap combination seems a bit of an odd feature - but as a package it works to great effect.

Needless to say, I was curious. With a place booked for Hackney's annual half marathon in May, I decided to give the new runners a whirl.

For context; the previous model - the Pegasus 34s - had been a trusted ally for my first ever long-distance run.

At that time, I had used a fresh new pair to run the race - Royal Parks half marathon - which was a great success.

Back then, still fresh from the running high, I thought i'd sign up for Hackney. What can I say? It seemed like a terrific idea at the time.

By chance, Nike - who later sponsored Hackney - had released their newest model early in 2019.

Spurred on by the idea - and part superstition? - of trying new equipment for my latest challenge, I thought it would be fun to try them out.

From the first training run to the last, the trainers provided a good degree of comfort.

Nike referred to an improved cushioning system which ‘delivers a springy, responsive feel’ and the phrase is apt.

It is a particular relief if, like me, the impact of running leaves a big strain on the knees.

Each step felt like an extra spring, while the feet were provided adequate protection with a new, improved, upper mesh, which has become somewhat synonymous with the Air Zooms.

But how about those zip-up heels?

They provided a peculiar feeling I had not previously encountered; my heels seemed completely weightless. There was no rubbing, no grazing or discomfort.

The ‘lace-free closure system’, as they call it, adds to the practicality - but there are straps to adjust the fit.

And, as an added bonus, it helps reduce procrastination time. Planning to run? Zip them up and off you go.

Indeed Nike runner Sophie Hahn, who has cerebral palsy, adds a different perspective.

She told media: “The Nike FlyEase makes you feel confident.

“I can just turn up and not worry about tying or untying them, they’re so much easier to put on and take off.

“You also know that when you run, they aren’t going to come undone, there’s no need to keep bending down tying them up. They make a massive difference.”

Combine these features together and you’re on to a winner. Ahead of my own race, the FlyEase 35s helped me top my personal best by several minutes.

In all, they provided as pleasant as experience as you might expect while running; adequate foot support with a renewed spring.

And at the end of the 21 kilometre track, you could immediately unzip and release those feet.