Nike Flywire is the technology that uses thin support cables integrated into the upper of some shoes.
Nike introduced Flywire as a way to provide lightweight support around the foot. The strands work with the lacing system, helping hold the foot in place while allowing designers to reduce heavier layers of material.
The technology became visible in several Nike performance shoes, especially running and basketball models. Its appearance and construction varied by product, but the central idea remained targeted support with minimal weight.
Flywire is frequently confused with Flyknit. Flywire refers to the support strands, while Flyknit refers to a knitted upper construction. A shoe can use one technology, the other, or both. Neither term describes Nike’s Air cushioning, which is a separate sole-unit technology.