Nike Flywire uses woven support cables in a shoe’s upper to help create a supportive fit.
Nike introduced Flywire as a way to reduce bulky layers while retaining structure around the foot. The cables were positioned to work with the lacing system, tightening support in targeted areas when the wearer pulled the laces.
The technology appeared in performance footwear across running, basketball and other sports. Its appeal came from combining low weight with a visible, technical construction that could be integrated into different upper materials.
Flywire is often confused with Flyknit. Flyknit refers to a knitted upper construction, while Flywire refers specifically to the support-cable system. Both technologies can appear in Nike shoes, but they describe different parts of the design.