As you might have noticed, the Knit design is one of the fastest-growing footwear classes. Initially pioneered by Nike as their Flyknit range, many other brands follow the Knit sneaker construction method.
In this article, I will look at some of the best available Knit Sneakers and Sneaker options today.
Table of Contents
- Some Knit Sneaker Facts
- The Benefits of a Knit Sneaker
- Features of a Good Flyknit Sneaker
- Reviews: The Best Knit Sneakers
- Index Table: Top Rated Knit Sneakers
Some Knit Sneaker Facts
The Knit design in footwear has radically simplified the sneaker construction technique and has saved on labor using a machine that knits at high speeds.
The knit-upper sneaker quickly evolves to newer, more advanced technologies and designs.
Here are a few fast facts on the Knit upper Sneaker;
- Stertch Knit Combination – The Knit upper combines stretchable and non-stretchable fibers that allow flexible movement and fit.
- 3D and 4D Knit – These methods employ different fibers and colored fiber for a 3D or 4D appearance and more color depth.
- TPU and Synthetic Overlays – TPU and Synthetic materials protect the knit fabric from snags in high-wear areas.
- Weaving Pads – There is an innovation where pads are weaved into the knit structure for a more comfortable design.
- Many Fibers – The Knit structure can be manufactured with an extensive choice of fibers and is not limited to individual fibers only.
- Breathable and Flexible – Knit uppers are more breathable and flexible than any other upper designs.
The Benefits of a Knit Sneaker
Here are a few of the Main Benefits of a Knit upper sneaker;
- Breathable – Knit sneakers are the most breathable and lightweight in sneaker materials.
- Flexible – The Knit upper can be blended with elastic materials, giving you a flexible upper that moves with you and adapts to your feet’ unique form.
- Color Depth – The 3D and 4D Knit upper design techniques allow more than two color fibers to be used so that in-depth and combination colors and patterns can be knit into the sneaker upper for more variety.
- Durable – Knit uppers are extremely durable and will last long, depending on the fibers used. Almost any fiber can be used to improve the durability of the uppers.
Features of a Good Flyknit Sneaker
- Uppers – Textile with synthetic overlays or without. Textile or fabric upper can be knit or woven.
- Footbed and Midsole – A cushioned footbed with Gel, Foam, or Memory Foam cushioning. EVA can be used in the midsole for shock absorbency.
- Outsole – Usually, rubber is used in most sneaker outsoles to provide the best traction.
- Support Technologies – Shoe manufacturers use support technologies such as an internal shank, heel cup, stability features, heel support, and arch support.
- Options – You can select from many color and style options. Some sneakers may even have more than two colors in their upper with a 3D or 4D print effect.
Reviews: The Best Knit Sneakers
Below are some of the most popular and sought-after knit sneakers that you will find;
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1
Breathable Knit Sneakers
One of the most popular and hard-to-find Flyknit sneakers on the market is the Vapormax from Nike.
- The Vapormax Air Technology ensures an extremely lightweight and soft feel.
- The Stretchable knit upper is beatable and adapts to your movements and foot shape.
- There are rubber pods in the sole on high-wear areas for added resistance.
- A midfoot cage likewise ensures excellent stability and support.
2
Lightweight Knit Sneakers
The Adidas Cloudfoam technology range is also quite popular for Knit upper designs and running sneakers.
- There is a textile knit upper that is extremely lightweight and breathable.
- The sole has a platform design and a rubber outsole.
- There is Cloudfoam technology cushioning that is highly responsive and comfortable.
- The design hugs the foot with a snug and flexible fit.
- You can choose between plenty of color options.
3
Knit Sneakers
The Zoku is a lightweight and comfortable sneaker for casual wear and boats the popular Knit upper construction.
- There are textile and synthetic knit uppers for lightweight ventilation and a comfortable fit.
- The insole is cushioned for comfort, and there is a shock-absorbing EVA midsole.
- The low-cut design ensures a comfortable fit and is more lightweight.
- There is also a high traction, durable rubber outsole.
- You can choose from many colors available in this sneaker model.
4
Gel Cushioned Knit Sneakers
The Asics Gel Kayano from their Tiger range boasts a fly knit upper design with the GEL cushioning Sole.
- The Knit upper is lightweight breathable, with a woven design for flexibility.
- There is a secure lace-up system for a snug fit.
- The Footbed is lightly padded for cushioning, and there is Gel cushioning for shock absorbency.
- The rubber outsole is durable and ensures excellent traction.
- A few neutral greys, whites, and black options are also available.
5
Sleek Knit Sneakers
The Nike Epic React features the Flyknit upper and extremely responsive cushioning technology for runners.
- A fabric fly knit upper and a supportive upper fit for comfort and security.
- The React Foam technology provides a softer and more responsive ride.
- There is also a heel cage and TPU heel clip for better stability in assuring fit.
- The rubber outsole provides excellent traction and durability.
6
Slip On Knit Sneakers
Here we have two slip-on sneakers from Skechers, both with Knit technology upper and comfortable, supportive designs.
- The upper consists of durable and flexible knit mesh.
- There are a comfortable memory foam insole and a durable synthetic sole.
- You can choose between a few color selections in both of these models.
- These sneakers are ideal for everyday casual wear and have an easy slip-on design.
7
Mesh Knit Sneakers
The Skechers Ultra Flex is a Knit Mesh design sneaker for everyday wear.
- The uppers are knit mesh with a fabric lining.
- The sole is flexible and comfortable with a rubber outsole.
- There are a soft cushioned insole and a supportive midsole.
- Some color options are available to you.
8
Knit Running Sneakers
The Adidas Pureboost is a Knit upper running shoe.
- The uppers are a soft and comfortable knit fabric.
- There is a stretched, web-design rubber outsole for better underfoot flexing.
- The insole is cushioned for comfort, and a Fitcounter Molded heel support is provided.
- You can also choose from a few blended knit color options.
9
Hypoknit Upper Sneaker
The New Balance 880 has the popular design Hypoknit mesh uppers.
- A durable Blown Rubber outsole for support and a 10 mm heel-to-toe drop.
- Fresh Foam cushioning is plush for underfoot comfort.
- The Hyponkit Uppers are breathable and flexible.
- You can also choose from a few color options in this shoe model.
Index Table: Top Rated Knit Sneakers
| No. | Shoe | Men ♂ | Women ♀ | Features | Brand | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nike® - Breathable Knit Sneakers |  |  |
| Nike | 98.6 |
| 2 | Adidas® - Lightweight Knit Sneakers |  |  |
| Adidas | 98.2 |
| 3 | Reebok® - Knit Sneakers |  |  |
| Reebok | 96.5 |
| 4 | Asics® - Gel Cushioned Knit Sneakers |  |  |
| Asics | 97.8 |
| 5 | Nike® - Sleek Knit Sneakers |  |  |
| Nike | 97 |
| 6 | Skechers® - Slip On Knit Sneakers |  |  |
| Skechers | 96.8 |
| 7 | Skechers® - Mesh Knit Sneakers |  |  |
| Skechers | 97.8 |
| 8 | Adidas® - Knit Running Sneakers |  |  |
| Adidas | 97.5 |
| 9 | New Balance® - Hypoknit Upper Sneaker |  |  |
| New Balance | 97.8 |
