The Nike Hyper KO is one of the most recognised boot silhouettes in modern-day boxing. Nike introduced the first rendition of the Hyper KO in the early 2000s and it quickly became one of the most popular boxing boots on the market. The boots' popularity forced Nike to bring out a second rendition in the summer of 2020, the Nike HyperKO 2.0.
The hyperKO 2.0 is an updated version of the ultra-popular boxing boot from Nike and promises to feature improved comfortability and performance. So what are the main differences between the Nike HyperKO and the Nike hyperKO 2.0?
In this article, we will examine why the hyperKO is so popular, how the Nike HyperKO 2.0 differs from the 1.0 and so much more.
Why Is The Nike HyperKO So Popular?
The Nike HyperKO boxing boots are the go-to choice for a vast majority of pros, and it is clear to see why. Nike is a global powerhouse in both the sporting and of course shoe industries and therefore has an incredible pull when it comes to releasing any kind of sportswear products.
However, the popularity of these boxing boots is down to far more than just the brand. Both renditions of the boot feature premium quality materials, ankle support, and technology to ensure exceptional comfort and performance both in the ring and during training. The incredible performance of the boxing boot paired with the ultra-stylish look of the boot makes these the perfect choice for your next pair of boots.
The Differences In The Construction Of The Boots
The HyperKO 2.0 is a fully reinvented silhouette compared to the original. Meaning that the differences between the two pairs are pretty much night and day. The 2.0 is an update on all of the technology and processes used on the 1,0. The main differences in the boot's construction are:
The Upper
While both uppers share the same purpose of being as lightweight and as fitted as possible they both feature completely different technologies. The 1.0 features Nike's old flywire technology which is made up of Vectran and nylon and was designed to minimize weight while maximizing comfort.
The upper of the HyperKO 2.0 is made up of Nike's extremely popular Flyknit technology. This ultra-popular material uses high-strength fibres to create an ultra-lightweight upper that hugs the foot to create unprecedented support, breathability, and comfort. Making it perfect for boxing boots.
In addition to this, the HyperKO 1.0 features a forefront strap to provide incredible lockdown support. Whereas the whole upper of the 2.0 features a lightweight cage support to ensure an exceptional lockdown throughout the foot.
The Midsole
Another huge difference between the two boots is their midsole. The 1.0 and 2.0 both feature very supportive and stable midsoles, however, the 2.0 features a brand-new construction to help further improve upon the midsole of the original silhouette.
The midsole of the original is made from an ultra-low profile and rigid rubber sole which was carefully designed with both stability and traction in mind. The sole is extremely robust and is therefore designed to last both in the ring and during vigorous training sessions.
For the HyperKO 2.0, Nike updated the midsole to a split rubber sole. This new addition allows for improved foot flexibility, traction, and comfort. Ensuring high-quality stability and comfortability throughout the rounds.
The Cushioning
One of the only problems that were found with the HyperKO 1.0 was the cushioning within the boot. People often found the lack of cushioning a problem, which is why Nike decided to add cutting-edge cushioning technology to the HyperKO 2.0.
The drop-in cushioning added to the second rendition of the Nike boxing boot helps to not only provide advanced and exceptional cushioning but also incredible shock absorption protection. This allows a fighter to move around the ring with complete comfort and protection ensuring that their full focus is on the fight.
The Difference In The Performance Of The Boxing Boots
While the construction of both boots is completely different, their performance is very similar. Both pairs of boxing boots truly are at the pinnacle of the boxing boot market and therefore perform phenomenally both inside the ring and inside the boxing gym.
Ankle Support
Ankle support is incredibly important in boxing. This is because fighters are constantly moving, on their toes, twisting and changing direction within the ring. This kind of movement can leave boxers incredibly susceptible to sprains, strains, and other ankle injuries.
As with any high-quality pair of boxing boots, both HyperKOs have been designed with ankle support and protection in mind. This is because they feature a high-top style with incredible lockdown abilities to ensure that your ankle is as secure as it needs to be to allow fighters to manoeuvre around the ring comfortably.
Agility
Agility is one of the most important tools that a boxer can have. This is because boxers need to be constantly on their toes and create different angles through their movement to throw punches that their opponents cannot see. Ensuring that your boxing boots have enough grip and support to aid your agile movements is vital.
Both HyperKo 1.0 and 2.0 feature outsoles that have incredible traction and durability. This ensures that fighters can move around the ring, change direction, and create angles with the piece of mind that their boots are up to the task.
Breathability
Another very important feature of a high-quality boxing boot is its breathability. This is because breathable materials help to increase the comfort of a boot and therefore make a boot more enjoyable for a fighter to wear. In addition to this, materials with poor breathability can cause the feet to sweat excessively throughout a fight. This can lead to added water weight and also poor odours.
Both flyknit and flywire materials are incredibly breathable and lightweight allowing for ultimate comfort, ventilation, and also moisture management. This is one of the many reasons why so many fighters love both renditions of the Nike HyperKO’s.
Nike Hyper KO Boxing Boots & Nike HyperKO 2.0 Boxing Boots From Geezers Boxing
Here at Geezers Boxing, we stock both Nike HyperKO and Nike HyperKO 2.0 boxing boots in a wide variety of colourways. We also stock a range of limited-edition colourways such as the Nike HyperKO 2.0 Olympic colourway as well as a huge variety of Junior Nike HyperKO 1.0 and Junior Nike HyperKO 2.0 colourways. So no matter what you are looking for, our range has you covered.
