As part of Nike78, 78 artists were asked to adapt the function of a pair of nikes, using sport as the theme. I received a pair of Nike Air Max, in a size 8.
I chose to draw inspiration from the Ninendo Wii, which has a whole host of sports games, with the Wii Fit being one of the most popular ways to exercise in modern living. This in mind I sort to change my trainers into a controller, for the wii and more specifically and wii balance board…
This was achieved through some re-wiring and simple placement of sensors within the sole of the trainers. Though I admit the astetics need a little work, the important thing is after a little fine turning here and there, they work, exactly like a balance board (if not a highly sensortive one). The user simply puts on the shoes, turns on the balance board/shoes (nike-wiis) and then plays as normal, except it’s not a normal way to play. As you are now physically attached the to the board, the actions have changed, you can no longer simply step off, so you must lift your foot and stand on one leg or sit down when no pressure is required, making for an altogether interestingly different experience.
Video of the nike-wiis at work coming soon.
Visit www.nike78.co.uk to see more from the project.
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