Nike Tech Hera

Tech Hera

In the early 2020s, shoe brands delved into their archives, taking inspiration from the Y2K era to create modern sneakers with retro appeal. Nike made several new silhouettes with this classic look, including 2023’s chunky Tech Hera – a shoe named for the ancient Greek goddess.

The upper of the Nike Tech Hera features a textile underlayer set behind a collection of suede overlays that bring compelling depth to the design. These premium materials are highly durable but also flexible enough to fit snugly around the foot and provide great lockdown for a secure step. Ample padding on the collar and tongue adds softness and reduces lace pressure, while the heel pull tab makes for easy on and off.

Possibly the most visually distinctive element of the Tech Hera is its large platform sole. Undulating from heel to toe, it creates a series of eccentric curves that are reflected in the shape of the panelling on the upper. This exaggerated design also delivers maximum support as it forms a large stack of comfortable foam for the wearer to stand on. Beneath this, the full-length rubber outsole offers excellent grip via a unique tread pattern that matches the captivating style found across the rest of the sneaker.

The branding on the Tech Hera is beautifully simple, with various diminutive swooshes embroidered along the flanks and others located on the tongue, outsole and insole. Aesthetically, the shoe appears to be an evolution of earlier Nike models such as the M2K Tekno, and yet it establishes its own bold style through its unconventional lines and dynamic layering.

With its quirky looks, comfort-giving features and elevated sole, the Nike Tech Hera is both a stylish representation of early-2000s running shoes and the perfect sneaker for those who want to stand out on today’s city streets.