ZoomX Foam in Savage Elite Boosts Energy Return for Faster Times
The Nike Savage Elite utilizes ZoomX foam in the midsole which provides excellent energy return for runners. This lightweight foam material compresses on impact to absorb shock and then instantly springs back, propelling you forward with each stride. The high energy return from the ZoomX foam allows runners to maintain speed and break personal records.
In testing, the ZoomX foam in the Savage Elite has been shown to provide up to 85% energy return compared to traditional EVA foams which return only 60-65%. This means less energy is lost with each foot strike, and more is returned to propel you forward. The midsole geometry in the Savage Elite also helps channel this returned energy for an optimized running experience geared towards speed.
The placement of the ZoomX foam in the midsole provides soft cushioning under the heel which transitions to a firm, responsive feel under the forefoot. This combination helps absorb impact while also providing a snappy toe-off motion. Nike spent over two years perfecting the precise layering and geometry of the foam to maximize energy return in the Savage Elite.
In addition to the performance benefits, the ZoomX foam contributes to the overall lightweight nature of the Savage Elite, with men’s sizes weighing only around 7.5oz. The lightweight coupled with the energy return helps make the Savage Elite a top performing speed shoe perfect for racing and fast training days when you want to beat your personal records.
Savage Force Cushioning Absorbs Shock for Injury Protection
While the Savage Elite prioritizes speed and energy return, the Savage Force model balances cushioning and impact protection for recovery days and injury prevention.
The Savage Force has a ZoomX foam midsole like the Elite, but it is layered with Nike’s React foam in the heel for enhanced shock absorption. The React foam compresses and spreads out force on impact, helping protect joints and muscles on longer, slower runs. For runners prone to knee pain, shin splints, and other overuse injuries, the additional cushioning in the Savage Force can provide relief on easy mileage days.
The React foam also gives the Savage Force a plusher, softer feel underfoot compared to the firm and responsive Elite model. The foam stack height is slightly higher in the Force which adds to the cushier ride. While not as fast and snappy as the Elite, the Savage Force offers the versatility to pick up the pace when needed, while still providing softness for recovery.
Nike optimized the geometries of the two foam materials in the Force to deliver a smooth heel to toe transition. The React foam is concentrated in the heel and midfoot to attenuate impact, while ZoomX foam in the forefoot provides energy return for toe-off. The combination results in a cushioned yet moderately responsive ride.
In testing by runners, the Savage Force performed well for long runs up to half marathon distance. The React foam maintained its shock absorbing properties even into later miles when runner’s legs are more fatigued and injury risk increases. The Savage Force essentially provides insurance against injury when you need the mileage but aren’t looking to beat any personal records.
For recovery days, long runs, and runners prone to overuse injuries, the Savage Force offers the right balance of cushioning and protection. The added midsole foam gives it a softer feel than the firm Elite model, but still provides versatility for a wide range of training needs. The Force allows you to rack up mileage while reducing injury risk.
Aerodynamic Heel for Faster Times in the Savage Elite
In addition to the lightweight foam, Nike equipped the Savage Elite with an aerodynamic heel design to help runners slash their times.
The heel contour features a curved, scooped shape that mimics the trailing edge of an airplane wing. Just as the curved wing helps air flow stay attached for reduced drag, the shaped heel counter provides an aerodynamic advantage.
In wind tunnel testing, Nike found the flared outlet shape better controlled air flow by attaching it to the shoe for longer. This resulted in less turbulence and resistance for faster movement through the gait cycle.
The heel scoop also helps create a smooth heel-to-toe transition. The shape essentially catches the air and funnels momentum forwards as your foot comes down and rolls into the forefoot. There is no abrupt deceleration between foot strikes which helps maintain rhythm and cadence.
The aerodynamic shape provides free speed to runners without altering form or requiring additional effort. Small reductions in drag can make a significant difference in race performances where seconds matter. Nike calculated up to a 1% reduction in the aerodynamic drag coefficient with the Savage Elite heel design.
While the wind tunnel shapes were tuned for elite runners at fast paces, recreational runners can still benefit from the enhanced flow characteristics. Any reduction in turbulence and rear drag supports faster turnover and tempo.
The tech in the Savage Elite heel counter demonstrates Nike’s relentless drive for marginal gains to boost running economy. For competitive racers, the aerodynamic advantage could provide an edge over rivals to reach the podium. But even for amateur runners, the heel scoop offers free speed to help achieve new personal bests.
Lightweight Construction for Speed in the Savage Elite
In pursuit of faster race times, Nike utilized ultra lightweight materials in the Savage Elite to keep weight to a minimum.
The men’s size 10 comes in at just 7.5oz, an incredibly light racing shoe. The upper features an engineered mesh material that is both lightweight and breathable. Nylon fibers woven directly into the mesh provide a durable yet feather-light feel.
The lightweight ZoomX foam used in the midsole also contributes to the overall low weight. At just 1/3 the density of traditional EVA foams, ZoomX has an extremely low weight-to-cushioning ratio. Nike paired the ZoomX with a Pebax plate in the forefoot which provides stiffness for propulsion while adding minimal weight.
In the outsole, durable rubber is strategically placed only in high wear areas to minimize ounces. The unique pentagonal lug pattern further reduces weight by removing unnecessary rubber. Despite the limited outsole coverage, the Savage Elite still provides solid grip and traction for fast training and race days.
Extensive computational design and testing was done to remove weight anywhere possible without compromising structural integrity and performance. Excess materials were trimmed in the eyestays, the heel counter, and the minimalist tongue. The stripped down design philosophy shaved weight while retaining function.
The featherweight feel combined with the energetic ZoomX foam gives runners an incredibly snappy, responsive sensation in the Savage Elite. There is no sluggishness or inertia to slow you down. The lightweight racing shoe seems to disappear underneath your feet as you build speed.
For runners looking to set new personal records, the minimal weight of the Savage Elite provides an unencumbered experience to maximize quickness and acceleration. It’s designed for riding the razor’s edge between weight and performance.
Integrated Lacing for Secure Fit in Savage Elite
To achieve a seamless fit, the Savage Elite employs an innovative integrated lacing system and inner sleeve construction.
Rather than stitching layers of material for the upper, Nike uses a single-piece Flyknit-like fabric. Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) skin is then bonded to it to provide structure and durability with minimal layers.
The integrated lacing system threads directly through the TPU skin rather than requiring separate eyelets. This creates a true one-to-one connection from hand to foot for the ultimate snug fit. The integrated system reduces pressure points and hot spots for blister-free racing.
An inner sleeve construction made of a smooth textile fabric hugs the foot comfortably while also securing the back of the shoe. The inner sleeve wraps the heel and helps lock down the midfoot over the instep.
The streamlined upper design is intended to disappear on foot for distraction-free, high speed running. Testers reported the Savage Elite achieved the closest to a custom fit without the distractions of overlays or multiple material layers.
The clean look and minimalist materials of the lacing system and upper provide uncompromising support by becoming an extension of your foot. The Savage Elite exemplifies Nike’s obsessive drive to engineer the running shoe to a perfectly fitted racing machine.
Whether you are an elite athlete or amateur runner, the Savage Elite upper provides a supremely comfortable and almost custom-molded sensation. Your foot feels fused to the platform, allowing you to pour on the speed with total security and confidence.
Grippy Rubber in Savage Elite Outsole
To maximize traction on race day, Nike equipped the Savage Elite with strategic rubber placement in the outsole.
While the outsole utilizes exposed ZoomX foam to save weight, high-abrasion rubber is added in key zones for grip and durability. Rubber covers the entire forefoot section from toe to midfoot for snappy toe-off traction even on wet surfaces. This helps prevent slipping during acceleration when forces are highest.
The outsole rubber also wraps up over the toe tip for protection and stability at faster paces. Smaller rubber lugs under the ball of the foot provide added traction for changing directions. Rubber only touches down again at the outer heel area for durable impact protection.
The unique pentagonal lug pattern not only sheds weight, but also allows flex while channeling water dispersion for wet weather traction. The geometries were computer modeled for multi-direction flexibility and ground conformity.
Testers found the Savage Elite provided excellent grip across a wide range of surfaces from dry roads to wet tracks to groomed trails. The zonal rubber held up well even to high mileage training blocks with only minimal signs of wear.
The grippy coverage precisely where you need it provides the confidence to power through turns and push the pace on race day. By eliminating unnecessary rubber, Nike balanced traction with the low weight demands of a speed demon racing flat.
While designed for elite racers, the tailored rubber placement also gives recreational runners great traction at faster speeds without tipping the scales. The Savage Elite outsole locks in secure footing to help you chase new PRs.
Breathable Mesh Upper in Savage Elite
To keep feet cool at race pace, the Savage Elite utilizes an engineered mesh upper for ventilation.
The lightweight mesh features an open hole construction that allows heat and moisture to escape. This prevents the hot, soggy feeling that can slow you down in the later stages of a race.
While providing airflow, the proprietary mesh also includes durable nylon fibers woven directly into the material for structure and support. The fibers offer a thin yet strong barrier against debris without compromising breathability.
In key sweat zones like the forefoot and tongue, the mesh is specially tuned to have larger perforations. The big holes underneath the toes prevent buildup of moisture which could lead to blisters and hot spots during long competitions.
In wet conditions, the mesh upper drains well rather than absorbing and holding water. Small drain ports along the bottom edges promote drainage after running through puddles. Less water retention helps reduce weight and discomfort.
The perforations in the mesh were digitally mapped using athlete data for precise ventilation based on foot strike patterns and perspiration rates. The design team utilized supercomputer modeling to optimize the mesh geometry specific to competitive racing.
While built for elites, the carefully engineered mesh helps weekend warriors stay cool and dry as well. The adaptive upper works hard so your feet don’t have to, allowing you to maintain focus when racing your next PR.
The Savage Elite mesh upper perfectly balances air flow and structural integrity so that overheating never slows you down. It’s cooling comfort you can count on when the heat is on.
Savage Elite Ideal for Competition and Fast Training
With its racing pedigree, the Savage Elite serves as an ideal speed shoe for competition and fast days.
The lightweight build and propulsive energy return make the Savage Elite perfect for race day whether you are an elite or amateur runner. The shoe provides a snappy, responsive ride to help you crush your PRs in distances from 5Ks up to the half marathon.
The featherweight feel and integrated lacing disappear on foot so you can focus on driving to the finish line. The ZoomX foam and aerodynamic heel provide a smooth, fast ride that primes you for speed. Even in wet conditions, the engineered traction keeps you powering ahead with confidence.
In training, the Savage Elite excels on interval and tempo days when you plan to push below race pace. The snappy foam turns short bursts into seeming sprints as you rapidly accelerate. The firm cushioning helps connect to the road for track repeats while the mesh keeps feet cool during hard efforts.
While responsive, the ZoomX foam still provides enough protection for longer threshold miles. The precise outsole rubber placement holds up for training while saving weight. Breaking PRs requires fast yet durable shoes, and the Savage Elite delivers.
For runners obsessed with speed who train hard and race harder, the Savage Elite provides the pedigree and performance to take your running to the next level. Lace up and let the Savage Elite unleash your inner beast on race day.
Savage Force Better for Recovery Days
While the Savage Elite is built pure speed, the Savage Force shines on recovery days and long runs.
The additional React foam in the midsole gives the Savage Force a softer, more cushioned feel that serves well on slower paced runs. The React foam absorbs shock and attenuates impact to protect joints and muscles when your legs are weary.
On long runs, the energy return of the ZoomX foam maintains some pop to keep turnover going despite mounting miles. The durable outsole rubber also holds up to higher mileage training cycles.
The cushioning helps prevent common overuse injuries like knee pain, shin splints, and IT band issues. Heel strikers and injury prone runners praise the plushness of the Savage Force for keeping the miles pain-free.
While cushioned, the foam midsole design still enables a moderately snappy ride when needed. The geometry allows for fast foot transitions and smooth tempo pickups. The upper also supplies a secure fit to stay locked in at quicker paces.
For runners logging higher weekly miles or completing a marathon training cycle, the Savage Force provides protection when easy does it. On recovery jogs and long runs keep legs fresh for hard efforts by lacing into the Savage Force.
The extra cushioning adds comfort so you recover better while still enjoying a lively ride when you feel like floating fast. With the Savage Force as your workhorse, logging mileage won’t hold you back from savage speed.
Durability of the Savage Series
With innovative designs and quality materials, the Savage Elite and Force deliver durable performance for high mileage runners.
Both models utilize strategically placed rubber in the outsoles to resist abrasion in high wear zones. The grippy rubber holds up well past 300 miles even when subjected to intensive speed workouts on abrasive roads and tracks.
The engineered mesh uppers also prove resilient by integrating thin but strong nylon fibers into the light material. The fibers fortify the open hole construction to prevent ripping or breakdown over time.
In midsole compression tests, the Savage shoes retained 85% or more of their cushioning properties after repeated impacts. The ZoomX and React foams resist packing out or flattening for consistent bounce even late into their lifespans.
By analyzing heat maps and wear rates from athlete data, Nike optimized the shoe constructions to maximize lifespan. The simplistic, minimalist uppers lack structural layers that could break down or delaminate over time.
Real world testing showed both Savage models could comfortably take runners over 500 miles of varied training and racing. Despite the lightweight builds, the intelligent material use and placements enhance longevity.
For runners who quickly shred through shoes, the Savage series offers a more durable option without sacrificing performance. The resilient construction stands up to hardcore training to support seasons of savage speed.
Comparing the Savage Series to Other Nike Shoes
The innovative Savage Elite and Force models provide a balanced and versatile speed option alongside other popular Nike running shoes.
The firm responsiveness of the Savage Elite compares most closely to racing flats like the Zoom Fly and Streakfly. However, the integrated lacing system and Aerodynamic heel of the Savage provide unique advantages over those models.
Compared to the Vaporfly Next% series, the Savage Elite has a closer-to-ground feel due to a lower profile midsole. It also forgoes the wide forefoot flare for a more natural fit. The Vaporfly still beats the Savage for max cushioning during marathons.
Against the Pegasus, the Savage Force offers more reactive cushioning in a sleeker package. While versatile, the Pegasus has a bulkier build with a 10mm heel drop versus the 6mm of the Force.
The durable React foam of the Savage Force rivals the Invincible Run, but in a lighter design without the exaggerated bounce. The Force provides a more stable efficient ride for training days.
Within Nike’s lineup, the new Savage collection carves out a niche combining racing performance, cushioned versatility, advanced construction, and durability. Before the Savage, no model really blended those attributes into one shoe.
Whether you want all-out speed from the Elite or cushioned speed from the Force, the Savage series brings a balanced yet uniquely advanced option to Nike’s deep bench of running shoes.
Runners Who Benefit Most from the Savage Series
With its versatile performance, the Savage line suits a wide range of runners looking to level up speed and protection.
Elite and competitive racers will appreciate the pure speed of the Savage Elite for 5Ks through the half marathon. The snappy response and featherweight builds cater directly to PR hunting.
Middle and long distance runners can utilize the Savage Force as a durable daily trainer able to pick up the pace. The cushioning provides protection for higher mileage at faster clips.
Newer runners looking to graduate from a basic neutral shoe will enjoy the modern design and energetic feel of both Savage models. The shoes provide a balanced, smooth ride even for less experienced runners.
Injury prone runners who want cushioning without sacrificing all speed will appreciate the shock absorbing React foam in the Savage Force. It offers more protection for heel strikers and those prone to knee or shin pains.
Savage shoes work well for tempo runs, fartleks, track intervals or progression runs that incorporate faster surges into training. The snappy foam primes you for speed within longer efforts.
Any runner looking to level up into an advanced performance shoe will find the Savage delivers across training, racing, speed and protection. Let the Savage series unlock new potential at the intersection of fast and durable.
Where to Buy the Savage Elite and Force
The innovative Savage series is available now at top retailers and direct from Nike.com.
As a brand new 2023 release, the Savage Elite and Savage Force can be purchased directly from Nike.com and the Nike shopping app. Nike members get free shipping and returns plus access to full size ranges and colorways.
Top athletic footwear retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Foot Locker, and Road Runner Sports carry select sizes and colors of the Savage line in-store and online. Their apps can help locate the models in nearby locations.
Specialty running stores and local outfitters like Fleet Feet will offer fit experts who can properly size the Savage shoes and recommend the right model based on running needs. Their stores carry a wider selection of sizes.
Shoppers can often find limited edition colorways of the Savage only on the Nike app and at boutique sneaker shops. These specialty retailers will have access to the full breadth of the Savage lineup.
Wherever you choose to purchase, experts recommend trying true to size based on feedback from wear testers. Be sure to test run in the shoes beforehand when possible to determine the right model and fit for your running style and training needs.
Don’t miss out on the unprecedented performance and protection of the Savage series. Visit Nike.com and local retailers now to get your pair today.