When the Nike Adapt BB was released in 2019, the auto-lacing world predicted in Back To The Future was finally a reality. And this time it was more than just a movie prop. Nike had big plans to change the game of performance sneakers, but five years later, the Swoosh is divesting from the technology. Nike’s official statement informs owners of Adapt sneakers that the technology will still work without the app.
We released the Adapt BB, the self-lacing basketball shoe, along with its companion Adapt App in 2019. After five years, we’re retiring the Adapt App and removing it from the Apple and Android app stores, globally, on August 6, 2024.
Don’t worry, your Adapt shoes will continue to work without the app. See below for more information about the retirement of the Adapt App.
When it debuted, the Adapt BB was met with mixed reactions. Was it cool? Yes. Did it help you on the court? Not so much. Its bulk and weight sacrificed comfort for technology, and despite multiple NBA stars playing in them, the Adapt BB eventually fell out of game rotations. Nike made colorways inspired by the MAG, a 2.0 version, and added Adapt lacing to the iconic Air Jordan 11. Still, the high price tag and lukewarm reception suggested most people still preferred to lace up their sneakers the old-fashioned way. Fans of the Adapt app have taken to social media to express their frustration, but the move makes sense for Nike as it looks to cut costs amidst a recent plunge in stock value. Taking a swing at making auto-lacing real was something Nike had to do. For that, it should be applauded. Recognizing there is better consumer-facing innovation to focus on moving forward should be applauded, too.
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