Nike’s Hit New Experimental Mind Sneakers Are Getting Even Weirder

Nike’s new science-backed Mind franchise is still relatively new, having released in only one colorway each for the Mind 001 mule and Mind 002 sneaker, respectively. With plenty more colorways on the horizon, a new teaser suggests that the viral footwear is only going to get even more experimental soon.

Over the last few days, Fragment Design founder Hiroshi Fujiwara has been slowly trickling out teasers of a previously unseen Fragment Design x Nike Mind 002 sneaker with an all-new Flyknit upper. Previewed thus far in tonal black and gray colorways, the nodular-cushioned shoe’s midsole features “Fragment concept testing” text along with codes suggesting the collaborative pair will arrive at retail during spring 2026.

While the underfoot setup of the Fragment Design collaboration appears to feature the same 22-node midsole used on in-line Mind 002 releases, the upper has been completely redesigned, replacing the model’s standard knit upper with Nike’s more intricate Flyknit technology. The result is a multi-textured, sock-like shoe which also includes a revamped lacing system complete with Fragment Design-branded lace locks.

Along with the just-previewed Mind 002, Fujiwara has previously teased a Fragment Design x Mind 001 mule.

Nike’s sock-like Flyknit sneakers were unavoidable in the 2010s, appearing first on the Flyknit Racer and Flyknit Trainer in 2012. The knitted technology was used on both performance and lifestyle sneakers including signature models for LeBron James and Kobe Bryant as well as Nike, Inc. staples such as Air Force 1s, Air Maxes and Air Jordans. The tech has been seen less in recent years, making the timing of this Fragment Design collaboration somewhat curious, but it could also be an indication that we’ll be seeing more Flyknit in the future.

The Mind line was revealed by the brand in October and arrived at retail in January. According to Nike, the shoes are the result of more than 10 years of engineering and manufacturing. The first offerings from its Mind Science Department, the Mind 001 and Mind 002 are said to “activate key sensory areas of the brain via underfoot stimulation,” helping athletes be more aware and present.

“Nike Mind is a new sensory-footwear concept that helps reawaken the foot, the body and the mind. It represents a new paradigm of performance and how we can potentially make athletes better in the future,” Eric Avar, vice president and creative director of innovation at Nike, said in a press release.

A specific release date for the Fragment Design x Nike Mind 002 sneakers has not been confirmed, but the pair is expected to arrive at retail during spring ’26.