The South African National Rugby Team, the Springboks, will be the first rugby team in the world to debut the new Nike Mind Mule, a neuroscience-based footwear innovation designed to activate sensory awareness and support mental focus before and after competition. The team will incorporate the Mind Mule into their pre-game preparation ahead of the highly anticipated match against Ireland on Saturday, 22 November.
The Nike Mind Mule is part of Nike Mind, an innovation platform developed by the Nike Sport Research Lab and its Mind Science Department, a team dedicated to understanding the mind-body connection and how mental readiness influences athlete performance. Previously worn by the England National Football Team, the Mind Mule is quickly being adopted by elite athletes across sports as part of their preparation rituals.
A NEW APPROACH TO ATHLETE READINESS
For decades, Nike has led in performance innovation rooted in biomechanics and physiology. With Nike Mind, the brand expands into a new frontier: the role of the brain, sensory activation, and cognition in sport.
Nike Mind technology is designed from the sensory system outward to help athletes feel grounded, present, and mentally prepared during crucial pre- and post-game moments.
At the core of the technology is a system of 22 independent foam nodes placed underfoot. These nodes interact with the foot’s mechanoreceptors, sensory receptors responsible for pressure and movement, sending rich sensory information back to the brain. This enhanced sensation is engineered to support calm focus, presence, and readiness.
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
Mind 001 Mule
A slip-on silhouette built for ease and pre-game rituals.
- 22-node platform calibrated for sensory activation
- Soft foam chassis for comfort
- Water-resistant base with rubber traction
- Precision fit for effortless wear
- Price: $90 USD | Sizes: W6–M15
Mind 002 Sneaker
A lace-up design offering a deeper sensory connection.
- Breathable upper with tactile detailing
- Laces anchor the foot closer to the sensory platform
- Soft foams at ankle and tongue for elevated comfort
Mind 001 launches in January with Mind 002 early February 2026.
