Nike 2026 product testing: how to get free products before launch

Ever wondered how people get early access to Nike shoes and performance gear before they hit the stores?
Nike’s official product testing program — often referred to as the Nike Product Testing Program or Voice of the Athlete — gives everyday athletes the chance to try unreleased footwear, clothing, and accessories for free.

Participants test new designs in real training sessions and share feedback that helps shape future Nike releases. It’s basically a backstage pass to Innovation Land.

How Does the Program Work?

The whole process is simpler than you think:

1. Create your Nike tester profile
Sign up, fill in your sports routine, shoe size, body measurements, and training habits. The more complete, the better.

2. Wait for selection
Nike reviews profiles and picks testers based on activity level, sport type, region, and product needs.

3. Receive your test kit
If chosen, Nike ships the prototype directly to you — no fees, no shipping costs.

4. Test it in real life
Train, run, jump, lift — use the gear exactly as you normally would for 2–8 weeks.

5. Send feedback
Share your thoughts about comfort, durability, performance, fit, fabric tech, and more.

6. Return or keep the product
Some prototypes must be returned; some categories may be kept. It depends on the test guidelines.

Who Can Participate?

You don’t need to be a pro athlete or influencer — Nike looks for real, everyday people who:

• Train regularly in any sport

• Are between 13–60 (minors need parental consent)

• Are interested in performance gear and innovation

• Can provide honest, useful feedback

Note: Rules can vary by region. NCAA athletes should check eligibility guidelines.

What Products Can You Test?

Nike sends a wide range of unreleased products, including:

• Footwear: running shoes, training shoes, basketball, lifestyle pairs

• Performance Clothing: tees, shorts, jackets, hoodies, base layers

• Accessories: backpacks, socks, gear, protective items

• Advanced Tech: new cushioning systems, smart fabrics, adaptive designs

If Nike is working on it, you might get the chance to try it.

Benefits of Joining

Here’s why people love the program:

✅ Early access to prototypes
✅ Chance to influence Nike’s future designs
✅ No costs involved — ever
✅ Occasional invites to exclusive testing waves
❌ Must return some products after testing
❌ No guarantee of being selected each time

Tips to Increase Your Chances

Want to stand out from the crowd? Here’s what actually helps:

• Complete your athletic profile with real training details

• Update sizes, weight, height, and performance metrics regularly

• Apply consistently — even if you haven’t been selected yet

• Provide clear, honest feedback if chosen

• Stay active in your sport (Nike prioritizes consistent athletes)

Persistence pays off — many testers report being selected after multiple rounds.

How to Know If You’ve Been Selected

Nike notifies testers through:

• Email (sometimes in the Promotions/Spam tab)

• Your Nike Tester Dashboard

• Shipping confirmation in your Nike account

If chosen, your test product will appear as an order with $0 cost.

Joining the Nike Product Testing Program is one of the coolest ways to try unreleased gear, influence future designs, and experience the innovation side of the brand — completely free.

If you love Nike, train consistently, and enjoy testing new things, this program is a perfect fit.
Create your profile, stay active, and you may be testing the next big Nike release sooner than you imagine.

GO TO NIKE WEBSITE