By joining forces with Greg Lynn, an esteemed LA-based architect, Nike was able to create the Microclimate Chair, a futuristic sports recovery chair that can heat and cool targeted sections of the body in the click of a button. Through the use of 70 Peltier thermoelectric pads, athletes are treated to the necessary temperatures applied to their arms, legs, spine and more. And with thermal analysis for the user, the customizable settings can adhere to the athletes particular needs in the moment. Yes, so far the chair sounds like a larger, more expensive IcyHot pad. The key to this technology is the ability to both heat and cool the necessary areas of the body. Particularly in basketball, players are subjected to short periods of rest followed by intense exertions of energy. The chair can apply heat where the body needs to relax and cold where it needs to recover. The plan for the Microclimate Chair is to purely use it as part of Nike’s “The Nature of Motion” exhibition at Milan Design Week 2016. They have explained in the press and the attached video that this product is in no way expected to be purchased by consumers. The potential uses include training room equipment and even team benches for in-game assistance. The richest athletes may be able to acquire one for personal use in the event that it becomes available in that capacity. And after the year Stephen Curry has been having, it is only a matter of time before players start looking for new and innovative ways to match his skill on the court.
Photo: Greg Lynn/Nike H/T Mashable
