How to Become a Nike Product Tester and Get Free Shoes and Apparel
Discover the step-by-step process of Nike’s Product Testing program. From receiving exclusive products to providing crucial feedback, learn how you can influence Nike’s future releases.
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Are you passionate about sports and fitness? Do you dream of being a part of the innovation that drives one of the world’s leading sportswear brands? If so, Nike Product Testing might just be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
Nike is one of the most popular companies in the world. Nike was founded in 1964 and has been providing athletes with some of the finest athletic gear in the world. And how do they continually create the best gear? They have a product testing program where they have real users like you testing their products.
What is Nike Product Testing?
Nike Product Testing is an initiative by Nike, Inc. that allows enthusiasts like you to be a part of their product development process. It’s called Nike Voice of the Athlete. By signing up, you get the chance to test out the latest Nike products, provide feedback, and play a role in shaping the future of sportswear.
Who Can Apply to Be a Nike Product Tester?
Nike’s product testing program is available for adults and children. They accept all ages although a parent must apply for their children who are under 12 years old.
Eligibility Check
Before diving in, ensure you meet the following criteria:
- US residency.
- Not an NCAA athlete (they’re ineligible).
- Regular training in your chosen sport.
- Typically, sample sizes are whole, so ensure you select a whole size when applying.
Application Windows
Nike categorizes participants into three groups:
- Parents applying for children aged 12 or below.
- Minors between 13 to 17 years.
- Adults aged 18 and above.
- However, not all groups might be open for applications simultaneously.
How to Apply to the Nike Product Testing Panel
Nike will require personal details during the application process, including:
- Name, gender, country/region, birth date, and email.
- Preferred product types and categories for testing.
- Body measurements and apparel sizes (shirt, jacket, pants, shorts, and shoes).
Application Process
- Visit the Nike product testing website.
- Fill in the required details, including country, birth date, and email.
- Specify the product types you’re interested in testing.
- Provide body measurements and apparel sizes.
Await Response
The application review can take between one to four weeks. If successful, Nike will notify you via email or text. Remember, not all applicants get invited. Nike might be targeting specific athlete types or shoe sizes at times.
Pro Tips:
- Many of the testing samples come in whole sizes. So if your shoe size is a half size, we recommend selecting your closest whole size instead. (i.e. 9 instead of 9.5)
- Be detailed about your training schedule. Nike is looking for people who actually train to put their products to hard use. Make sure to tell them how much you run, play sports, walk etc.
How Does a Nike Product Test Work?
1. Invitation to Test: Once you’re approved as a Nike product tester, the company will send you an invitation to participate in a specific test. This invitation will detail the product you’ll be testing and the duration of the test.
2. Receiving the Product: Upon accepting the invitation, Nike will mail you the product. This could be anything from shoes to apparel, depending on your preferences and Nike’s current testing needs.
3. Testing Phase: You’re expected to use the product as you would with any other similar item in your routine. For instance, if you receive a pair of running shoes, you should wear them during your regular runs. This phase typically lasts between one to two months.
4. Keeping Detailed Logs: While testing, it’s crucial to note down your observations. How comfortable is the product? Does it meet your performance expectations? Are there any wear and tear issues? These logs will be invaluable when providing feedback to Nike.
5. Providing Feedback: After the testing period, you’ll need to log into the Nike testing program website and submit your feedback. This will include your observations, any issues you faced, and suggestions for improvement.
6. Returning the Product: Once you’ve submitted your feedback, you’ll need to return the product to Nike for further evaluation. Nike will provide a prepaid shipping label, making the return process hassle-free.
7. Evaluation by Nike: After receiving the returned product, Nike’s team will evaluate it, considering your feedback. This helps them understand how the product fares in real-world conditions and informs any design or manufacturing changes.
8. Future Testing Opportunities: Based on your feedback and adherence to the testing guidelines, Nike might invite you for future product tests. Consistent, detailed, and honest feedback increases your chances of being selected again.
For Nike aficionados, this program is a dream come true. Even though you don’t get to keep the products, the experience of wearing and evaluating Nike’s latest innovations is unparalleled. If you’re also interested in other brands, consider checking out these other shoe product testing panels.
Pros & Cons of the Nike Product Testing Program
Pros:
- Exclusive access to pre-release Nike products.
- Direct influence on future Nike designs.
- Free return shipping for tested products.
Cons:
- No monetary compensation.
- Tested products must be returned.
- Cannot choose specific products for testing.
- Confidentiality is paramount; testers cannot disclose any information about the products they test.
Nike Product Testing FAQs
Is Nike product testing legit?
Absolutely! It’s a genuine program by Nike.
Can I get paid for testing?
No, Nike doesn’t offer monetary compensation.
Why join the Nike Product Testing Program?
It’s a unique opportunity to wear and evaluate Nike’s latest creations, influencing their future designs.
Want more product testing opportunities? Check out my list of Product Testing sites here!
Tips to get picked for product testing
- Always fill out your full profile and be honest. Make sure to keep it updated if anything changes.
- Make sure you complete any surveys or questionnaires ASAP so they know you are responsive and interested.
- During the application process talk about why you’re best suited to test the product. Give them a good reason to pick you!
Michelle Harler is the founder of Guide2Free, a website dedicated to finding and sharing freebies, product testing opportunities, and other ways to save money. With over a decade of experience in the industry, her expertise in finding quality offers makes Guide2Free an invaluable resource for anyone looking to try new products and save money.