How to Become a Nike Product Tester: Get Inside the “Voice of the Athlete” Program

Have you ever seen an athlete wearing Nike gear with a design you’ve never seen before?

Do you have ideas that could improve your favorite running shoes or workout apparel? What if you could share that feedback directly with Nike’s design teams?

The answer lies in Nike’s “Voice of the Athlete” program, an exclusive initiative that puts unreleased product prototypes into the hands of real-world athletes and sports enthusiasts.

This program gives selected participants a unique opportunity to test products still in development, provide critical feedback, and help shape the next generation of athletic gear.

What is the Nike “Voice of the Athlete” Program?

The “Voice of the Athlete” program is a confidential product testing initiative run by Nike. It allows selected individuals to try out upcoming footwear, apparel, and accessories long before they are available to the public. More than a marketing campaign, this program is a core part of Nike’s research and development process.

Nike’s goal isn’t just to generate hype; it’s to gather authentic, detailed feedback from active individuals who use the gear in real-world scenarios. This feedback is crucial for refining technology, enhancing comfort, and maximizing performance before a product launch.

Some prototypes tested through the program never even make it to the market, making the experience of being a tester even more exclusive and exciting.

How the Program Works: A Step-by-Step Guide

The process is structured to ensure Nike gets the detailed feedback they need to innovate.

✅ Step 1: Submit Your Online Application

The journey begins at the official Nike Product Testing website, home of the Voice of the Athlete program. Applicants must fill out a detailed profile, including information about age, shoe size, body measurements, primary sports, and activity levels. This data allows Nike to match you with the right product tests.

✅ Step 2: Profile Review and Selection

Once your application is submitted, Nike’s team reviews your profile. This process can take several weeks or even months, as selection depends on the specific products currently in the testing phase. If you’re not selected right away, don’t be discouraged! Your profile remains active, and you may be chosen for future tests. Persistence is key.

✅ Step 3: Receive Your Test Kit

If selected, you will be notified and sent a test kit containing the prototype product. The kit includes detailed instructions on the testing protocol, duration, and how to log your feedback on its performance, fit, and durability.

✅ Step 4: The Testing Period

Testing periods typically last between four to eight weeks. During this time, you are expected to use the product regularly under various conditions. For example, a trail running shoe should be tested on different terrains and in diverse weather to provide comprehensive feedback.

✅ Step 5: Provide Feedback and Return the Product

At the end of the test period, you will complete an online feedback form. Honesty and detail are critical here. Afterward, you will return the product to Nike using a prepaid shipping label. This allows Nike’s innovation teams to conduct further analysis on the wear and tear of the product.

Who Is Eligible to Participate?

Nike is looking for a wide range of active people to provide diverse feedback.

✅ Age Requirements

Adults (18+): The primary group of testers.

• Teens (13-17): Can apply and participate with the consent of a parent or guardian.
• Children (12 and under): May also join with the approval of a parent or legal guardian who manages the application.

✅ Key Restrictions

• NCAA Athletes: Are generally ineligible to participate due to regulations regarding external benefits.
• Confidentiality Agreement: All participants must sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). Sharing information or images of the prototype products publicly is strictly forbidden.

✅ The Ideal Tester Profile Nike seeks individuals who are passionate and active in sports, whether it’s running, basketball, soccer, tennis, or general fitness training. However, you do not need to be a professional athlete. Everyday athletes and dedicated sports enthusiasts provide incredibly valuable insights.

✅ Global Reach The “Voice of the Athlete” program is available in multiple countries across North America, Europe, and Asia. You can check the availability in your region by visiting the official program website.

What Types of Products Can You Test?

Nike tests a wide array of products across its entire range, including:

✅ Performance Footwear

• Running Shoes: Featuring next-gen cushioning systems and support technologies.
• Basketball Sneakers: Focused on stability, impact absorption, and on-court traction.
• Soccer Cleats: Designed for precision, control, and performance on the pitch.
• Lifestyle & Skateboarding Shoes: Centered on durability, comfort, and board feel.

✅ Apparel and Accessories

• Technical Apparel: T-shirts, shorts, and jackets made with advanced, breathable fabrics.
• Compression Gear: Items designed to aid muscle recovery and circulation.
• Training Accessories: Including high-performance socks, gloves, and other gear.

✅ Specialized Prototypes Occasionally, testers may receive highly advanced prototypes, such as limited-edition footwear or gear featuring brand-new, unannounced technologies.

Why You Should Join the Program

✅ Get Exclusive Access Participants get a first look at Nike’s most innovative products months or even years before they are released in stores.

✅ Contribute to Innovation Your detailed feedback directly helps Nike create the next generation of high-performance products that will be used by millions of athletes worldwide.

✅ Become Part of a Community By joining, you become a valued part of a global community that is passionate about performance, design, and the future of sports.

⬇️ Don’t wait! Apply today and start your journey to influence the next big Nike breakthrough! ⬇️