Nike is introducing a new race-day footwear system built around three models: Apex, Alphafly 4 and Swooshfly. Each shoe addresses a different type of runner and racing goal, giving athletes a choice based on experience, distance and performance needs.
SNEAKERS
Apex targets marathon runners chasing every possible second. Alphafly 4 combines responsiveness, comfort, stability and efficiency over long distances. Swooshfly serves runners preparing for a first race or pursuing a new goal, with an emphasis on cushioning, stability and an accessible introduction to carbon-plated racing footwear.
Nike developed the three models through athlete feedback, testing and research at the Nike Sport Research Lab. Air Zoom technology, advanced foams and engineered plates form the technical foundation of the lineup.
Nike Apex Introduces a New Air Zoom Setup
Nike Apex carries the most advanced technology in the new lineup. The marathon racing shoe features four Air Zoom units arranged in two stacked pairs under the forefoot, giving it the greatest amount of Air Nike has used in the forefoot of a running shoe.
According to Nike, Apex provides up to 40 percent greater energy return than Alphafly 3 in a men’s size 10 while weighing more than 10 percent less.
The shoe uses a 40-millimeter stack height at both the heel and forefoot, creating zero-drop geometry. Nike combines that platform with ZoomX LT, a new race-specific foam that weighs less, feels softer and provides greater energy return than ZoomX.
A redesigned carbon fiber Flyplate features an inverse-wave shape engineered to direct loading into the double-stacked Air Zoom units. The plate also supports forward drive and stability. Nike pairs it with a wider outsole and rocker geometry designed for marathon distances.
GOATEK and Fast Shot rubber cover selected areas of the outsole to provide traction and durability while reducing unnecessary weight. The upper uses lightweight Flyknit X, accompanied by a fitted knit collar and construction that removes the conventional sock liner.
Nike athlete Jacob Kiplimo tested Nike prototypes during major races, including his half marathon record in Lisbon and the fastest marathon of his career in London. He described the technology as something that allows runners to focus on the race instead of their footwear.
Nike Apex launches in January 2027.
Swooshfly Targets Runners Entering Race-Day Footwear
Swooshfly takes a different approach. Nike created the model for runners preparing for a first race or working toward a new goal, combining features associated with super shoes with greater cushioning, stability and an accommodating fit.
The project began with feedback from runners in China who wanted race-day energy return alongside comfort and confidence. Nike used those requirements to develop an entirely new platform.
Swooshfly introduces Nike SkyX supercritical foam, paired with a tailored carbon fiber Flyplate. The foam provides responsive cushioning and stability, while the plate supports transitions and adds spring through a range of race paces.
Nike says the combination generates up to 16 percent greater energy return than Vaporfly 4 in a men’s size 10.
The shoe uses a new accommodating last, a midfoot band, race-specific laces and a structured heel counter. A supercritical foam sock liner, padded collar and plush tongue provide additional cushioning around the foot.
A translucent woven Vaporweave material forms the upper, with extra protection around the toe area. Underfoot, a dual-rubber outsole uses GOATEK at the forefoot to provide traction and durability for training and competition.
Nike developed Swooshfly in roughly half the time normally required for a new model, using smaller teams, rapid testing and close collaboration with athletes and manufacturing partners.
Three Different Approaches to Race Day
Nike designed the lineup so each shoe serves a specific runner. Apex targets maximum marathon performance. Alphafly 4 focuses on speed, comfort, stability and efficiency over distance. Swooshfly introduces race-day technology to runners seeking a more accommodating setup.
Alphafly 4 launches in October 2026. Apex follows in January 2027. Swooshfly launches in China in February 2027 before reaching global markets in spring 2027 through nike.com and select retailers.
