Nike launches Alphafly 4 for marathon runners

Nike is introducing Alphafly 4, a marathon racing shoe rebuilt as a complete system to help more runners carry speed over distance. | Photo Credit: Special arrangement Nike has launched its lightest, most responsive Alhpafly yet that the company claims will help marathon runners chase their personal best.The shoe delivers 10% more energy return than its predecessor and its 5% lighter. It features a new Atomknit upper, ZoomX LT foam, updated Air Zoom units and a carbon-fibre Flyplate.The latest iteration of Nike’s Alphafly is said to balance thrust, cushioning and comfort, offering stability for runners to pace well and stay in the right form.“With Alphafly 4, we spent years listening to athletes, studying how fatigue impacts performance and running mechanics, refining every element of the system to help runners maintain efficiency when it matters most,” Emily Farina, Senior Principal, Running Footwear, Nike Sport Research Lab, said in a statement. “Our goal was simple: create a shoe that helps athletes feel more confident and capable deep into the race. That’s what Alphafly 4 was built to do.” Alphafly 4 is available for an early, limited release from September 17, followed by a broader availability from October 29 at Nike.com and select retail locations. Published - September 18, 2026 04:56 pm IST