Nike Apex Pushes Marathon Racing Into a New Era of Speed

Nike is pushing beyond the traditional super shoe with Apex, a new marathon racer built to sit at the very top of its performance running lineup. Rather than simply refining the Alphafly formula, Nike has developed a new racing system around an unprecedented amount of Air Zoom cushioning.

The defining feature sits directly beneath the forefoot. Apex uses four Air Zoom units arranged into two double-stacked pairs, giving the shoe more forefoot Air than any Nike running model before it. The platform compresses under load before returning energy as the runner moves forward.

According to Nike, the result delivers up to 40% more energy return than the Alphafly 3 in a men’s size 10, while the complete Apex weighs more than 10% less. The configuration also stays within current racing regulations with a 40-millimeter platform.

Unlike many modern marathon shoes, Apex uses zero-drop geometry, placing both the heel and forefoot at the same 40mm stack height. A wider outsole, rocker geometry, and redesigned carbon fiber Flyplate work together to create stability and encourage forward movement throughout the marathon.

Nike has also introduced ZoomX LT, a new race-specific foam described as softer, lighter, and more responsive than standard ZoomX. Above the Air units sits an inverse-wave carbon fiber Flyplate designed to direct loading into the stacked Air system while supporting propulsion and stability.

Weight reduction continues across the rest of the shoe. A breathable Flyknit X upper uses a fitted knit collar and removes the traditional sock liner for a minimal, glove-like fit. Underfoot, GOATEK and Fast Shot materials place traction and durability only where Nike determined runners need them most.

The system was developed through athlete feedback and research at the Nike Sport Research Lab. Elite runners including Eliud Kipchoge, Brigid Kosgei, and Jacob Kiplimo have been pictured with Apex, with Kiplimo describing Nike prototypes as part of some of the most important races of his recent career.

Apex will sit above the Alphafly 4 and Swooshfly within Nike’s new race-day system. While those models target different racing experiences, Apex is positioned as Nike’s pinnacle marathon shoe for runners pursuing maximum efficiency and speed.

The Nike Apex launches in January 2027 through Nike and select retailers. Pricing and specific launch colorways have yet to be announced.