News in Short

• Nike has launched the Alphafly 4 marathon racing shoe.
• It uses new ZoomX LT foam, a carbon-fibre Flyplate and dual Air Zoom units.
• Nike claims 10% more energy return than the previous generation.
• The new foam is up to 17% lighter than standard ZoomX.
• The shoe costs $280, or roughly Rs. 26,800.
• Wider availability begins October 29.

Nike has introduced the Alphafly 4 as its latest marathon racing shoe. The company has rebuilt the shoe around speed, efficiency and weight.

The Alphafly 4 targets both elite and recreational marathon runners. Nike says the design aims to help runners maintain speed as fatigue builds during longer distances.

The new model combines several technologies into what Nike calls a complete racing system. These include a new Atomknit upper, ZoomX LT foam, updated Air Zoom units and a carbon-fibre Flyplate.

New ZoomX LT foam promises higher energy return

The biggest change comes from the new ZoomX LT foam. Nike says it is up to 17% lighter than its standard ZoomX foam.

It also delivers 8% more energy return than the standard material. The foam sits above and below the carbon-fibre Flyplate.

This combination is designed to provide cushioning and bounce while helping create smoother transitions between strides.

Nike claims the complete shoe delivers 10% more energy return than the previous Alphafly. It also describes the Alphafly 4 as the lightest and most responsive Alphafly so far.

Carbon plate and Air Zoom units return

The Alphafly 4 retains the carbon-fibre Flyplate that has become a defining part of the Alphafly range.

Nike says the plate keeps the shoe’s propulsive scoop while balancing stability with forward movement. The surrounding foam is designed to work with the plate for a smoother rolling sensation.

The shoe also gets dual Air Zoom units under the forefoot. These are designed to add responsiveness during each stride.

Meanwhile, the Fast Shot outsole is designed to provide traction and grip.

Atomknit upper adds a more secure fit

Nike has also redesigned the upper. The Alphafly 4 uses an Atomknit construction that aims to provide a more precise fit.

The shoe gets zoned midfoot cables, an integrated heel unit and a moulded sock liner. Together, these elements are designed to improve foot security during fast marathon running.

Nike says the development process included feedback from athletes across multiple Alphafly generations. It also drew on learnings from Project Dreamweaver, women’s trials and testing involving runners with different abilities and running intensities.

Nike Alphafly 4 price and availability

The Nike Alphafly 4 is priced at $280, which is roughly Rs. 26,800 based on the source’s conversion.

It comes in Sea Glass, Laser Crimson, Phantom and Burgundy Ash colour options.

Nike offered an early limited release through its website on September 17. Wider availability is scheduled to begin October 29 through Nike’s website and select retail locations.

However, Nike has not announced India-specific pricing or availability yet.

For marathon runners, the Alphafly 4 therefore brings a combination of lighter foam, a carbon-fibre plate and Air Zoom cushioning. The key question will be how these changes translate into real-world performance over marathon distances.