Say what you want about the sneaker scene’s recent lack of innovation, but the same can’t be said for shoes in the running category. Over the past couple of months alone, two models have helped power athletes’ record-breaking runs, with both adidas and Nike claiming the titles.
Just last month, Tigist Assefa smashed the women’s marathon record wearing a pair of adidas Adios Pro Evo 1 running shoes. Completing the course with a time of 2:11:53, the Ethiopian runner was over two minutes faster than the previous record holder. However, those into their sneakers were shocked to hear that the Adios Pro Evo 1 could only cope with one marathon run, essentially rendering them a £400 single-use sneaker.
Over the weekend, Nike responded with its own win, as 23-year-old Kelvin Kiptum set a new record in the men’s race with a time of 2 hours and 30 seconds. Earlier this year, the athlete reportedly broke his contract with Chinese brand Qiaodin in order to wear the Swoosh, later setting the record in the upcoming Nike Alphafly 3 . On the same day, Sifan Hassan also cruised to victory in the same shoe, setting a Chicago course record and running the second-fastest marathon running time in women’s history.
A bit more durable than its German rival, the Alphafly 3 is the latest instalment in Nike’s NEXT% range. It comes crafted from super lightweight Atomknit fabric and features carbon fibre plating and a specially sculpted sole unit. It’s since been announced that the sneaker will drop in January 2024, so if your New Year’s resolution is to get setting those PBs, you’ll be off to a flying start.
Up next, Nike shares a look at its upcoming CPFM collab .
