Jovani Hernandez On October 12th, 2019, Eliud Kipchoge achieved what so many athletes and spectators claimed was impossible: he ran a sub-two-hour marathon. To commemorate the 35-year-old Kenyan’s phenomenal accomplishment, Nike has prepped a special edition of the Air Zoom Alphafly NEXT%, the final version of the prototype Kipchoge wore to make history.
Technology-wise, the commemorative pair is identical to the unfinished product worn at the INEOS 1:59 Challenge in Vienna. Two Zoom Air pods in the forefoot work in-tandem with ZoomX foam throughout the midsole to deliver increased impact protection and cushioning. The customized carbon fiber Flyplate, which has been the topic of controversy in the running world since the Vaporfly NEXT%, assists with the responsiveness of each stride. Given that the robust sole unit added extra weight to the silhouette, Nike’s Innovation team modified the company’s beloved Flyknit into the lighter, but equally durable AtomKnit.
Akin to Kipchoge’s pair on October 12th of last year, the celebratory version features a predominantly white and black palette, with bottom halves indulging in a slightly-yellowed aesthetic. As this is a special pair, however, the “ZoomX” branded heel is split into red and green layers as a nod to Kenya’s flag; sockliners alternate between both colors, and stamped with either “E:K” (left) or “1:59:40” (right) text. Pull tabs at the heel are also branded with Kipchoge’s initials and record-breaking marathon time, which breaks down to an astonishing sub-4:34 per mile or sub-2:50 per kilometer.
Full release details are still unknown, but this Alphafly NEXT% may arrive to Nike.com on either the anniversary of the INEOS 1:59 Challenge or Kipchoge’s birthday (November 5th). In either case, enjoy a first look at pair here below.
For recovery-day options from the Swoosh, check out the latest from the Air Max 1.
UPDATE (10/05/2020):
The Nike Air Zoom Alphafly NEXT% “Kenya” releases October 11 exclusively for Nike Members in the UK via the NRC App, while a broader drop is expected to arrive in 2021.
WHERE TO BUY
Mens Nike Air Zoom Alphafly NEXT% "Eliud Kipchoge"
US 02/08/2021 Monday
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