By Sohaib Shams
Nike has launched its latest super shoe, the Apex, aiming to challenge Adidas dominance at the 2026 New York City Marathon this Sunday. The shoe, priced at £319.99 and available from January 2027, is marketed as a superior option to the Alphafly 4.
Technology and Design
The Apex features a carbon-fibre plate common to elite racing shoes, but adds two double-stacked Air Zoom units. The air pockets are designed to enhance propulsion on asphalt during road races.
Athlete Feedback
US marathoner Charles Hicks, with a personal best of 2:04:35, described the shoe as "crazy" and praised its responsiveness, saying it felt like flying. US marathon record holder Connor Mantz, targeting a podium finish in New York, called it "incredible" and confirmed he will race in it. Mantz added that Galen Rupp "really, really liked it" at the 2026 Chicago Marathon.
Competitive Landscape
Adidas gained ground this year with the Adizero Adios Pro EVO 3, which helped Sabastian Sawe become the first sub-two-hour marathoner at the London Marathon. That model retails at £450. Nike led the original super shoe revolution in 2017 with the Vaporfly, but rivals have since caught up, narrowing performance margins and giving runners more options.
