Nike Officially Introduces the Apex Marathon Racing Shoe

Featuring double-stacked Air Zoom units and ZoomX LT foam, the new silhouette delivers 40% more energy return.

Summary

Nike has unveiled the Apex marathon shoe built for peak race-day efficiency and speed

The silhouette introduces double-stacked Air Zoom units in the forefoot paired with ZoomX LT foam and a 40mm zero-drop platform

The shoe officially launches globally in January 2027 via Nike and select stockists

Nike has officially introduced the Nike Apex, marking its pinnacle expression of marathon race-day innovation. Built for competitive runners chasing every possible second, the lightweight racing system is engineered to deliver unprecedented energy return and forward propulsion.

The Apex stands as Nike’s first racing shoe to incorporate four Air Zoom units configured in two double-stacked pairs under the forefoot—the most Air ever applied to a Swoosh running model. Designed to compress, store, and return energy, the system delivers up to 40% more energy return than the Alphafly 3 while weighing over 10% less. The shoe sits on a balanced 40-millimeter zero-drop platform to provide consistent support, cushioning, and responsiveness from heel to toe.

Surrounding the Air Zoom setup is a bed of new ZoomX LT midsole foam, designed to be softer, lighter, and more responsive than traditional ZoomX. A raised, inverse-wave carbon fiber Flyplate directs loading directly into the stacked Air units, working alongside a wider outsole and rocker geometry to maintain pace stability. Up top, a breathable Flyknit X upper with a fitted knit collar and sockliner-free construction creates a minimal, glove-like fit, finished with GOATEK and Fast Shot traction underfoot.

The Nike Apex launches in January 2027 via Nike and select retail locations.