Abdi Nageeye made history at the 2024 New York City Marathon, becoming the first Dutch runner to win the prestigious race. With a remarkable time of 2:07:39, Nageeye held off close rival Evans Chebet in a thrilling finish. His victory is a significant milestone, especially after withdrawing from the marathon at the Paris Games earlier this year due to hip pain.
Central to Nageeye’s success was the Nike Alphafly 3, the latest innovation in Nike‘s marathon shoe line. Hailed for its lightweight design and advanced technology, the shoe provided the support and performance Nageeye needed to excel. The Alphafly 3 features Nike’s Atomknit upper for improved containment and breathability. Notched laces and an integrated knit tongue with lofted padding enhance comfort and ensure a secure fit throughout the race.
An outstanding aspect of the Nike Alphafly 3 is the incorporation of two forefoot Air Zoom units combined with a heel-to-toe ZoomX midsole foam. This setup provides exceptional energy return and cushioning, which is critical for maintaining pace over 26.2 miles. The shoe also features a full-length carbon fiber plate that contributes to a propulsive stride that helps runners push their limits.
The Nike Alphafly 3 has already made waves in the running community. Prior to Nageeye’s triumph, Kelvin Kiptum wore the shoe to set a new men’s marathon world record of 2:00:35 at the 2023 Chicago Marathon. Ruth Chepngetich also broke the women’s world record at the same event, demonstrating the impact of the shoe on elite performance.
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Nike’s commitment to innovation is evident in the development of the Alphafly 3. The design team focused on refining the shoe to meet the needs of both elite and everyday marathoners. By connecting the heel and forefoot with a continuous bottom, the shoe accommodates different stride patterns for a smoother transition regardless of running style. The new Fast Shot outsole enhances traction and grip, essential for a variety of course conditions.
Insights from an extensive testing pool, including a significant number of female athletes, led to improvements in arch comfort and overall foot support. A new molded sockliner complements the lower profile arch, and lofted Flyknit heel pods add cushioning to the heel and Achilles area. The redesigned lacing system integrates with the Atomknit upper for a softer fit across the top of the foot.
The 2024 New York City Marathon attracted more than 50,000 runners from around the world to celebrate endurance and the spirit of competition. Olympic gold medalist Gabby Thomas, representing New Balance, served as the Grand Marshal, adding to the distinguished atmosphere of the event.
Available in men’s and women’s sizes and retailing at $285, the Nike Alphafly 3 debuts in the brand’s iconic “Prototype” colorway.
