Nike said on the 21st it will launch the Pegasus Plus 2, a new running shoe that can be used for everything from everyday runs to long-distance and pace training.
Pegasus Plus 2 is a "tempo trainer" designed not only for daily running but also for high-speed workouts. Inspired by Nike's road racing shoes, it focuses on combining speed and durability.
The shoe features Nike's running technology "Curved Air Zoom." Curved Air Zoom compresses and expands with each footfall to increase propulsion. It is designed to help maintain balance as the center axis shifts during a run and to enable a natural transition of strides.
In particular, Nike said it combined Curved Air Zoom applied to the forefoot (the front of the foot) with highly responsive ZoomX foam to boost energy return by at least 18% compared with the previous Pegasus Plus. That means it returns more of the force applied when a runner lands, allowing propulsion with less effort.
During development, Nike conducted wear tests with about 30 elite athletes, including marathoners and track and field athletes. The Nike Sport Research Lab analyzed athletes' movements and the sensations they felt while wearing the shoes and reflected the findings in the design. The thickness and pressure of Curved Air Zoom were adjusted for each shoe size.
Fit and stability were also reinforced. The forefoot and toe box were widened for comfortable wear. A midfoot system that secures the middle of the foot supports it stably while running and helps quick movements.
Comfort-focused materials were applied around the ankle. A modern waffle outsole with enhanced flexibility was used for the bottom to increase surface grip and make running lighter and smoother.
Pegasus Plus 2 will go on sale in early next month through Nike's official online store, app, and major Nike stores.