Nike is gearing up to launch its Nike Running 2025 Ekiden collection. This collection is reportedly going to be a reference to Japan's long-distance relay runners. This collection contains four specially designed racing shoes and lifestyle apparel inspired by Japan's Ekiden culture.
The shoes are scheduled to get an initial release in Japan on November 22, 2024. Afterward, on December 4, 2024, the items will be available for global purchase via Nike's website, Nike SNKRS, and other selected retailers.
The products of this collection feature an energetic flame motif and Japanese Kanji symbols, which are a homage to the Japanese Ekiden racing tradition that has captivated fans for generations, the official Nike press release says.
Nike running 2025 Ekiden collection sports four footwear models: the Alphafly 3, Rival Fly 4, Vaporfly 3, and Zoom Fly 6.
Nike Running 2025 Ekiden: The collection explored
Ekiden refers to a type of long-distance relay race originating in Japan. The race is known for its rigor and the collective team effort it demands. Each team carries its own sash, which is also known as tasuki. It gets passed from one team member to the next.
Ekiden races are highly esteemed in Japanese culture. Since the 1990s, Nike has been collaborating with Japanese Ekiden runners. This partnership has resulted in the introduction of multiple shoe lines. The Nike Running 2025 Ekiden bundle is the latest homage to Japan’s long-distance running tradition.
Below is what Nike had to say about its paying homage to the celebrated Japanese culture:
"Nike is announcing its new 2025 Ekiden Collection, which celebrates the unmatched passion and devotion of Japan’s long-distance relay runners, whose grit, teamwork and speed inspire all athletes to turn their dreams into reality."
One of the collection's notable features is a flame graphic, which is believed to be borrowed from the 2002 Air Streak Spectrum Plus. Those shoes were also designed in collaboration with Ekiden athletes. The shoes are also sported with Japanese Kanji characters on the upper.
The Alphafly 3 model in the Nike Ekiden collection is designed with an upper that features a lightweight mesh. The toebox has a reinforced design. The midsole is sported with responsive cushioning. The Alphafly 3 is adorned with flame graphics and Japanese Kanji characters.
The Rival Fly 4 has a softer midsole than Alphafly 3 and it is the second shoe in the upcoming collection. The upper is made with breathable materials. Vaporfly 3, the third shoe in the Nike Ekiden collection features an upper constructed with fine mesh.
Vaporfly 3's sole sports Nike’s responsive foam and a carbon-fiber plate. Below is what Nike's press release had to mention about the shoes:
"Giving you race-day speed to conquer any distance, the Nike Vaporfly 3 is made for the chasers, the racers, the elevated pacers who can’t turn down the thrill of the pursuit. Nike reworked the leader of the super shoe pack and tuned the engine underneath to help you chase personal bests from 10Ks to marathons."
The fourth shoe in the Nike Running 2025 Ekiden edition is Zoom Fly 6. Its upper features a combination of synthetic and mesh materials. The flame design is featured on the sides, which establishes the shoes as a part of the Nike running 2025 Ekiden collection.
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Below is what Nike had to mention about the Zoom Fly 6:
"The Nike Zoom Fly 6 is a best-in-class training and racing hybrid, delivering Nike’s top cushioning technology and plated innovation in a silhouette that offers supreme comfort."
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