With its new Alphafly 3 Premium sneaker series, Nike proves that the future of running can draw inspiration from a nostalgic past – specifically, from an era when mustaches were long, workouts were brutal, and suede was mandatory running gear.
Nike, once a humble Oregon running shoe manufacturer but now a global sports empire, is launching a new model Nike Alphafly 3 Premium “Sting” pays homage to its roots – in a way that will delight both nostalgic sports purists and tech-savvy running geeks. The new model from the series Nike International Running Pack is a designer tribute to one of the most emotional stories in the brand's history: the runner Steve Prefontaine and the legendary model Nike Air Max 90 from 1976.
When history gets a carbon sole
For those who haven't heard of it yet Before Montreal, let's say: it was a prototype running shoe designed for Prefontaine before the Montreal Olympics. Unfortunately, the running legend never made it there – his life ended tragically in a car accident. But he didn't forget Nike. Instead, he introduced the world to Nike Air Max 90, the first running sneaker made of suede and nylon. And that retro charm now lives on – in the high-tech silhouette of the Alphafly 3 Premium.
Retro design, space technology
Alphafly 3 Premium “Sting” does not hide its origin – color combination Starfish/Aloe Verde It intentionally resembles a washed-out pair of running shoes from your dad's closet (or a Brooklyn hipster's style). The slightly smudged Swoosh and artificially aged sole play on the vintage aesthetic, but leave no doubt that this is a product of the future. Check out some of the specs that will convince even the most demanding marathoners:
- Weight: around 218 g (size US 10) – a lightness that almost defies gravity.
- Upper: new Atomknit The material ensures optimal fit and foot breathability.
- Sole: expanded carbon FLYPLATE, first connected ZoomX midsole and outsole for better responsiveness and a softer landing.
- Rubber sole: optimized for lighter weight and multi-directional grip – yes, even on a fast corner at the Ljubljana Half Marathon.
Price? Exclusivity has its price.
With a label $305 (approx. €285) Nike Alphafly 3 Premium It's not exactly a shoe garage sale. But realistically – it's a running shoe that's not just a piece of sports equipment, but also a collector's item, a tribute to a legend and a high-tech achievement at the same time. And what's more: these are exactly the sneakers you put on and say “Yes, now I’m really going for a run… maybe tomorrow.”
So why Alphafly 3 Premium?
Because it combines the best of two worlds: the sentiment of that “time of innocence” when runners fought with stopwatches, not algorithms, and the brutally efficient modern technology that seeks every hundredth of a second for a competitive advantage. If you’re looking for a running shoe that will not only get you across the finish line, but will also look good and tell a story – then this is it.
