The Nike Pegasus 41 will touch down this summer with a new foam.
ReactX cushioning, first introduced last summer, is making its first appearance for the top-selling running franchise in Nike’s history. The propiertary material forms a full-length midsole with Zoom Air units at the forefoot and heel and, compared to its X-less predecessor, features a 13 percent gain in energy return and a 43 percent drop in its carbon footprint.
Unlike the shift from the Pegasus 39 to Pegasus 40, the arrival of the Pegasus 41 also brings with it a significant change in shape for the sole unit. More rounded lines immediately stick out, including an opaque bubble where Air Zoom is applied at the forefoot.
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A change in appearance for the Pegasus 41’s upper isn’t as dramatic, as it features the same midfoot system with an internal band wrapping underfoot for support, but the engineered mesh upper is now lighter and more breathable. Nike says it sought out to make the Pegasus, which is known for its reliable fit, more comfortable.
Looking further ahead, Nike also announced Thursday the Pegasus Premium, a higher-end running sneaker that won’t release until 2025. In the more immediate future, the franchise will also include the Pegasus Easy-On, Pegasus Trail 5, Pegasus Trail Gore-Tex and Pegasus Winter Gore-Tex.
The Pegasus reveals, as well the introduction new basketball sneakers and soccer cleats, come after the company has been widely criticized for a lag an innovation and lull in generating excitement. As well Nike’s retro models have performed commercially, there’s a sense that this has come at the cost of anything new. A recent Piper Sandler survey of teens found that Nike remains the demographic’s top choice but by a shrinking margin.
The Nike Pegasus 41 will release in June through Nike’s website and select third-party retailers. Pricing has not yet been announced.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior Trending News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
