Key Details
- The Nike AlphaFly 4 splits its cushioning into a ZoomX and ZoomX LT combination, replacing the single foam setup on the AlphaFly 3.
- The carbon fiber Flyplate and Air Zoom units carry over from the AlphaFly 3 into the new model.
- Men's and women's Nike AlphaFly 4 pairs use separate style codes, IU4686-002 and IZ9609-002.
The Nike AlphaFly 4 just got its official reveal, arriving as the newest entry in Nike’s marathon racing line. It follows the AlphaFly 3 and continues the super shoe format that Nike kicked off with the VaporFly back in 2017, an approach that pushed adidas, PUMA, HOKA, On and Reebok to build their own carbon plated racers.
Rather than a ground up overhaul, the AlphaFly 4 builds directly on its predecessor’s geometry. Nike is treating this as a refinement of a shoe that already works, the kind of update runners can track on our sneaker release dates calendar. The AlphaFly name remains the flagship carbon plated racer within Nike’s broader Nike running lineup, and it has driven much of the super shoe arms race across the industry.
The Nike AlphaFly 4 Design
On the design side, the rocker shape and Air Zoom units shift slightly forward compared to the AlphaFly 3, and the cutouts surrounding the Air units stretch further along the midsole. The biggest change sits in the foam package, where the AlphaFly 4 splits its cushioning into a ZoomX and ZoomX LT combination instead of a single foam type, a change tied to shaving weight off the shoe. The Atomknit upper material returns from the previous model, built over a Flyplate underfoot that reporting describes as carbon fiber. Nike is positioning the finished shoe as quieter and lighter than the AlphaFly 3 while keeping the same core ride. JustFreshKicks will track official Nike.com listings and share the exact release date once Nike confirms it.
What Makes the Nike AlphaFly 4 Different From the AlphaFly 3
The AlphaFly 4 splits its foam into a ZoomX and ZoomX LT combination instead of one foam type, extends the cutouts around the Air Zoom units and nudges the rocker forward, changes Nike says make the shoe lighter and quieter than its predecessor.
Nike AlphaFly 4 Release Information
Nike has not locked in an exact release date, only confirming a 2026 arrival for the AlphaFly 4 in men’s and women’s sizing under style codes IU4686-002 and IZ9609-002. Retail price is listed at $270 in the official release information, though earlier reporting on the shoe cited $275, so shoppers should expect that number to firm up closer to launch. Once available, the AlphaFly 4 is expected to sell through Nike.com, with SNKRS likely handling both the women’s and men’s launches.
Nike AlphaFly 4
Color: TBD
Style Code: IU4686-002 (men’s) / IZ9609-002 (women’s)
Release Date: 2026
Price: $270 (reported as $275 in earlier coverage)
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Nike AlphaFly 4 release?
Nike has only confirmed a 2026 arrival so far, with no specific date locked in.
How much does the Nike AlphaFly 4 cost?
Official release information lists it at $270, though earlier reporting on the shoe cited $275.
Where can you buy the Nike AlphaFly 4?
It’s expected to release on Nike.com, with SNKRS likely handling the launch for both men’s and women’s pairs.
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Images via Nike
