Nike Plans Sub-Four-Minute Mile Attempt With Kipyegon, New Tech

Faith Kipyegon, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and current world record holder in the mile, is preparing to become the first woman to run a mile in under four minutes in an event dubbed Breaking4, supported by Nike's latest innovations. Nike has developed a bespoke racing shoe, the Victory Elite FK, which is lighter and features advanced foams and a carbon-fiber plate for superior energy return, along with a 3D-printed FlyWeb sports bra and an aerodynamic skinsuit covered with Aeronodes designed to reduce drag. The Breaking4 initiative mirrors Nike's earlier Breaking2 project for the marathon, combining pacing technology, a team of pacemakers, optimized environmental conditions, and advanced gear to push the boundaries of athletic performance. Nike's design philosophy emphasizes the integration of footwear, apparel, and pacing technology to maximize Kipyegon's chances, with extensive athlete feedback guiding the customizations. The event aims not only to challenge historical athletic limits but also to showcase a new era of sports science and apparel innovation. Overall, Breaking4 represents a blend of cutting-edge engineering, athlete collaboration, and strategic race conditions to enable a landmark achievement in women's middle-distance running.