Nike’s ‘Ekiden’ Collection Will Fire Up Your 2025 Running Resolutions

It’s no secret that running has surged in popularity over the past couple of years, with legions of people hitting the pavement in pursuit of a PB or two. However, for the runners of Japan's Ekiden relays, January races are more than just a New Year's resolution – they’re an age-old tradition. Nike celebrate the races every year with the ‘Ekiden’ pack, and this year's will feature prominently in the premiere Hakone race taking place at the start of Jan. For 2025's collection, each silhouette comes emblazoned with flame graphics that first appeared on the 2003 edition to symbolise the fire that burns within the racers and the torches they use for the night legs of the race.

Luckily, you don’t need to be an Ekiden runner to snag a pair, but if you don't know which model is best for your goals, here's a closer look at each Swoosh runner included and what type of running they do best.

For Those Starting Running: The Nike Rival Fly 4

The first shoe in the ‘Ekiden’ pack is the Rival Fly 4, a daily trainer that’s well equipped to tackle those low mileage or park run PBs. It's less techy than its counterparts but still features a plastic Flyplate, soft Cushlon foam and a forefoot Air Zoom unit for added energy return. Coming in at just $100, this one is a budget-friendly banger – perfect for if your resolution is to simply get running.

If You're Taking Training Seriously: Zoom Fly 6

The Zoom Fly 6 was designed as a training shoe to accompany the brand’s super runners and while it might be tempting to race them, the maxed-out foam midsole makes them too tall for the World Athletic rules. That being said, these Flyplate-powered babies are a perfect addition to a training rotation, so if you’re looking to up your mileage in 2025, they’re a great switch-up for tempo runs or race day simulations.

If You Want To Go the Distance: Nike Vaporfly 3

If you’re a racer, the million-dollar question is Vaporfly or Alphafly? We recently broke down the differences between the two styles, but the TLDR version is that the Nike Vaporfly 3 is marginally lighter and seems to perform better over medium distances. Tech-wise, the shoe relies on ZoomX foam and also features a full-length Flyplate for a springy feel. Designed for anything from 10k to marathons, this is the shoe you’re after if you’re looking to start taking on longer races.

To Beat Your PBs: Nike Alphafly 3

Any seasoned runner will be aware of just how good Nike’s Alphafly 3 is, as the stacked-up super shoe landed podium finish after podium finish in 2024. Worn by the Swoosh’s roster of elite marathon runners, the Alphafly 3 is a cheat code for smashing those PBs – so if repeatedly beating your best time is one of your resolutions for this year, the silhouette will see you through it in style. The model comes bolstered with a springy double-dose of Air Zoom units, a full-length carbon fibre plate for max propulsion, and a full-length ZoomX midsole that balances just the right amount of cushioning and energy return.

Perfectly equipped to revolutionise your running throughout the entirety of the year, the Nike Running ‘Ekiden’ collection is on available for purchase right now.