In what seems like a lifetime ago, I was the Director of Equipment for the Athletic Department of THEE Villanova University. I remember the first Nike Pegasus I wore was the 25, circa 2008. Men's and Women's Track & Field / Men's and Women's Cross Country were sports that I worked with directly, and there was a sense of excitement around "The Pegs" each season. As I placed orders over the next 10 years, I was truly astounded at how many of our runners swore by and loved the Pegasus.
I first RAN in a pair when the 34s released. You know, Breaking 2 and all of that?!?!? It was at this moment I instantly got it. I went through a phase where I completely disregarded my absolute NEED to be in stability trainers like "I can wear anything". That began with The Peg. And when I was informed by a friend at The Swoosh (Nike) that Pegs tend to release each June.....yearly countdowns began.
Fast forward to June 5, 2024. Global Running Day. I was fortunate to run in the Nike Pegasus 41 on the day this shoe was released. They looked good – too good – I didn't even want to run in them. But I laced up and hit the roads. The upper delivers lightweight, breathable security and has plenty of toe box room – perfect for my wide, flat feet. I felt fast, and even as a stability shoe wearer, I felt support with each responsive step. Responsive and cushioned I should say, as the combination of ReactX foam midsole with forefoot and heel Air Zoom units is a really nice ride.
I think I'm on my 3rd or 4th colorway now (yes, the shoes only released 3ish months ago). I've been utilizing the Peg 41 for speed work and shorter, quicker runs.....and matching shoe colors with race fits. I was having a conversation earlier this morning over an average latte, but DELICIOUS omelet, about my current shoe rotation. There are definitely some edits as the seasons change, but I keep a pair of Pegs in the rotation at all times!
Postscript: The Nike Pegasus 41 has an even faster cousin – The Nike Pegasus Plus. BOTH shoes are in my late Summer, not–yet Autumn rotation. Join Philadelphia Runner and Nike for our Manayunk group run tomorrow to try a pair of the Peg Plus (aka Pegasus Turbo) and test for yourself! Full deets: Thursday, September 19. 630pm – 730pm. PR Manayunk, 4358 Main Street, Philadelphia, PA 19127.
The Tech Talk:
DON’T WASTE YOUR ENERGY. Responsive cushioning in the Nike Pegasus 41 provides an energized ride for everyday road running. Experience lighter–weight energy return with dual Air Zoom units and a ReactX foam midsole. Plus, improved engineered mesh on the upper decreases weight and increases breathability. .
Product Features:
Upgraded breathable engineered mesh upper for increased comfort.
Plush collar tongue and sockliner for a secure and comfortable fit.
Reflective toe and heel highlights.
ReactX foam midsole surrounds dual (forefoot and heel) Air Zoom units for an energized ride.
All–new ReactX foam midsole is 13% more responsive than previous React technology.
Increased the stack heights in both the forefoot and heel for added cushioning and protection.
Wider forefoot and heel provide a stable, springy platform and a responsive ride.
Signature waffle–inspired rubber outsole provided durable traction on the road, with grooves for added flexibility.
Specs, and other details:
MR–10 Last – Nike's best, most consistent fit (same as Pegasus 40).
Heel–To–Toe Drop – 10mm
Cushioning – Responsive
Support – Neutral
Crafted for performance and planet, ReactX foam is engineered to reduce its carbon footprint by at least 43% in a pair of midsoles due to reduced manufacturing process energy compared to prior React foam.
This product is made with at least 20% recycled content by weight.
The Finish Line:
The Nike Pegasus 41 is here, NOW, in a lot of beautiful colorways. Continue your online visit to pick up a pair to add to YOUR rotation!