Experience the Potential of the "Nike Pegasus 41" as Explained by Their Long-Time Companion, Suguru Osako

Following the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, Suguru Osako has already secured his spot in the men's marathon for this summer's Paris Olympics. The shoes that are indispensable for his daily race training are none other than the Nike "Pegasus" series.

Since its debut in 1983, the "Pegasus" has continuously evolved with feedback from numerous runners, earning trust and remaining a beloved best-seller for 41 years. Osako himself has been training in the "Pegasus" for over 10 years.

The latest "Nike Pegasus 41" has undergone some notable developments. We spoke with Suguru Osako to learn more.
 
The previous model, the "Nike Pegasus 40," featured a midsole made with the highly durable and responsive Nike React Foam. The "Nike Pegasus 41" utilizes the same Nike React Foam for its midsole.
 
Nike React Foam is also used in the "Nike Infinity Run 4." This material was developed over more than five years at the NSRL (Nike Sports Research Lab). Compared to conventional Nike React Foam, it offers a 13% improvement in energy return while reducing carbon emissions from midsole production by 43%.

The Air Zoom units remain in two places—the forefoot and heel—just like in the "Nike Pegasus 40."

A Complete Model Change

Suguru Osako felt a significant improvement with the refreshed sole unit of the "Nike Pegasus 41" compared to its predecessor.
 
"This update feels like a full model change in automobile terms. The biggest improvement I noticed is in the cushioning. The previous Pegasus had a slight stiffness—even in a good way—but the Pegasus 41 now has enhanced cushioning while retaining its responsiveness."
 
In a prior interview, Osako mentioned that during his jogs overseas, he often runs on softer surfaces like gravel or uneven terrain, using the "Pegasus." When running on harder surfaces in Tokyo, he sometimes switches to the "Invincible." With the improved cushioning of the "Pegasus 41," he appears to be using them more frequently.
 
"Previously, the Pegasus felt slightly hard when used on roads. However, the Pegasus 41 is comfortable on both roads and trails. The improved cushioning is especially noticeable when running long distances on roads."

Common Points with "Nike Alphafly 3"?

Additionally, the ride sensation of the "Nike Alphafly 3" is said to share similarities with the "Pegasus 41."
 
"Of course, in terms of rebound and propulsion, the Alphafly 3 is superior, but the sensation of a soft sink followed by a big rebound feels similar. It feels like the knowledge gained from the development of the Alphafly 3 has been utilized, and it seems as if the Alphafly 3 is an extension of the Pegasus 41."
 
Suguru Osako has been using the "Pegasus" for training for over 10 years. What attracts him to the "Pegasus"?
 
"I think it's the balance. When you create a radar chart with features of the shoes, the Pegasus forms a neat hexagon or pentagon. Some shoes specifically focus on certain functions, which might divide opinions or limit their usage scenes. However, the Pegasus gives a versatile impression, and I feel that not many people dislike the Pegasus."