Triple-stack cushioning system with sculpted full-length Air Zoom delivers unprecedented energy return. The Nike Pegasus Premium "Black/Hot Lava" showcases Nike's first sculpted visible full-length Air Zoom unit in a sleek black-and-red execution that balances performance technology with everyday wearability.

Design & Inspiration

The Nike Pegasus Premium debuted January 30, 2025 (globally) and February 6, 2025 (China) as Nike's latest innovation in the legendary Pegasus franchise—a line that has served runners since its inception. The model emerged from years of development starting in 2016 with the Zoom All Out experiment. During the COVID-19 pandemic, innovation team member Kevin Sze engineered a breakthrough test using a glass bottle and cooking pot to sculpt the Air Zoom unit's shape, mimicking the natural profile of the human foot. Nike engineers drew inspiration from the Vaporfly's curved carbon plate, applying that curvature concept to create the sculpted Air Zoom unit. The Nike Sport Research Lab produced 35 different prototypes ranging from sleek to wildly futuristic before narrowing to four finalist silhouettes tested by runners.

The Pegasus Premium earned distinction as "Best New Model of 2025" in Sneaker News' reader-voted bracket, with initial colorways selling out rapidly. This "Black/Hot Lava" colorway delivers classic black-and-red appeal. Dual-layered black engineered mesh features wide-knit patterning at the toebox for optimized airflow, while ripstop panels across toe and lower sidewalls provide durability for high-mileage runners. Shimmering Hot Lava red accents the lateral and medial Swooshes and highlights the visible full-length Air Zoom cushioning. Reflective silver details on laces and tongue enhance low-light visibility. Anthracite tones add depth throughout the construction.

Comfort & Performance

Revolutionary triple-stack midsole system layers ZoomX foam (top), sculpted full-length Air Zoom unit (middle), and ReactX foam (heel base) for unprecedented energy return in the Pegasus franchise. The 42.8mm heel stack height (31mm forefoot, 10mm drop) delivers maximum cushioning with 67.3% energy return. ZoomX foam sits directly underfoot providing responsive cushioning with each stride. The sculpted full-length Air Zoom unit contours to the natural foot profile, acting as a spring with tensile threads that contract and expand during landing and takeoff—creating smooth heel-to-toe transitions. ReactX foam (13% more responsive than previous React technology) provides stable base under the Air Zoom unit. Breathable circular knit and engineered mesh upper keeps feet cool. Nearly full-coverage waffle-pattern rubber outsole ensures durability and reliable traction. 360-degree reflectivity enhances visibility for low-light training.

Release Information & Pricing

The Nike Pegasus Premium "Black/Hot Lava" releases Spring 2026 through Nike.com and select Nike Running retailers. Women's sizing. Retail price is $220 USD, €210, and £190.