Nike announces its new Ekiden 2025 collection, which celebrates the unmatched passion and devotion of Japan’s long-distance relay runners, whose tenacity, teamwork and speed inspire all athletes to realize their dreams.

Nike worked with Japanese Ekiden runners since the 1990s to develop innovations that enhance their performance during grueling relay races.

Each style is adorned with a flame graphic pattern that symbolizes the fire that burns in all runners and the torches they use during the night sections of ekiden competitions.

The flame graphic was borrowed from the world record-breaking Air Streak Spectrum Plus: a striking 2002 style from the Streak series, which was designed based on feedback from Japanese runners. Japanese kanji at the top of each style in the Ekiden collection complement the retro design and inspire all runners to reach their highest potential.

“The Ekiden is a race where what you wear also attracts attention, so running in distinctive sneakers motivates you to push your limits. This year’s flame design gets me excited for the race.”