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Nike ACG is introducing the Picklejus, a new trail runner designed for the demands of long-distance, big-mountain races. Developed with athletes running the trails around Chamonix and Mont Blanc, the shoe is built around the idea of balancing uphill efficiency with the protection needed for technical descents.
The Picklejus is the first ACG footwear innovation developed through the Nike Sport Research Lab, bringing together biomechanical research, athlete feedback, lab testing, and real-world mountain validation. Over the course of three years, the project went through 10 research studies and 20 prototypes tested by more than 100 athletes.
At the center of the shoe is a new dual-density ZoomX platform, marking Nike’s first co-molded, dual-density supercritical foam system designed specifically for trail running. A softer ZoomX core provides cushioning and impact protection, while a firmer perimeter ring adds stability, support, and durability. Together, the two compounds are designed to help runners stay efficient on climbs without sacrificing protection on the way down.
The upper uses a trail-tuned Flyknit construction with containment cables that adapt to the foot, along with hydrophobic yarns designed to repel water and reduce water weight in wet conditions. A gaiter-inspired cuff helps keep debris out while giving the foot a more secure feel.
Underneath, the Picklejus introduces GOATEK, ACG’s new proprietary traction platform. Designed for everything from wet rock and loose dirt to steep climbs and technical descents, the outsole delivers a 45 percent increase in wet traction and 25 percent greater abrasion resistance compared to Nike’s previous all-terrain outsoles. The traction system was also put through five rounds of long-term wear testing, with athletes logging more than 18,000 miles across mountain terrain.
As for the name, Picklejus takes inspiration from the near-mythical pickle-based remedy associated with endurance runners and muscle cramps. ACG also carried that reference into the design itself, with the shoe’s rocker profile taking on a shape reminiscent of a pickle.
The Nike ACG Picklejus is scheduled to release in late 2027 via Nike.com and select retail locations. Grab a first look below.
Nike ACG Picklejus
Release Date: Late 2027
