In a historic attempt on a sunny Paris evening at Stade Sébastien Charléty, Faith Kipyegon, a three-time Olympic gold medalist, sought to achieve an unprecedented feat for women: running a mile in under four minutes. Despite her previous world record of 4:07.64, she aimed for a significant breakthrough. Supported by her longtime mentor, running icon Eliud Kipchoge, and amidst cheering fans, Kipyegon crossed the finish line in 4:06.42. While she did not break the four-minute barrier, she successfully lowered her own world record, demonstrating that her extensive training, strategizing, and innovative gear from Nike were not in vain.

The attempt, dubbed 'Breaking4' by Nike, was born from a widespread belief, even among some scientists, that a sub-four-minute mile was unattainable for women. Kipyegon, embodying her motto 'dared to try,' challenged this notion. Though she didn't fully prove the skeptics wrong, she confidently stated, 'not yet,' emphasizing that the sub-four-minute mile remains within reach for women. At a post-attempt press conference, she expressed gratitude for the support and reiterated her belief: 'I wanted to prove to the world that everything is possible in life. You dare to try and I hope one day it will come my way.'

This endeavor marks a pivotal moment in running history, reminiscent of Roger Bannister's first sub-four-minute mile in 1954, a time when women were not even permitted to run the distance in the Olympics. Track and field historian Lauren Goss highlights the powerful psychological boost derived from knowing a goal is humanly possible, citing how John Landy quickly surpassed Bannister’s record. Kipyegon's attempt, by simply trying and believing, offers similar inspiration to future female runners. She encourages young girls, including her daughter, Alyn, 'to not limit themselves. They have to dream and make their dreams valid.'

Nike's extensive involvement in the Breaking4 project underscored their commitment to Kipyegon's audacious goal. Over nearly a year, their product experts and researchers, including Amy Jones Vateralus and Janett Nichol, meticulously developed specialized gear. They conducted multiple testing sessions in Kenya, where Kipyegon trains, and at Nike HQ. Their focus was on every minute detail, as aerodynamics become crucial at top speeds. The innovations included the Fly Suit, a lightweight, sleek one-piece designed to reduce drag with strategically placed nodes, and a 3D-printed sports bra made of FlyWeb material, which minimizes moisture retention and stress. For her footwear, designers created the Nike Victory Elite FK spikes, weighing less than 90 grams and featuring custom titanium pins, a carbon fiber plate, and ZoomX foam for optimal energy return and efficiency. Kipyegon's consistent use of the gear during testing confirmed its effectiveness.

Beyond Kipyegon's personal achievement, the Breaking4 event has broader implications for women's running. It has inspired many, as Nike product expert Elliott Heath observed Kipyegon's vulnerability and relentless pursuit. The event also spurred increased media coverage for women's sports, normalized women's competition at all levels, and stimulated scientific research specifically focused on female athletes. While one study had predicted a 3:59.37 time for Kipyegon with pacing strategies, the outcome of the race does not diminish the significance of the attempt. The fight for a sub-four-minute mile for women continues, driven by Kipyegon's inspiring message to 'dream.' Though her specific race kit is not commercially available, Nike offers Breaking4-inspired gear, often in Kipyegon's favorite color, purple, to help others pursue their personal bests.