Nike GP Challenge 1.5 tennis runners

GP Challenge 1.5 tennis shoes

Nike launched the original GP Challenge as an evolution of the GP Turbo in 2023. While this top-quality tennis shoe offered stability and power, the brand wanted to improve its design, so in 2026, the updated Nike GP Challenge 1.5 was released.

The upper of the GP Challenge 1.5 builds on the original by introducing an even more tightly woven mesh that offers greater durability and support. Lightweight no-sew reinforcements remain on the forefoot and heel, a thick rubberised overlay protects the medial forefoot, and the structural midfoot panelling continues to provide strong lockdown and lateral support in conjunction with the hard-wearing medial eyelets. The newly gusseted tongue contributes further to containment, and the spacious toe box area accommodates a wider range of foot types. Lastly, generous padding on both the tongue and heel ensure that comfort lasts throughout long matches.

The Nike GP Challenge 1.5 features a full-length Phylon foam midsole that is comfortable, stable and shock-absorbing. A Zoom Air unit in the forefoot delivers propulsive responsiveness at toe-off, with another softening landings on the heel. The sturdy midfoot plate has also been carried over from the original, helping to stabilise the foot and lock it in place by connecting to the lateral support piece on the upper. To support tennis-specific movements like rolling backwards to perform a powerful serve, the Challenge 1.5 has a rockered heel shape. Meanwhile, its durable outsole has high-abrasion rubber at the front, and the herringbone tread incorporates tight grip lines in areas used for sliding to maximise traction and control. This rubber also wraps upwards to protect high-wear zones like the big toe from damage.

Aesthetically, the GP Challenge 1.5 emulates its stylish predecessor with bold elements such as the wrap-around lateral Swoosh, the prominent structural panelling and the striking linear design lines. Nike has also produced a series of clean, elegant colourways with energetic pops of colour and refined branding on the tongue and heel. Another shared detail is the motivational message on the medial ankle which reads: “Return unto others twice as hard as they serve unto you”.

On its launch in January 2026, the Nike GP Challenge 1.5 was showcased on court by Grand Slam champion Jannik Sinner. In his ongoing role as Nike ambassador, Sinner donned the supportive tennis shoe throughout the season, including when he became both the youngest and fastest male player to complete the remarkable Career Golden Masters and during the defence of his Wimbledon title. Female tennis star Naomi Osaka also continued her association with the GP Challenge line, receiving a special edition 1.5 with earthy brown tones and her stylishly minimalist logo. Alongside this, the brand has released a version with Claybreaker technology, which incorporates more widely spaced herringbone tread lines for stronger clay-court traction and reduced build-up of debris.

The Nike GP Challenge 1.5 represents a powerful upgrade to its supportive predecessor, with the same blend of innovative features alongside enhancements to durability, lockdown and lateral stability that make it an elite choice for any player.