Nike GP Challenge 1 tennis runners

GP Challenge 1 tennis shoes

Nike GP tennis shoes are known for offering reliable support across multiple surfaces. In late 2023, the GP Challenge 1 built upon the success of its predecessor, the GP Turbo, with innovative new features designed to take players to the next level.

The Nike GP Challenge 1 incorporates a high-quality mesh upper crafted around an accommodating last, with no-sew reinforcements across the toe and eyestay. The medial forefoot is protected by a large, rubberised panel that covers the big-toe area, and the lateral midfoot is supported by a sturdy, arch-like structure that improves side-to-side stability and prevents ankle rolling. This panelling also forms three of the lateral eyelets, which work with the webbed medial eyelets to ensure outstanding midfoot lockdown, while generous padding further enhances containment and comfort at the heel. Lastly, the plush mesh tongue reduces lace pressure and ventilates the instep.

Supporting the GP Challenge 1 is a high-tech sole unit with dual Zoom Air units: one in the forefoot for a propulsive toe-off and another providing impact protection at the heel. These combine with the full-length Phylon foam midsole to deliver firm comfort and responsiveness as its wide platform presents a stable base for the foot. The heel rubber curves upwards to support smooth transitions and the rocking motion of the serve, while the stiff, springy midfoot shank keeps the player stable by balancing weight transfer throughout a range of dynamic movements.

The outsole of the Nike GP Challenge 1 features a reliable herringbone tread pattern with thin, sharp grooves on the lateral side and thicker, shallower ones on the medial half. Together, these produce outstanding grip while also allowing the player to undertake controlled slides. High-abrasion rubber has been applied across the forefoot for added durability, with extra material wrapping up over high-wear parts of the midsole to provide targeted support, protection and balance during tactical foot drags.

In 2026, Nike launched an updated version of the shoe known as the GP Challenge 1.5. While similar, it features extended no-sew panelling for better durability around the lateral toe, a gusseted tongue for increased lockdown and a more spacious forefoot. Alongside the original hard-court version, the brand released one with Nike Claybreaker technology, which incorporates a more widely spaced herringbone tread pattern that offers strong clay-court traction and reduces build-up of debris.

With its distinctive midfoot structure, tall midsole and wrap-around lateral Swoosh, the GP Challenge 1 has a bold aesthetic, but it also incorporates fine details like a set of stylish lettering on the lateral ankle – “Return unto others twice as hard as they serve unto you”. Its success has been bolstered by the support of Grand-Slam champions Jannik Sinner, who wore an elegant black-and-white edition during his debut Wimbledon victory in 2025, and Naomi Osaka, who has collaborated on multiple special edition colourways.

The Nike GP Challenge 1 blends innovative features with reliable midsole technologies to support and stabilise the player, facilitating confident movement, powerful serving and accurate shotmaking.