
Lightweight, propulsive, cushioned, stable, fast.
Pushing beyond the limits you thought existed, the Nike Alphafly 3 isn't just a running shoe—it's a revolution on your feet. Fine-tuned for marathon speed, this is the lightest Alphafly ever, weighing in at approximately 218 grams for a men's size 10. It's designed to help you leave your old personal records far behind.
Three groundbreaking technologies work in harmony to power your run. A double dose of Air Zoom units in the forefoot teams up with ZoomX foam to store and return energy, propelling you forward with every stride. The full-length carbon fiber plate adds a propulsive sensation, ensuring smooth transitions and confident turns. Meanwhile, the fully connected ZoomX foam midsole offers an ultralight, cushioned feel that keeps you fresh from mile one to 26.2.
What's new in this iteration? A slightly wider carbon fiber plate enhances stability, and the updated ZoomX foam midsole ensures smoother transitions. The all-new Atomknit upper improves multidirectional containment and breathability, so your feet stay secure without feeling confined.
Additional thoughtful touches include notched laces for a secure yet soft fit and an integrated knit tongue with lofted padding to alleviate lace pressure. With an 8mm heel-to-toe drop, every detail is engineered for peak performance.
If you're serious about pushing your marathon times and embracing cutting-edge technology to get there, the Alphafly 3 is more than a shoe—it's a partner in redefining what's possible on the road.
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the Nike Alphafly 3:
Pros:
- Energy Return: The combination of two forefoot Air Zoom units and ZoomX foam provides exceptional energy return, propelling you forward with every step.
- Lightweight: At approximately 218g (7.6oz) for a men’s US 10, it’s the lightest Alphafly yet, reducing fatigue over long distances.
- Propulsion: The full-length carbon fiber plate gives a responsive, propulsive feel, helping you maintain a smooth and efficient stride, especially during transitions.
- Comfort for Long Distances: The fully connected ZoomX foam midsole creates a cushioned and ultralight ride, keeping your feet comfortable from start to finish in marathons.
- Stability and Breathability: The wider carbon fiber plate improves stability, while the Atomknit upper enhances breathability and provides multidirectional containment for a secure fit.
- Additional Features: Thoughtful design elements like notched laces for a soft yet secure fit and an integrated knit tongue with lofted padding to reduce lace pressure add to the overall comfort.
Cons:
- Price: At $285, it’s a significant investment, which might be a drawback for casual runners or those on a budget.
- Narrow Use Case: Designed specifically for marathon runners, it may be overkill for everyday training or shorter races, where its specialized features aren’t as necessary.
- Durability Concerns: The lightweight and highly cushioned design, while great for performance, may wear down faster than more robust running shoes, especially in non-race conditions.
- Fit Adjustments: The Atomknit upper, while breathable and supportive, may require some break-in time or adjustments for runners with wider feet, as it focuses heavily on containment.
$285