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When I got my hands on the Nike Alphafly 3, I was excited, although I'm not sure why since I've never set a personal record in any of the Alphaflys. To be honest, I've always felt they were a bit too heavy and chunky for me.
This year, I had high hopes that things would be different and that these would be my PR shoes. As we know, the first version launched with huge success with the Breaking 2 project. However, the second version was just okay, and no one is paying $250+ for a shoe that is just okay. So, what changed for the Nike Alphafly 3?
More material was added to the midfoot to increase stability. It also helps reduce some irritation points in the arch. The weight was reduced by 15%, making it the lightest Alphafly yet. The Next% has been dropped from the name, as most people didn't include it anyway.
Nike Alphafly 3 Quick Facts
The Nike Alphafly 3 features an engineered mesh upper that is low-volume and lightweight, aiming for a snug fit around the midfoot and heel while offering a bit more room in the forefoot. This design provides enough space for toe splay without feeling overly restrictive.
Initially, the fit was slightly tight, and the shoe felt almost impossible to get on, but it adapted comfortably after a few runs. I noticed influencers struggling in their videos to get the shoe on, so I guess I didn't feel too bad.
Typically, I wear between women’s size 10 and 11 wide, and the Alphafly 3 felt true to size, although some might find it a tad short depending on their foot shape. I recommend sizing up half a size for the best fit. I found the 11 fit and felt the best.
The magic of the Alphafly 3 lies in its midsole, where Nike’s responsive ZoomX foam pairs with two sizable forefoot Air Zoom units to deliver a firm yet bouncy ride. This combination propels runners forward efficiently, enhancing performance for both racing and fast training.
I was pleased to find the shoe lighter than its predecessors. It doesn’t feel as heavy and cumbersome as the "brick" I dreaded. This year’s model felt less bulky and more conducive to fast running, particularly over marathon distances.
The Alphafly is made for racing and workouts, and that's all I've used it for. It doesn't feel as heavy as previous versions, and it does feel faster. I found in previous versions when my legs got tired, it would feel like I'm moving mountains to pick up the pace. With this version, it feels a lot lighter, and I'm not using as much effort to pick up my feet.
The outsole utilizes high-traction rubber designed for reliable grip on road surfaces. Optimized for road racing, it's less suited for trails or uneven terrains. In adverse weather conditions, such as rain, the grip holds up well, though traction lessens on sandy or rugged trails, accelerating wear. So, don't use them on trails. Like the rest of the Alphaflys, it doesn't handle sharp turns well, and I've found you're likely to slide around there.
Typically, you can expect the Alphafly to last 50-100 miles of racing, which is about what other carbon-plated shoes last.
The updates to the Nike Alphafly 3 have made it, in my opinion, the best version yet. Its design tweaks and lighter construction have broadened its appeal, making it a more suitable racing option for a lot of runners.
Who Should Buy the Nike Alphafly 3
Runners seeking a high-performance racing shoe for half-marathons and marathons will find the Alphafly 3 a good choice. Its improvements have reduced the clunkiness significantly compared to previous versions, offering a lighter and more fun experience.
Who Should Not Buy the Nike Alphafly 3
The Alphafly 3 might not be ideal for runners who require a shoe that accommodates wider feet or those in search of a versatile daily trainer. It also does feel heavier than many racing options, so many may still find the Alphafly too heavy for their liking.
I was paid to write an honest shoe review of my choice.
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