Nike Flex Control 4
Pros
- Comfortable in-shoe feel
- Feels nimble and agile
- Lighter than average
- Very flexible
- Foot feels planted
- Budget-friendly
- Good grip
- Simple aesthetics
- True to size
Cons
- Durability issues
- Not for serious workouts
Key Features
- Style#: CD0197-013
- Lightweight Mesh: Abrasion-resistant mesh keeps your feet cool and comfortable.
- Midfoot Strap: Provides additional stability, ensuring your foot stays secure while moving.
- Flex Grooves: Deep grooves in the sole allow for natural foot movement, adapting to your stride.
- Textured Rubber Tread: Offers durable traction and support, especially during lateral movements.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Lightweight mesh, synthetic, rubber
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Nike Flex Control 4 is a lightweight training shoe best suited for individuals engaged in jumping rope, offering a notable combination of lightness, breathability, and grip.
Weighing in at 9.77 oz (277g), the Flex Control 4 ranks among the lightest training shoes in our lab database, being 1.7 oz (49g) lighter than the average weight of 326g. This minimal weight gives the sensation of near-barefoot experience while performing jumps.
The shoe's impressive breathability contributes to its barely-there feeling, keeping feet cool during extended use. In our lab tests, smoke passed swiftly through the mesh upper, resulting in a score of 3 out of 5 for breathability.
Additionally, the Flex Control 4 provides reliable traction with its triangular treads on the outsole. During testing, these shoes demonstrated significant grip on both indoor and outdoor surfaces while jumping rope.
A drawback of the Flex Control 4 is its firmer midsole cushioning. Our durometer readings indicate it is 18.5% firmer than the average training shoe, suggesting that those preferring softer cushioning may want to explore different options.
Nike Air Max Alpha Trainer 6
Pros
- Excellent breathability
- Decent durability for the price
- Sufficient cushioning for high-impact exercises
- Stable platform for moderate weightlifting
- Great lateral stability
- Comfortable padded interiors
- Visually striking Air Max unit
Cons
- Heavier than average
- Can feel platformy, disconnected from the floor
- Stiff for lunges and planks
- Outsole could be grippier
Key Features
- Supportive design for enhanced stability during workouts.
- Visible 'performance Air' cushioning in the heel for shock absorption.
- Cushioned midsole and foam collar for added comfort.
- Flex grooves in the forefoot designed for natural movement.
- Rubber sole with optimal tread pattern for traction and durability.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Mesh
- Inner material: Foam
The Nike Air Max Alpha Trainer 6 is designed for individuals seeking significant cushioning and support during gym sessions. Its features allow users to concentrate fully on high-impact exercises and moderate lifts. Priced at $95, it stands out as a notable option for budget-friendly workout footwear.
With a stack height of 36.1/25.0 mm, the AT6 is one of the tallest trainers measured, surpassing many models that do not exceed the 30-mm mark. This height primarily results from the Air Max unit, which provides adequate compression for impact protection without excessive collapse during weightlifting.
The shoe’s structure is reinforced with a larger TPU clip in the heel, enhancing stability through increased stiffness. Lab tests revealed a rigidity rating of 5/5 when assessing twisting and heel counter pinch. Additionally, the spacious base measuring 111.6/91.1 mm ensures reliable footing for one-legged exercises.
The mesh upper promotes comfort by keeping the feet well-ventilated, achieving a breathability score of 5/5 in our assessments. This feature allows heat to dissipate effectively during intense workouts.
On the downside, the shoe weighs a substantial 13.2 oz (373g) and has a stiff build, which may limit agility for quick movements and foot-bending activities. Those seeking greater freedom of movement might consider alternative trainers.