Nike InfinityRN 4
Pros
- Soft and stretchy Flyknit upper
- Ideal for heel strikers
- Comfortable for everyday use
- Excellent for easy runs
- Softer midsole
- Durable, long-lasting outsole
- Reduced carbon footprint
Cons
- Average-at-best breathability
- On the heavier side
- Sizes run notably small
- Less energy return than claimed
Key Features
- Energy Return: 13% more energy return compared to previous models.
- Sustainability: Carbon footprint reduced by at least 43% per pair of midsoles.
- Upper Material: Constructed from Nike's best-fitting Flyknit for enhanced comfort.
- Cushioning: Advanced cushioning system designed for a smooth run.
- Versatile Sizing: Offers men-to-women sizing conversion (e.g., 8.5 men = 10 women).
Specifications
- Origin: Imported.
- Sole Material: Rubber for durability and traction.
- Outer Material: Mesh material for breathability.
- Closure Type: Lace-up for a secure fit.
The Nike InfinityRN 4 is designed for runners seeking enhanced comfort and cushioning, making it a suitable choice for daily training. This shoe also offers significant durability, setting it apart in the category of Nike Flyknit running shoes.
The thick and stretchy Flyknit upper provides a snug fit, enhancing overall comfort during runs. The tongue measures 5.6 mm, closely aligning with the average of 5.8 mm. This comfortable upper contributes to enjoyable running experiences day after day.
Comfort continues with the new ReactX midsole, which is both soft and substantial. We measured the heel stack of the InfinityRN 4 at 34.3 mm, which is 1.0 mm above the average. This midsole is remarkably soft, being 48.98% softer than the average, providing an exceptionally cushioned feel.
Durability is another strong point, as confirmed by our lab tests on the upper. The toebox achieved an excellent score of 4 / 5 in our Dremel test. Additionally, the outsole is 13.28% firmer, resulting in only 0.3 mm damage during testing compared to the average of 0.9 mm, indicating that this shoe can outlast many others.
Weighing in at 316g (11.15 oz), the InfinityRN 4 is significantly heavier than the average weight of 265g (9.35 oz). Those concerned about weight may prefer lighter alternatives.
Nike Vaporfly 3
Pros
- Exceptionally breathable upper
- Outstanding ZoomX cushioning
- Superb choice from the mile to the marathon
- Impressively low weight
- Enhanced stability
- Plush, cloud-like foam
- Upgraded outsole for better grip
- Surprisingly good grip
Cons
- Uncomfortably large tongue
- The heel is still too narrow
- Lacks shock absorption in the forefoot
Key Features
- Full-Length Carbon Fiber Flyplate: Provides stiffness and a propulsive feel, enhancing your running efficiency.
- Light Padding on the Tongue: Helps to reduce lace pressure at the top of your foot for added comfort.
- Innovative Waffle Outsole Pattern: Offers multi-surface traction with perforations to save weight, making these shoes ideal for various weather conditions.
- Offset Heel Seam: Reduces friction in the heel area, contributing to a smoother run.
- Wider Toe Area: Ensures a roomier fit, allowing your toes to splay naturally for better balance and support.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Specifically selected Flyknit yarns and engineered fabric.
- Inner Material: Flyknit yarns provide a snug fit.
The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 3 is designed for competitive runners seeking a combination of explosive performance and comfort. It features a breathable upper that provides a secure fit along with traction suitable for both dry and wet surfaces.
The performance of the Vaporfly 3 is attributed to its integration of the ultra-soft ZoomX midsole and the rigid carbon fiber Flyplate. With a thicker stack compared to its predecessor, the carbon plate has been repositioned closer to the ground for an aggressive and propulsive underfoot sensation. Many runners reported the potential to achieve personal bests ranging from the 5k to the marathon distance.
The engineered knit material contributes to a highly breathable upper that securely holds the foot. Its weave pattern features a tighter knit around the forefoot for improved structure, while the midfoot and toe box utilize a looser knit for enhanced breathability. This design allows for comfortable runs that feel refreshingly breezy.
The Vaporfly 3 incorporates a thinner waffle pattern outsole, which reduces weight while increasing the midsole stack height. This modification results in a grippy outsole that performs well on wet pavement and operates more quietly than previous models.
However, we did encounter some instances of heel slippage during testing. While this can be mitigated by utilizing the extra eyelets and opting for thicker socks, runners seeking a secure fit may want to consider alternative options.
Nike Invincible 3
Pros
- Way more stable than previous versions
- Amazing energy return
- Thicker, more durable outsole
- A solid ride that works for more runners
- Breathable
- Great for recovery days and long easy runs
- True to size fit
Cons
- Heel slippage
- Heel clip can be irritating when cornering
- Less cushioning than expected
Key Features
- Maximum Cushioning: The shoe features Nike's plush ZoomX foam for superior underfoot comfort.
- High Support Technology: Strategically placed cushioning offers enhanced stability to accommodate your natural stride.
- Evolved Flyknit Upper: Provides breathability and durability, ensuring a secure fit through all activities.
- Wider Midsole Design: This iteration boasts more stability and taller foam stacks for increased comfort.
- Lace-Up Closure: Ensures a customizable fit for every foot shape.
Specifications
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Not Applicable
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Water Resistance Level: Not Water Resistant
The Nike Invincible 3, part of the Flyknit series, is best suited for runners seeking exceptional shock absorption and comfort during long distances. Its design features a tall stack height combined with a soft cushioning system that enhances overall ride consistency through subtle supportive elements.
With measurements of **35.2/25.6 mm**, the stack height exceeds the average of **34.3/25.7 mm**. Lab tests confirm its superior shock absorption capabilities, achieving a high **131 SA score** and an above-average **68.1% energy return**, contributing to an improved running experience.
An internal strobel lining between the midsole and insole provides stability, reducing wobbling for safer landings. The shoe includes a plush tongue that offers comfort on the foot's upper, featuring an additional **1.6 mm** of cushioning compared to the average while still allowing breathability, which received a **4/5 rating** in our tests.
However, it is important to note that the Nike Invincible 3 is not the most agile option available. Weighing **10.0 oz (284g)**, this shoe performs best during recovery runs rather than high-speed activities.