The Nike Zoomx Dragonfly Xc Review & Lab Test of 2026

The Nike ZoomX Dragonfly XC is a specialized cross-country shoe designed for athletes seeking performance on rugged terrain. With a notable 8 mm drop, this shoe is especially suitable for runners who prefer a balanced ride while navigating uneven surfaces.

The incorporation of the energetic ZoomX midsole and Pebax plate in its construction ensures a responsive and efficient energy return, translating to improved acceleration during runs. Additionally, the protective yet breathable upper enhances durability against dirt and mud.

Lab testing indicates that the new grippy pins provide enhanced traction on challenging XC courses, contributing to stability and confidence with each step. While it may not match the ultra-lightweight feel of its track counterpart, the Nike ZoomX Dragonfly XC proves to be an effective choice for cross-country enthusiasts.

Pros

  • Made to dominate XC events
  • Rugged-built upper
  • Bouncy ZoomX midsole
  • Includes two sets of removable pins
  • Fast and stable ride
  • Works great on cinder and dirt tracks
  • Superior, race-ready fit
  • Airy upper
  • Perfect for long distance events

Cons

  • Heavier than the Dragonfly 2
  • Pricey
  • Not ideal for beginners

Key Features

  • Unisex design suitable for both men and women
  • Size conversion: Men's size 7 equals Women's size 8.5
  • Engineered with ZoomX foam for enhanced energy return
  • Breathable mesh upper for comfort and ventilation
  • Durable construction with imported materials

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: ZoomX foam
  • Outer material: Mesh for breathability
  • Inner material: Mesh for added comfort

Nike Zoomx Dragonfly Xc Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Nike ZoomX Dragonfly XC Nike Dragonfly 2 Nike Victory 2 Nike ZoomX Dragonfly
Price $160 $160 $190 $150
Weight lab Weight brand 6.4 oz / 181g 5.1 oz / 145g 4.8 oz / 135g 4.7 oz / 133g
Breathability Breathable Breathable Breathable Breathable
Outsole Spikes - - -
Use - Long Distance Long Distance Long Distance
Surface Dirt - - -
Width / fit Medium Wide Medium Narrow
Toebox width Wide Medium Medium Medium
Drop lab 0.4 mm 0.2 mm 0.6 mm 2.0 mm
Size True to size True to size True to size Slightly small
Midsole softness Soft Balanced Soft Balanced
Tongue padding Average Average Very thin Average
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Flexible
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Flexible Flexible Flexible
Outsole thickness Very thin Average Average Average
Outsole hardness Average - - Very soft
Heel tab None None None None
Heel stack lab 19.6 mm 19.9 mm 19.9 mm 19.8 mm
Forefoot 19.2 mm 19.7 mm 19.3 mm 17.8 mm
Insole thickness Average Thick Thick Average
Midsole width - forefoot Wide Wide Average Wide
Midsole width - heel Average Average Very wide Average
Ranking Top 34% Top 24% Bottom 46% Top 8%
Popularity Top 34% Top 16% Top 24% Bottom 38%