Nike

Vaporfly 3

$260.00Race Shoe

The Nike Vaporfly 3 is a highly praised race shoe, often lauded as the best Vaporfly yet. Its updated Flyknit upper offers superior comfort, breathability, and a roomier, secure fit. The ZoomX midsole provides a responsive, propulsive, yet accommodating ride for all race distances, from 5K to marathon. Durability is notably improved for a super shoe, with the outsole and foam holding up well over significant mileage. It features enhanced forefoot stability and better wet traction. While some find it less aggressive or slightly softer than previous versions, it's widely recommended for its comfort, performance, and versatility, making it a top choice for race day.

Highlights

Roomier, breathable Flyknit upper with effective water drainage and no hot spots
Firmer, responsive ride with smooth transitions and efficient forward propulsion
Significantly improved outsole traction, particularly in wet conditions
Enhanced forefoot stability from a medially shifted platform and prominent sidewalls
Reduced weight compared to the previous model while maintaining protective cushioning

Considerations

Exposed ZoomX foam and thinner outsole rubber may show wear faster than traditional trainers
Limited inherent stability in the heel and midfoot, making it less suitable for runners needing support
Wider toe box may cause upper bunching for runners with narrow feet
Softer, more relaxed upper and ride may feel less locked-in or aggressive compared to the Vaporfly 2
Extended medial tongue may cause minor irritation for some wearers