Just like the Flyknit 1, this is a polarizing shoe. Experts went from “move over Pegasus, there’s a new default in town” and “the most complete shoe in the Nike running lineup” to “it’s not as exotic as Invincible” and “I will not be taking this shoe to 50 miles”. Show
Your browser does not support the video tag. The shoe was mostly praised for being better than its predecessor. Even the update splits the experts in half, going from “just a revision”, “much of the shoe is unchanged” to “a significant update” and “like a breath of fresh air”. Overall, Flyknit 2 did not deserve the title of the favorite or the best road running shoe for easy runs. Who should buy Nike React Infinity Flyknit 2Recommended for runners who are looking for a great foot lockdown (just don’t pull that tongue hard!) and a durable daily trainer. Due to the amount of cushioning, it’s good for heavier and stronger runners. This shoe is made for easy and recovery runs only. Who should NOT buy Nike React Infinity Flyknit 2Definitely look away if you’re:
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 vs. Flyknit 1What got better
What got worse
Exceptional breathabilityThis is THE improvement when compared to the Flyknit 1. This is what the testers have said about upper and breathability:
Almost a see-through upper during the transparency test (light inside). Lockdown doesn’t get better than thisNothing but praise for the foot lockdown. It makes sense given that this iteration comes with 2 main improvements:
Testers have complimented the lockdown saying “heel lock issue finally solved”, “excellent fit and great lockdown”, “works splendidly”, “helping with cornering”, “no heel irritation”. One expert went as far as testing the Flyknit 2 sockless and had no chaffing happening. Caution: Tongue ripsThis has been a known issue so far. While the Flyknit 2 offers an exceptional lockdown, when tying the laces don’t pull the tongue hard. It’s sawn into the shoe loosely and might tear apart. Flyknit 2 offers a soft and bouncy rideGiven that this is a daily trainer, it doesn’t offer the fastest feel through transition, but it does offer a smooth ride, a “feeling of fluidity” and a “soft squish underfoot”. Your browser does not support the video tag. Most importantly, it’s not “the mushy kind”. Made for roadsThe grip on the Flyknit 2 was praised for road running. It definitely did not work on snow and ice. Grass as well, but given it’s a road running shoe, it makes sense. Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 is too heavyIt’s not the heaviest shoe out there, but it is heavy given that it’s made for easy runs only. And when runners tried picking up the pace, they surely felt the weight. For comparison, weights of other daily trainers are given:
If you prefer lighter running shoes, read our guide on lightweight running shoes. Easy day categoryNike Infinity Flyknit 2 is perfect for “longer easier recovery type of runs”. Experts said it’s “an excellent daily trainer” and it might work for longer distances because of its “deep cushioning”. Infinity Run Flyknit 2 is really durableExperts have gone on to predict it will last “way beyond” the 300-500miles. The entire forefoot is covered in rubber. Runners who have tested the shoe for more than 100+ have been satisfied with the durability overall. True to sizeThis. Repeated numerous times so it does run true to size. A few experts found it narrow, but with no issues in that regard. A few experts found it narrow, but with no issues in that regard. Some have mentioned the poking arch sensation - in 1 case it was a deal-breaker, in others only something that “goes away” with running. Not for fast runsThere are daily trainers that can do it all, but the Flyknit 2 ain’t it. That’s why reviewers said there isn’t “an exciting feel” and “any pop”. This shoe won’t be of help for racing or speed work. Other things worth mentioning
Not sure which Nike running shoe is the best for you? Got you covered with our guide on the best Nike running shoes.
Terrain:RoadWeight:Men 302g / Women 244gDrop:Men 7mm / Women 8.8mmArch support:NeutralUpdate:Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3Forefoot height:Men 24mm / Women 23.4mmHeel height:Men 33mm / Women 32.2mm+ more Compare the popularity of another shoe to Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2: Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 video reviewsAuthor Jovana Subic Whether it's a vertical kilometre or an ultra, climbing in the Alps or exploring local mountains, Jovana uses every opportunity to trade walls and concrete for forests and trails. She logs at least 10h/week on trails, with no off-season, and 4x more on research on running and running shoes. With a background in physics and engineering management, she prefers her running spiced with data. |