Nike Zoom Fly Flyknit: Running shoes with a flying feel

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Price comparison Nike Zoom Fly (Flyknit)

Reseller	Leveringstid	Country	Total price	Read more
	5-7 dage		818 DKK	Til butik
	1-7 dage		859 DKK	Til butik
	2-5 dage		900 DKK	Til butik
	1-2 dage		998 DKK	Til butik
	1-2 dage		1,300 DKK	Til butik
	3-5 dage		1,331 DKK	Til butik

Nike Zoom Fly just got even better

If it wasn’t enough that this annoyingly good running shoe, which is the little brother or sister of the Nike Zoom Vaporfly Elite 4%, was good enough before, it has just gotten a little better.
The review below is based on the first Nike Zoom Fly, and in relation to what it was back then, you should pay attention to what we write here. Because the updates that the Zoom Fly has received are not just any updates, they are groundbreaking.

Nike Zoom Fly – now with Flyknit in the name

The upper is no longer Flymesh as it was in the original version. Now the Nike Zoom, like many of the other top running shoes from Nike, has also got a Flyknit upper. It is this upper that has a fit like a sock, it is super breathable, and it is made of one thread, so the upper on the Nike Zoom Fly Flyknit has no seams at all. This significantly reduces the risk of discomfort.

The midsole has been upgraded, wow

In the first version of the Nike Zoom Fly there was an otherwise excellent Lunarlon midsole on the shoe. It has now been replaced by a REACT midsole. The top model within the midsole at Nike at the time of writing. So it doesn’t get much better than that.

This is what you should notice about the Nike Zoom Fly

Nike is known for not being afraid to think in new ways. They are not afraid to stick their nose out and say “look we have made some of the best there is.” They are ready to take the beating that may come with it if it doesn’t fit. It’s just very rare that it happens. So the fact that they produce something that doesn’t work.
You may have heard of the Nike VaporFly 4%. The shoe that was supposed to get the first runner under 2 hours on the marathon distance. Probably one of the running shoes in recent times that has received the most publicity.

The Nike Zoom Fly is its little brother or sister. And what a one. What you should especially notice about the Zoom Fly from Nike is first and foremost its lightness. With its 248 grams in size 43, it is a real lightweight, and you will notice that as soon as you step into it for the first time. At least it is not the weight that will weigh you down.
You should also notice the light and flexible upper, which is “tightened up” with the Flywire system, which ensures the optimal fit when you lace up the shoes.

Something you will definitely notice when you step on the Nike Zoom Fly, or at least run your first time in it, is the midsole and cushioning that gives so much energy back to you. You “bounce” in an almost indescribable way, and that makes the Nike Zoom Fly incredibly good to run in when we look at softness.

The last thing I want to highlight here is not necessarily a positive thing. But I was very surprised by how much room there is in the forefoot. Not that that is a disadvantage, but I actually had the impression that the shoe would fit completely close to the foot, but it doesn’t.

What have others said about the running shoe?

See below what others have said about the Nike Zoom Fly

Krista Kristiansen, A nice and light running shoe

Carsten Sorensen, Good and spacious

Marianne Bogsted, both short and long trips

Cool facts about the shoe

First run and first feel of the Nike Zoom Fly

If you are a little bit on social media, or otherwise move around the running universe, then it can hardly have passed your nose that Nike has made a running shoe called VaporFly 4%. Probably the most high-profile running shoe in recent times. And on that basis alone, it was with great excitement when I pressed “confirm purchase” and its little brother Vapor Fly started its journey down to my mailbox. Because what could this little brother or little sister running shoe, if you will. Did it have it in it? I admit that I was a little skeptical. It’s a gene I obviously have. When something is hyped up to be SO fantastic, it can almost only disappoint.

But let’s just get this straight. The Nike Zoom Fly doesn’t disappoint. It has a few things I would have done differently, but otherwise it’s probably the most comfortable running shoe I’ve had since I received it. Nike LunarEpic Flyknit.And that says a lot.

You feel it as soon as you see and feel the shoe. What I actually think looks like a heavier running shoe is actually a lightweight. When you get the shoe in your hands, I’ll eat my old hat that you’ll be surprised. And that’s on the positive side.

The first run is always something special. Not so much measured in distance or pace, but for someone like me (said the dog) it’s always super exciting the very first time you go out in a running shoe that is to be tested. What can it do? How does it fit? Are there any noticeable discomforts? All of this that should end in a review and a review that our readers should benefit from. When you step into the shoe for the first time, I can almost guarantee that you will have the same feeling as I did. That the shoe almost “forces” you to move forward, and that’s in a good way.
My first run in the Zoom Fly was probably around 5-6 kilometers. I must honestly admit that I didn’t really notice the length of the run, but I did notice something else. What an experience. From the second I stepped into the Zoom Fly I felt “flying”. It’s a strange feeling, and also a bit hard to explain. But the shoe really has a softness in a very special way. I can probably best describe it as “bounce”. It may sound banal and like something that doesn’t fit. But when Nike writes that this composition of the sole gives energy back to you in the form of this bounce, that’s exactly the feeling you get.

The very first walk was really nice, but it was also there that I discovered, to my great surprise, how much space there is in the shoe. This is not a disadvantage of the shoe in principle – at least not for everyone – but I must admit that in a strange way, through research and feeling, I had imagined a shoe that was a little more snug around my foot. I don’t really know why, but maybe because that’s how it usually is. But you can’t always trust that with Nike. It’s not always as it usually is.

Nike Zoom Fly. More trips, more cool experiences

You will quickly discover if you read on that the Zoom Fly from Nike is a running shoe just to my taste, and I may have a little difficulty hiding my excitement. I am fully aware that of course it depends on what type of runner you are, what kind of foot you have and all that. Running shoes are individual, but that is why this Zoom Fly is still fantastic in my eyes.
That confirmed and still confirms the shoe to me. I still have the shoe on my shelf, and it is used regularly. It is certainly not all running shoes that get that honor. That says a lot about how happy I am with it.

But since the test and the first run, I have been on several short runs and longer runs of +12km. And what I like about the shoe is that it feels the same no matter what kind of run I run. A single or 4 interval training sessions have also crept into the test. Here too, the Nike Zoom Fly can be included. My interval runs or interval training sessions vary between 4½ and 8 kilometres. But it is not so much the length of the runs that is important, but rather the weight of the shoe (and then the fit and behaviour of the shoe). Here, the Nike Zoom Fly in my size weighs just under 250 grams per shoe. And that is a really nice low weight when you look at the great bounce effect and softness that the Nike Zoom Fly gives back to you as a runner..
I mentioned in the above paragraph about the amount of space, especially for the forefoot, in the shoe. After quite a few runs, I can conclude that it is actually not something I notice when I run. Before the run, I can stand and look down at my Nike Zoom Fly, and I can see with the naked eye that there is a lot of space. If I touch the fabric/upper in the forefoot, I can feel that there is excess fabric. But when I run in the shoe, it is not something I give a thought to.

Selecting size in Zoom Fly

Go by the centimeter measurement in the shoe. That’s always my clear message when people ask how to find the correct size. Of course, it requires that you have something to look for. So if you already have a pair of running shoes, look at the centimeter measurement in them, and then buy your next pair based on that. That way you’re sure they’ll fit in length..
In relation to the Nike Zoom Fly, there is nothing extraordinary that you need to be aware of. They fit sizes well with other brands. I usually use, when looking at a wide range, size 43 or 43½ when it comes to running shoes. My Nike Zoom Fly fit perfectly in a size 43 (27.5 centimeters). Sometimes I may have to go up half a centimeter in Nike due to the width of the shoe. But there are very few models where it has been necessary. So as a starting point, go for your regular size if you are not buying by centimeter measurements.
You are also very welcome to use our size guide

Advantages and disadvantages

Analysis Part 1: Who should run in the Nike Zoom Fly

This analysis part 1 is based on what type of runner should run in the Nike Zoom Fly.

Which running style

Nike Zoom Fly is by definition a running shoe for the neutral runner. But I don’t think you can call it a decidedly neutral running shoe. Or of course you can, but what I want to say with that is that I feel exactly the same way I did with the Nike LunarEpic Flyknit. I myself am an over-pronation runner (if I have to put a term on it) But I am also of the belief that you can run in all running shoes. And of course we also need to when we test so many different running shoes a year.
But the Lunar sole does something good. Because if I have tested a pronation running shoe for a long time, and I have to go and test a neutral one, I would be lying if I said that the body does not need some getting used to. But I do not experience the same thing with the Nike Zoom Fly. I could just step into it, run and not feel any discomfort as such in the days after. So to describe it as a pure neutral running shoe, I cannot do that. It covers both parts, at least in my case.

Fit

Overall, the shoe has a really nice fit. but I will also allow myself to divide it into 2. Because where the back of the shoe – from the heel to the forefoot sits relatively tightly around the foot, it is a different story when we get to the forefoot itself. It is a little looser and has a more spacious fit. As I have mentioned before, it is not a definite problem when I run in the shoe, but that is why I think it is an important detail to mention, after all.

• Size: Regular
• Heel: Tight fit
• Midfoot: Tight fit
• Forefoot: Loose fit
• Toe: Spacious
• Arch structure: low
• Shoe shape: Regular

Surfaces and conditions

As with many lighter and more flexible running shoes, which we must admit the Nike Zoom Fly is one of, they are usually somewhat more fragile in their construction. This also applies to this model (unfortunately)
But if you stick to the instructions, and only use it on hard surfaces (asphalt, concrete, etc.) and maybe keep it away from the worst wet weather, then I’m sure you’ll have running shoes for many amazing kilometers in the Nike Zoom Fly.

Price level

Nike Zoom Fly costs in Denmark a suggested retail price of 1,250,- And that price alone is not crazy in itself. But I can already reveal that I have found the shoe plenty of times online for a price below the magical 1,000,- And if you start from that point, you get a fantastic running shoe for a fantastic price. There is nothing more to say about it.

What does the Nike Zoom Fly weigh?

Not much. But you would think it did. As I started writing, I had a suspicion when I saw the shoe that it would be heavier. And when you also know after many trips in the Nike Zoom Fly that it is stable and soft on all kinds of trips, it is even more impressive that in a size 43 it weighs a mere 248 grams. It is nothing short of fantastic.

Care and maintenance of Zoom Fly

Maintain it like a regular running shoe. You can read our guide to washing and maintaining running shoes here.

Drop height in Nike Zoom Fly

Nike Zoom Fly is equipped with a drop of 10mm. This means that it is a relatively high drop in the running shoe. It is a drop height that suits many Danes. This is the drop that is called the “normal” drop. It is a drop in the height +/- 2mm that you will find in many of the popular models from other running brands, including both Asics Kayano and Asics Nimbus.

Drop heights:
Forefoot height: 23mm
Heel height: 33mm

Analysis Part 2: Technical Review of the Nike Zoom Fly

Here we go into all the technical details of the running shoe. Therefore, there may well be one or two technical terms. But we always do our best to keep it as simple as possible.

The outsole

The outsole is in no way profiled, but it shouldn’t be when the Nike Zoom Fly is developed for road running. Both the outsole and midsole benefit from the carbon plate that is placed in the shoe to create propulsion and, not least, stability. You can tell from the outsole that the rubber types and amounts used have always been carefully considered. There is not too much and not too little. You will experience that the Nike Zoom Fly is incredibly stiff in its sole construction. Feels strange, but it is to help you bring energy back with every step, and this is primarily due to the carbon plate that is in the midsole.

Midsole

If we compare the Nike Zoom Fly to other “race running shoes”, it stands out. Because there it is almost more the rule than the exception that the shoe has a low drop and is very minimalist in its midsole. The Zoom Fly from Nike goes in a different direction. There is a midsole that is up to 3cm thick, and the shoe has a drop of 10mm, as you know. Combined with the carbon plate in the midsole, it gives you the feeling of stability and propulsion. Where the VaporFly used the new ZoomX foam, we ordinary mortals have to make do with the LunarLon foam material in the Nike Zoom Fly. But we shouldn’t be too upset about that. It is an excellent and very light material. I am personally a big fan of this midsole from Nike.

Heel

A nice soft and not least stable heel cap keeps your foot in place while running.

Shock absorption

The cushioning in the shoe comes from the thick Lunarlon midsole. And you can rest assured. It gives you plenty of softness and bounce when you run. You almost have this “rocking” feeling, even when you walk in the shoe. A fantastic feeling, and clearly one of the Nike Zoom Fly’s strengths.

Forefoot

A relatively high forefoot when we look at the sole. This is not normal in lightweights. In relation to the fit in the forefoot, we will mention again (and for the last time) that it is relatively spacious in the forefoot. There is at least room for your toes. This may be good for some, but bad for others. I have neither labeled it as an advantage nor a disadvantage. I do not notice it while running in the Nike Zoom Fly

Upper part

A very “sparse” upper to look at. Not so much hocus pocus. It is made very simply and in FlyMesh material. This ensures the runner a very light, flexible and super breathable upper that the feet feel good in. The upper is also equipped with the FlyWire system for the lacing system. The “cables” that make lacing your Nike Zoom Fly much more flexible and individual. These cables run from the laces and down along the shoe, where they also help create stability in the upper itself..
I like the very simple design. It also makes the shoe super cool to look at. I don’t usually mention it, but I’ll do it this time.

Comparisons to Nike Zoom Fly

It’s a little more difficult. Since the running shoe we’re dealing with here is very unique, and the first of its kind at Nike. It’s hard to draw a direct comparison at Nike. But still, I think there are some similarities (mostly in the midsole and fit) with the Nike LunarEpic Flyknit (available in both high and low)
If you want to experience the same softness with other brands, I would like to join the chorus and say that you should take a look at Saucony Kinvara the shoe. It has a bit of that in common, without you making me say that they are directly comparable.

Summary

If you’ve watched the video at the top of this review, or for that matter read the entire review. Then you probably have no doubt for a second that I’m a fan of this running shoe. I really think Nike is going to hit a market or at least produce a shoe in Nike Zoom Fly that hits a wide range, and for a lot of target groups. I really like that.
You can probably already sit and dream about the update to the shoe. Then they can polish the few flaws it has, and then I’m sure we’ll have a real top seller.

If this Nike Zoom Fly makes it to the market as I believe it is destined to, then there are definitely some models at Nike such as Lunarglide orNike Air Max 90 which can no longer feel confident in being the obvious choice. And for that matter, other brands must also stand in the lead. I have the same feeling about the support and stability of the Nike Zoom Fly as I do about, for example, Asics Gel Kayano. It’s thought-provoking.

Nike VaporFly 4% you can’t buy anymore

What this entire review basically boils down to is the Nike VaporFly 4%. The shoe that Nike launched in connection with their so-called Breaking2 project. Which in short was that the Nike VaporFly was the shoe that would for the first time get a runner under 2 hours on the marathon distance. As you know, it didn’t quite succeed, but very close. 2:00:25 was the time.
But as a regular consumer, you can’t go out and buy the Nike Vaporfly at the time of writing. It’s reserved for the elite and is off limits to regular runners. So if you were one of the lucky ones who got a pair in the early days, you should be happy with them. They are unique.
Nike is now throwing most of their focus and energy from this line into the Zoom Fly model.

This also means that this Zoom Fly model from Nike is the first in the series, and therefore there are no real comparisons to be made – except that it should appear as the little brother of the Nike VaporFly.

Price comparison on Nike Zoom Fly

Our automatic update constantly keeps an eye on the best prices on Nike Zoom Fly for you. Below you will find the best prices right now from our running shoe partners.

Reseller	Leveringstid	Country	Total price	Read more
	5-7 dage		818 DKK	Til butik
	1-7 dage		859 DKK	Til butik
	2-5 dage		900 DKK	Til butik
	1-2 dage		998 DKK	Til butik
	1-2 dage		1,300 DKK	Til butik
	3-5 dage		1,331 DKK	Til butik