The original Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit came with one of Nike’s most ambitious running shoe marketing campaigns in history, which was that they made a shoe that scientifically decreases your risk of overuse injuries.
Generally, the shoe was moderately well accepted, but it came with one pretty big flaw, the upper really didn’t lock your foot down.
Although the midsole felt super well designed, a shoe without a proper fit can feel a little useless.
The Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 goes all-in on correcting the fit and lockdown issues with a completely redesigned upper with more security around the ankle and heel areas something that many reviewers had mentioned about the original version.
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 Review
Specification:
- Stack Height: 34 mm (Heel), 26 mm (Forefoot)
- OFFSET: 8mm drop from heel to toe
- Weight: 9.9oz / 280g (US M9) and 8.5oz / 240g (US W8)
- FIT: True to size (Some should go ½ size down)
- Category: Neutral (Inherent Stability)
Let’s dive right into what everyone really wants to know about the upper and fit!
Our good friend Noble gives us an depth analysis in this video.
UPPER - Materials and Lockdown
To put it simply, Nike’s updated upper offers a far better lockdown than it’s original.
The new and improved Flyknit Loft is probably the best flyknit that I have ever seen from Nike. It offers a comfortable fit over the top of the foot, around my ankle, and most importantly, it keeps my heel locked in.
The lacing system is a little clunky during the first couple of ties because it does not lace as smoothly as some other shoes on the market, but this seems to just be a small break-in period, as the problem seems to have gone away.
Nike does run a little narrow, and that stays consistent in this shoe as well, so definitely try to put this shoe on in your local running store to make sure you get the fit right.
The heel-collar is much improved, it is sturdy but lean, and offers a great lockdown without scraping up against my achilles or heel.
What I enjoy most about this upper is that Nike just kept it simple and effective.
It does not go overboard on any one aspect and it does not “overcompensate” for the terrible lockdown of its predecessor, it just corrects the lockdown issue well and moves on without adding too many extra frills.
I think having this new and improved upper also improved the stability feature this shoe offers as well. The improved lockdown around the heel and ankle allow for the TPU heel clip to enhance my heel-to-toe transition much smoother than in the original.
Pros
Cons
MIDSOLE - Reliable Cushion and Responsiveness
Neutral runners will be just fine wearing it. Those who excessively overpronate will want to seek a more “supportive” shoe.
Whether you liked or disliked the midsole and ride of the original React Infinity Run Flyknit, then that opinion probably won’t change for the second iteration, because it is the exact same.
For those that have not tried it, let's give you the short and the long of it.
In short, I LOVE this midsole design.
The long, this is probably the best use of the Nike React foam that I have seen in any of Nike’s shoes. It is a soft and springy cushioning compound built to deliver a high level of shock absorption without sacrificing energy return..and it delivers!
Furthermore, there is a Rocker Geometry component built into the shoe as well to offer a smooth transition throughout your stride.
This is similar to the rocker we see in popular HOKA ONE ONE shoes like the Clifton 7 or Bondi 7. It is super solid at providing a nice roll-off from heel-to-toe off without feeling excessive or overbearing on your stride.
I mentioned this part a little earlier, but the Injected TPU Heel Clip does help create a more inherently stable platform for your foot. It is by no means a stability shoe, but it does offer a nice hint of guidance if you need it.
Pros
Cons
OUTSOLE - Durable with Solid Grip
Nike kept the outsole design completely the same as well.
The strategically placed rubber that they use is definitely durable and has solid traction for road running.
Honestly though, I think they could strip back the outsole rubber a little bit and that could help bring the weight down. It’s not like that a deal-breaker, because of course, that is a trade-off, but I think Nike could experiment with that in the future.Durability Prediction - 500-700 Miles (805-1125km)
I know that I was just ragging on the outsole being excessive, but it does help in the shoe’s durability!
Between that resilient react midsole foam and the rubber outsole the React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 can probably get you around 500-700 quality miles depending on your running form.
This is a pretty big range, I only leave it so open because I have seen react foam be very resilient for some runners, but also give out a little early for others. Either way, you are going to enjoy the miles that you put on this one!
Best Uses - Daily Training, Easy Runs, “Steasy” Runs, Long Runs
The React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 will work very well as your “do-it-all” trainer from easy jogs to probably getting down to around tempo effort.
With the improved lockdown, I can see myself running many medium effort workouts in this shoe. It feels very possible to run harder long runs or tempo runs in this shoe effectively.
The versatility is a nice selling point for this daily trainer, but does that make it worth the money?
PRICE -
The short answer is that is a premium daily trainer. It is super comfortable and versatile, but there isn’t enough separating it from shoes like the Brooks Ghost 13, or the Hoka Clifton 7 to justify spending so much money on this one.
That being said, if you do end up grabbing a pair you will most definitely enjoy the ride!Conclusion - A Great Update to a Solid Shoe
The Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 is well-positioned as a responsible and versatile daily trainer.
You can wear it for a lot of different things, they are pretty stylish, and you will get plenty of wear out of them.
The updated fit in the upper is a welcomed improvement and the midsole is still soft and bouncy.
Should You Get The Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2?
Most people will enjoy this shoe if they get a proper fitting pair. If you have the desire to spoil yourself and spend a little extra money on your daily trainers, then definitely consider this shoe! If you prefer to keep things on the budget side, then you can find plenty of great options for cheaper.
Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API