6 Best Nike Flyknit Running Shoes in 2024

Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen on
6 Best Nike Flyknit Running Shoes in 2024
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Introduced in 2012, the Nike Flyknit running shoes revolutionized the world of running. Its state-of-the-art integral knitting technique was something that was never seen before. It was truly innovative creating a one-piece breathable upper, engineered for precision fit and a second-skin feel for runners.

From blistering 5Ks to marathons, or simply for daily jogs or lifestyle use, you can’t go wrong with a pair of Nike Flyknit running shoes. We present you with more than a dozen amazing Flyknit models to choose from. To help you save time in choosing the right one, we’ve tested, reviewed, and evaluated all of them.

We selected different remarkable pairs that will surely match your needs. Go ahead and check them out!

How we test running shoes

To select our top picks for different categories, we analyzed all data from mechanical tests inside our independent shoe lab, reviewed the extensive feedback from our team of wear-testers, as well as used our own knowledge and experience in running and running shoes.

For this particular list, we’ve highlighted the best of the best based on the following process:

  • We buy all the Nike Flyknit running shoes with our own funds to avoid any brand loyalty and bias.
  • We perform a battery of tests in the lab, which involves cutting the shoes into pieces. We weigh and measure over 30 parameters of each model, checking and re-checking the breathability and durability of the Flyknit upper, the softness of the midsole, and many more.
  • We clock in at least 30-40 miles on average for each pair in various training and racing environments.

Best Nike Flyknit running shoes overall

What makes it the best?

With more comfort and cushioning than anyone could want, the Nike InfinityRN 4 also provides the durability needed for an awesome daily trainer. After running countless miles and undergoing numerous lab tests, we crown the Nike InfinityRN 4 as the best Nike Flyknit running shoes.

The Flyknit upper on the InfinityRN 4 is thick and stretchy—very stretchy that it creates a snug fit for our feet providing great comfort. Its tongue, which is 5.6 mm thick, is right in the range of the 5.8 mm average. We loved this comfy upper which gave us pleasant runs day in and day out. 

Comfort also extends to the midsole unit with the new ReactX midsole which is both soft and massive. We measured the heel stack on the InfinityRN4 to be 34.3 mm, which is 1.0 mm more than the average. The midsole is out-of-this-world soft—48.98% softer than the average. Running on marshmallows is an understatement. 

The upper also scored well on our lab's durability tests. We tested the toebox against the Dremel and it came out with an excellent score of  4 / 5. The outsole is 13.28% firmer resulting in only a 0.3 mm damage in our Dremel test (0.9 mm is the average). This shoe can definitely outlast other shoes. 

At 316g (11.15 oz) it is notably heavier than the average of 265g (9.35oz). If weight is a concern, lighter shoes are available.

Pros

  • All-new ReactX plush midsole
  • Soft and stretchy Flyknit upper
  • Ideal for heel strikers
  • Generously cushioned
  • Excellent for easy runs
  • Feels like running on clouds
  • Durable, long-lasting outsole
  • Reduced carbon footprint

Cons

  • Average-at-best breathability
  • On the heavier side
  • Sizes run notably small
Full review of Nike InfinityRN 4

Best Nike Flyknit running shoes for racing

Nike Vaporfly 3
87
Good!

What makes it the best?

The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 3 provides an explosive but plush ride, and has a comfortable and breathable upper, while also bringing traction on dry and wet surfaces. These are more than enough attributes to hail the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 3 the best Nike Flyknit running shoes for races.

All the magic of the Vaporfly 3 comes from the union of the uber-soft ZoomX midsole and the incredibly stiff carbon fiber Flyplate. It has a thicker stack than its previous version while the carbon plate is moved closer to the ground to provide a more aggressive and propulsive underfoot sensation. True enough, we felt like we could break quite a few PBs with these shoes—from the 5k to the marathon.

The engineered knit material creates a very breathable upper while also holding the foot well. Its weave pattern also has a closer knit along the perimeter of the forefoot for structure and a looser knit around the toe box and midfoot for added breathability. We're not kidding when we say that we had some pretty breeze runs in these shoes.

The Vaporfly 3’s waffle pattern outsole is thinner than previous versions which brings only less weight and increased midsole stack but also a very grippy outsole. It grips well on wet pavement and is quieter and less ‘slappy’ than the outgoing Vaporfly.

Unfortunately, we experienced some heel slippage. While this can be countered by using the extra eyelets and thicker socks, runners who prefer non-slippage can look elsewehere. 

Pros

  • Exceptionally breathable upper
  • Outstanding ZoomX cushioning
  • Superb choice from the mile to the marathon
  • Impressively low weight
  • Enhanced stability
  • Plush, cloud-like foam
  • Upgraded outsole for better grip

Cons

  • Uncomfortably large tongue
  • The heel is still too narrow
Full review of Nike Vaporfly 3

Best Nike Flyknit running shoes for marathon/ultra

Nike Alphafly 2
86
Good!

What makes it the best?

We’re mindblown how Air Zoom Alphafly Next% 2 blends speed and comfort into perfect harmony. What’s even more amazing is it excels further at long distances with its boundless energy and protective foam — claiming the top spot for marathons/ultras among Nike’s Flyknit line.

This racer brings the game to the next level, taking us fast and far like it’s a piece of cake. It releases strong, consistent energy with a rocker structure for lively toe-offs. The carbon plate acts like a springboard, launching us forward. Our flex test validates its resilience: 128.5% stiffer than the average running shoe.

The ZoomX foam is truly a leg-saver with above-average 38.6 / 33.9 mm heel and forefoot stack heights. It provides much-needed support for endurance runs. While our durometer shows the foam is 20.4% softer than average, we don’t sink into it. It maintains a good balance between comfort and protection.

The upper is equally praiseworthy too, with its light Atomknit 2.0 that seamlessly conforms to the shape of our feet. It doesn’t feel restrictive, especially in the forefoot, avoiding black toenails. It’s incredibly well-ventilated, scoring the highest rating on our breathability test, preventing blisters and hotspots.

Unfortunately, all these qualities come at an expensive price of $275. 

Pros

  • Great for personal bests
  • Propulsive ride
  • Very comfortable
  • Versatile for short and long runs
  • Amazing lockdown
  • Airy upper
  • More stable than v1
  • Long-lasting
  • Less annoying noise

Cons

  • Expensive for sure
  • Still slightly unstable on corners
  • Hard to slip on
  • Heavier and less magical than v1
Full review of Nike Alphafly 2

Best Nike Flyknit running shoes for speed training

Nike Pegasus Turbo
81
Decent!

What makes it the best?

True to its name, the Nike Pegasus Turbo is the best speed trainer out of all Nike Flyknit running shoes. With an excellent lockdown, a smooth ride, and respectable grip and durability—this shoe felt fast on our feet and our lab results only confirmed this. 

It really is a daily trainer that's really such a joy to ride in. Its flyknit with flywire construction provides the Pegasus Turbo with a great midfoot lockdown. Plus, its padded collar and heel counter provide great lockdown on the rear. The 1.8 mm thin fully gusseted tongue (which is 4 mm below the average) also helps in creating a snug fit that makes our feet feel secure on our runs.

In the lab, we measured the heel stack to be 32 mm. While it neighbors the average heel stack height of 33.2 mm, it is ample enough to provide good cushioning. The 10 mm drop really promotes good leg turnover, which was evident when we picked up the pace.

At only 2.76% less dense than the average road running shoe outsoles, the Pegasus Turbo Next Nature’s outsole manages to balance traction and durability. Even after a series of daily runs, there was no premature wear on the outsole.

Scoring a 3/5 on our breathability test, these shoes are not recommended for running in hot weather conditions.

Pros

  • Excellent grip
  • Smooth ride
  • Great lockdown
  • Stable
  • Padded and supportive heel
  • Durable outsole
  • Aesthetically beautiful
  • 50% recycled materials

Cons

  • Lacks responsiveness
  • Stiff and warm upper
  • Laces are just too long
  • Not the fast and nimble shoe that we expected
Full review of Nike Pegasus Turbo

Nike Flyknit running shoes with the best cushioning

Nike Invincible 3
81
Decent!

What makes it the best?

Among Nike’s Flyknit series, ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 3 gave us the best cushioning in our runs with its tall stack and soft cushion combination. It provides comfort and breathability for long miles and offers a consistent ride through its subtle supportive elements.

With a caliper on hand, its stack stands 35.2/25.6 mm, sitting right above the 33.4/24.5 mm average. Our feet are spoiled with supreme comfort as our durometer confirms the foam is 39.8% softer than average. Its midsole is an excellent shock absorber and provides a good amount of energy return.

We cut the shoe open and found a strobel lining between the midsole and the insole. This layer provides a stabilizing effect that reduces wobbles and ensures safe and sound landings.

A plush tongue hugs the top of our foot for comfort. Upon checking with our caliper, it’s an extra 1.6 mm of cushion vs. the average. Despite this, we could still feel the breeze flow in and out of the upper. Our breathability test confirms it’s more ventilated than the average.

Unfortunately, we’re disappointed with the outsole’s traction, or lack thereof. It didn't grip well on wet roads upon testing. We recommend avoiding rainy days with this pair.

Pros

  • Way more stable than previous versions
  • Tall stack of impact-absorbing cushioning
  • Good energy return
  • Comfort for the entire foot
  • Thicker, more durable outsole
  • A solid ride that works for more runners
  • Breathable
  • Great for recovery days and long easy runs

Cons

  • Poor grip on wet roads
  • Heel slippage
  • Heel clip can be irritating when cornering
Full review of Nike Invincible 3

Best minimalist Nike Flyknit running shoes

Nike Free RN NN
81
Decent!

What makes it the best?

“Barely there” is an understatement for the Free RN NN. It’s so lightweight and adaptive that we kept wondering if we had shoes on! It’s our ultimate minimalist shoe among the Nike Flyknit range we lab-tested and nails its name as running in this pair was such a freeing experience.

Free RN NN has an incredibly natural feeling due to its extremely light build. Our scales show a mere 6.9 oz (197g), 25.9% less than average. Adding to its airiness is its mindblowing flexibility, which left us feeling fresh as we barely fought any resistance. With a mere 6.1N of force, it’s 79.0% less rigid than average and is one of the most flexible shoes we’ve ever seen lab-tested. This translates to an extremely comfortable and forgiving ride that barely feels like having shoes on. 

The sock-like upper wraps around our feet snugly, feels comfortable to slip into, and is easy to secure. This added to the barefoot feel as it pretty much melted away from our minds as we started running.

We measured a lower-than-average stack that gives plenty of ground feel. Despite being firm and thin, we still had a good amount of rebound and cushioning. 

Unfortunately, what we found lacking is airflow. It scored a below-average 2/5 on our breathability test, making it less appealing for the summer.

Pros

  • Feather-light on the foot
  • Extremely flexible and comfortable
  • Good impact dampening
  • Very accommodating toebox
  • Secure sock-like fit
  • Works well in the winter
  • Keeps the feet warm
  • High-quality and durable upper
  • Can handle gym day and some other activities
  • Sleek design
  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • Too toasty for warm weather
  • Not ideal for speedwork or long distances
  • Too broad for those with narrow feet
Full review of Nike Free RN NN
Author
Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob is a fan of short distances with a 5K PR at 15:58 minutes. Based on 35 million race results, he's among the fastest 0.2% runners. Jens Jakob previously owned a running store, when he was also a competitive runner. His work is regularly featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, BBC and the likes as well as peer-reviewed journals. Finally, he has been a guest on +30 podcasts on running.