Our verdict

We found the Victory 2 to be a true superspike, evidenced by the world records it has shattered—including the prestigious women's 1500m. The impressive combination of ZoomX foam, a stiff carbon plate, and dual Air Zoom units creates a powerful, bungee-like ride. We believe it's a powerhouse for events from 800m onward, though its steep price matches the elite features.

Pros

  • Exhilarating ride
  • Breathable, snug-fitting upper
  • Propulsive Air Zoom units
  • Versatile for mid-to-long distances
  • Lightweight
  • Improved 4-pin outsole
  • Built for smashing PBs

Cons

  • Price
  • Not the best for beginners
  • Upper needs more durability

Audience verdict

99
Superb!

Who should buy

After enjoying the Victory 2 on the track and tearing it apart in the lab, we found that:

  • It's the go-to spike for runners wanting a stiff, propulsive, and bouncy ride for anything between 800 m and 10000 m.
  • It works fantastic for those with heavier builds who extract maximum energy from the Air Zoom units.
  • It serves as a great—though pricey—training companion for fast athletes during interval or threshold sessions.

Nike Victory 2

Who should NOT buy

We think those wanting a more classic spike that's less extreme and stiff might prefer the Nike Dragonfly 2. It still features the advanced ZoomX foam and excel in long distance events but lacks the Air Zoom units, offering a more accessible, easier ride.

We also believe the Victory 2 isn’t the best choice for those seeking an affordable option, as its high price can be a deal-breaker. Instead, we recommend the Nike Zoom Rival D 10, which is more affordable and versatile, making it a solid alternative for budget-conscious track warriors.

Nike Victory 2 parts

Breathability

Fans of the Alphafly 3 will be thrilled with the Nike Victory 2, which features the same Atomknit technology that wowed us in that marathon racing shoe. It offers an exceptional fit that comfortably accommodates going sockless and boasts excellent ventilation.

We confirmed its breathability using our smoke-pumping machine—the air flowed through continuously and without interruption. This means no matter how hot your favourite summer track meet gets, the Victory 2 will keep you cool.

Our examination with the light showed how Nike strategically reinforced the shoe with thicker stripes on the sides for added stability while maintaining superb ventilation throughout. This design is particularly beneficial for those who prefer racing longer distances.

Nike Victory 2 microscope

Using a microscope, we got an up-close look at the Atomknit upper, which revealed countless tiny holes that allow for maximum air escape, enhancing the shoe's breathability.

Nike Victory 2 microscope

But the thoughtful details don't end there.

Nike Victory 2 logo

In addition to the classic heel hole from some Nike spikes, we appreciated Nike's innovative use of its logo in the heel to improve ventilation—a premium detail that may be subtle but significantly enhances comfort and design.

What we didn't find, of course, was padding. But who wants that in a racer? It adds weight!

Test results
Victory 2 5
Average 3.9
Compared to 12 running spikes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

The trade-off for such a breathable upper is noticeably compromised durability.

Sadly, when subjected to our rigorous Dremel test, the Victory 2 stood no chance, compelling us to give it the lowest durability rating possible—a mere 1 out of 5. However, Nike has really reinforced the toe cap area, so it's unlikely to tear it apart with the toes.

Nike Victory 2 Toebox durability
Test results
Victory 2 1
Average 2.5
Compared to 11 running spikes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

After a disappointing performance in our initial Dremel test, we changed the position of the shoe to evaluate the heel counter of the Victory 2.

In this area, we found notable improvements and awarded it a solid 3 out of 5 score. Luckily, our assessment revealed that, despite the previous setback, the heel counter at least demonstrates enhanced resilience and effectiveness.

Nike Victory 2 Heel padding durability
Test results
Victory 2 3
Average 3.6
Compared to 11 running spikes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole thickness

Unlike a daily running shoe, the Victory 2 doesn't have a typical rubber outsole but instead features two large translucent TPU pieces in the heel and forefoot.

Nike Victory 2 outsole mini lugs

These pieces are equipped with tiny lugs that enhance traction, enabling Nike to streamline the design from a 6-pin to a more efficient and lighter 4-pin setup.

Nike Victory 2 Outsole thickness
Test results
Victory 2 1.9 mm
Average 2.8 mm
Compared to 12 running spikes
Number of shoes
1.6 mm
Outsole thickness
6.4 mm

Cushioning

Heel stack

The heel of the Victory 2 is cushioned right up to the World Athletics limits, which will require running spikes to have less than 20 mm of height after the Paris 2024 Olympics. The Victory 2 measures at 19.9 mm, barely under this cap.

Nike Victory 2 heel cushioning

This maximum cushioning is crucial for modern spikes and represents a significant upgrade from older models. It helps maintain leg freshness, which is essential for powering through the final laps and execute a final kick.

Nike Victory 2 Heel stack
Test results
Victory 2 19.9 mm
Average 15.2 mm
Compared to 12 running spikes
Number of shoes
10.4 mm
Heel stack
19.9 mm

Forefoot stack

In the forefoot, we measured a stack height of 19.3 mm, again near the World Athletics' current limit. However, it's crucial to highlight that this area contains no foam—the majority of this height comes from the bouncy Air Zoom unit alone!

Nike Victory 2 Forefoot stack
Test results
Victory 2 19.3 mm
Average 14.4 mm
Compared to 12 running spikes
Number of shoes
8.6 mm
Forefoot stack
19.7 mm

Drop

The drop measures just as we expectated at 0.6 mm, and it doesn't negatively affect the shoe's performance, but the opposite.

That's because for maximum running economy, it's crucial to land on the Air Pods when using this shoe—heel landings are not advisable and...can be detrimental to the tightness of your calves.

Nike Victory 2 Drop
Test results
Victory 2 0.6 mm
Average 0.8 mm
Compared to 12 running spikes
Number of shoes
-5.8 mm
Drop
4.1 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

The Nike Victory 2 encapsulates the best technology Nike currently offers, with the midsole featuring the same Pebax-based ZoomX foam from the Vaporfly 3. This foam has consistently ranked among the most responsive and bouncy materials since 2017.

When we tested the softness of this ZoomX foam with our durometer, it registered at just 12.5 HA—surprisingly softer than expected and nearly half as firm as what we measured in the Dragonfly 2.

Nike Victory 2 foam
Don't expect a soft feel underfoot while running, as the combination of the plate and Air Zoom units delivers a stiff and firm ride.

This observation supports our previous findings detailed in our guide about foams—that despite sharing the same name and base material, ZoomX formulations can vary significantly between models.

Nike Victory 2 Midsole softness
Test results
Victory 2 12.5 HA
Average 24.8 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 9 running spikes
Number of shoes
12.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
30.3 HA

Insole thickness

If there's potential for performance enhancement in this shoe, replacing the 3.5-mm stock insole with a slab of ZoomX foam is definitely the way to go!

Nike Victory 2 Insole thickness
Test results
Victory 2 3.5 mm
Average 3.0 mm
Compared to 12 running spikes
Number of shoes
1.8 mm
Insole thickness
3.9 mm

Plate

Today, it’s hard to find a top-performing spike without a carbon plate. Nike incorporates a full-length, spoon-shaped Flyplate, inspired by the Vaporfly series, to deliver a stiff, propulsive ride.

This design is crucial for compressing both Air Zoom units to maximise energy return from the force exerted onto the ground.

Nike Victory 2 Plate

Air Zoom

Speaking of key features, the main star of the show is the dual Air Zoom unit in the forefoot of the Victory 2, which offers a signature bungee-like feel unmatched by most other superspikes on the market.

The bouncy sensation from these Air Zoom units is unique. Additionally, a major advantage is their durability—unlike foam, the performance of these units remains nearly unchanged, showing minimal fatigue or degradation even after hundreds of miles.

Removable pins

Each pin in the new setup is detachable using the included tool from Nike, allowing you to swap them out as desired or necessary.

Nike Victory 2 Removable pins

Flexibility

Stiffness

Equipped with a carbon-fibre plate, we anticipated high stiffness, but we needed to quantify this in our lab as we do with every test. After securing the Victory 2 to the bench and flexing it to 90 degrees, we measured a force of 40.6N, confirming our expectations!

Test results
Victory 2 40.6N
Average 28.3N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 12 running spikes
Number of shoes
10.9N
Stiffness
66.6N

Stability

Torsional rigidity

Scoring a 4 out of 5 for torsional rigidity with a carbon plate may seem surprising, as the norm is typically a 5/5. However, the Victory 2 features a thinner plate, and the restricted amount of midsole material due to the 20-mm World Athletics limit allows for slightly less torsional rigidity.

Test results
Victory 2 4
Average 3
Compared to 12 running spikes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

The heel counter is basically nonexistent, typical of a thoroughbred racing shoe. As we folded it without any resistance, we awarded it a 1/5 on our scale.

Test results
Victory 2 1
Average 1.6
Compared to 12 running spikes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width in the forefoot

In our evaluation of the midsole dimensions, we noted that Nike opted for an average width at 93.1 mm.

This design ensures that the midsole supports optimal functionality of the Air Zoom technology, enhancing performance without introducing potential issues from an excessive forefoot width.

Nike Victory 2 Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Victory 2 93.1 mm
Average 93.9 mm
Compared to 12 running spikes
Number of shoes
87.6 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
100.5 mm

Midsole width in the heel

We once again used our digital callipers and measured a heel width of 73.3 mm, which is noticeably wider compared to many spikes.

But this spike isn't for short, explosive races but rather for setting a set-and-forget pace below the next runner, and clocking dozens of laps on the track often benefits from extra stability and support.

Nike Victory 2 Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Victory 2 73.3 mm
Average 62.1 mm
Compared to 12 running spikes
Number of shoes
54.0 mm
Midsole width in the heel
73.3 mm

Size and fit

Toebox width at the widest part

The fit is snug, like a race car—exactly what you'd expect from a shoe designed for breaking records. Our first measurement in the widest part of the toebox came in at just 90.7 mm.

As for the toebox volume, it's understandably low, wrapping the foot tightly to help propel you forward with every stride and add a layer of security. It may not be as comfortable or spacious as a Pegasus 41, but it's exactly what you need when heading to the track.

Nike Victory 2 Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Victory 2 90.7 mm
Average 88.9 mm
Compared to 12 running spikes
Number of shoes
81.9 mm
Toebox width at the widest part
96.4 mm

Toebox width at the big toe

If you look closely at the toebox shape, you might be misled by its design, which even resembles the anatomic style of Altra shoes.

Nike Victory 2 pov

However, this is typical for spikes due to their shape in the midfoot and ball of the foot, next to the metatarsophalangeal joint. Our measurement of 72.4 mm confirmed that there isn't much room for your toes, but as we've mentioned before, this is exactly what you want in a racer.

Nike Victory 2 Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Victory 2 72.4 mm
Average 73.4 mm
Compared to 11 running spikes
Number of shoes
68.3 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
77.1 mm

Comfort

Tongue padding

We found that Nike crafted an ultra-thin 0.6-mm tongue—significantly thinner than the 1 to 3 mm tongues typically found in top-tier spikes and road racing shoes. This feather-light design feels almost nonexistent, though it does sacrifice some protection for your instep.

Nike Victory 2 laces
The Bowerman Prototype colorway we purchased looks truly iconic.

Another standout feature is the notched laces Nike incorporates into most of its competition shoes for road, track, and cross country. They are here too, and we must underscore that these laces significantly enhance security, ensuring they won't come undone mid-race.

Nike Victory 2 Tongue padding
Test results
Victory 2 0.6 mm
Average 2.5 mm
Compared to 12 running spikes
Number of shoes
0.4 mm
Tongue padding
7.5 mm

Heel tab

The Victory 2 adopts the iconic heel hole design from the Dragonfly series. 

Nike Victory 2 heel

Though it might appear like a knick-knack, it actually plays several roles like reducing weight and enhancing heel lockdown.

Nike Victory 2 Heel tab
Test results
Victory 2 None

Weight

During our hands-on testing of the Victory 2 on the track, we were immediately struck by its feather-light feel—a sensation akin to running barefoot! This impression was confirmed by our scale, which registered a mere 4.8 oz or 135 g.

Nike Victory 2 Weight
Test results
Victory 2 4.76 oz (135g)
Average 5.50 oz (156g)
Compared to 12 running spikes
Number of shoes
4.59 oz (130g)
Weight
6.46 oz (183g)

Price

We can't sugarcoat the cost of the Victory 2, yet it's undeniable that it provides all the features sought in a world-class spike—a carbon fibre plate, cutting-edge ZoomX foam, and a propulsive Air Zoom unit. And it looks amazing.

Nike Victory 2 bag

This combination defines it as not only one of the greatest spikes ever made...but also as one of the most expensive.

Test results
Victory 2 $190
Compared to 12 running spikes
Number of shoes
£70
Price
£190