Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2 review

We think the Nike Superfly Elite 2 is a great choice for:

• Advanced sprint enthusiasts looking for a propulsive spike perfect for short distances ranging from 60 to 400 metres.
• Runners willing to invest a bit more for a high-quality spike that delivers exceptional performance.
• Nike fans familiar with their road racers who want to experience short intervals on the track with the renowned Atomknit upper from the Superfly Elite 2.

We think the Nike Superfly Elite 2 isn't the best choice for everyone—particularly those new to track or not yet at high speeds. We recommend considering alternatives like the Nike Ja Fly 4 or the Adidas Sprintstar, which offer sufficient performance for amateurs at a more affordable price—plus a roomier fit.

Additionally, we've concluded that runners seeking some cushioning underfoot will be disappointed with the Superfly Elite 2, as it features only a minimal insole and lacks any foam. Instead, we suggest the Nike Air Zoom Maxfly, which includes two Air Zoom units plus ZoomX foam, providing a far superior cushioned experience.

As expected in a shoe designed for super-short, exhilarating efforts, the tongue is quite minimal. At a razor-thin 1.0 mm, it offers little protection against the laces.

By the way, speaking of the laces—we discovered that these are inherited from Nike's top-tier supershoes, such as the aforementioned Alphafly and the Vaporfly 3. That's a neat feature!

We discovered the same thickness in the forefoot as well, which was precisely what we expected from this shoe. So, once again, it measures 12.3 mm!

You don't need to be a math genius to realise that the Superfly Elite 2 boasts an impeccably precise 0.0-mm drop, right?

The 3.1-mm insole is the only cushioning offered by the Superfly Elite 2, so we highly recommend this shoe for those who prefer a straightforward, old-school sprinting experience.

As typical for a sprint spike, the fit is extremely tight, clearly designed for competitive use. We measured the widest part of the upper at just 82.2 mm, making it ideal for those with narrow feet.

We also discovered that the SE2 sports a very low-volume toebox, typical of most spikes.

However, we discovered a pleasant surprise from Nike when we took our second measurement—the Superfly Elite 2 doesn't taper much in the big toe area at 75.0 mm, allowing some room for the toes to splay.

In this region, our digital callipers recorded a surprisingly generous width (for being a track spike) of 75.0 mm.

The Superfly Elite 2 boasts an 8-pin configuration for enhanced traction at maximum speed, with all pins being fully removable.

We also discovered that it's not overly rigid from a torsional standpoint, scoring a balanced 3/5.

This results in a perfect harmony between comfort and propulsion. In our track tests, we found that this flexibility was particularly advantageous when taking the curves during 200 and 400-metre intervals.

The heel counter is exactly what you'd expect from a top-tier sprint spike—it feels just like a sock, offering absolutely zero stiffness. However, as we rate on a scale from 1 to 5, it scored a 1!

The Superfly Elite 2 proved to be extremely nimble and required advanced running technique, so we anticipated a modest measurement here.

Indeed, with just 87.6 mm in the forefoot, this sprint spike is clearly not suited for everyone. In other words—the faster and more skilled you are in the sport, the more benefits you'll gain from this model.

The heel mirrors the same design principles, being exceptionally narrow at 54.0 mm. Once again, proficient sprinting technique is absolutely recommended with the Nike Superfly Elite 2.

We previously mentioned that the outsole also serves as a plate, but due to its design and plastic-based material, we found it have average flexibility. In our 90-degree bend test, it registered just 31.5N, clearly showing the absence of carbon fibre in its composition, but also that it has a somewhat stiff ride.

Weighing in at just 5.5 oz or 156g, we consider the Superfly Elite 2 a remarkably lightweight option in the market. It's noticeably less hefty than the average sprint spikes offered by competitors.

From our point of view, it's a standout choice for advanced athletes seeking speed and agility on the track. 

When we first unboxed the Superfly Elite 2, we were immediately struck by its striking appearance and the Atomknit upper, the same advanced technology Nike employs in its ultra-expensive racing shoe—the Alphafly 3.

Based on our previous lab experiences with the Alphafly series, we anticipated good breathability from this upper. Our smoke test confirmed our expectations, yielding a strong score of 4/5, which we found good enough.

Using a light, we demonstrated the distinct differences between the upper’s structure in the heel—focused on overall support—and the forefoot, which prioritises ventilation.

Then, we took a closer look at the Atomknit upper, as the resulting images are always captivating. Indeed, we discovered the classic, random pattern characteristic of this knit type. Isn't it stunning?

Finally, we examined the upper manually, searching for any inconsistencies.

Despite its advanced knit construction, it is not stretchy, and we also noted that it provides adequate padding in the heel counter.

In our tests using a Dremel, the SE2 showed no resistance—the sandpaper tip destroyed the Atomknit upper.

Although it's uncommon for running spikes to show premature wear overall, runners who typically wear holes in this area with their big toe should be cautious of this potential issue.

Fortunately, the heel padding presents a much more positive scenario.

After applying the Dremel to this area, we discovered strong resistance from the lining and padding used by Nike, rightfully earning a solid score of 4/5.

The incredible outsole, with its 6.4-mm thickness, not only doubles as a propulsion plate but also grips exceptionally well on the track thanks to its aggressive design.

It is undoubtedly one of the most standout features of this shoe, offering both remarkable performance and durability.

As expected in a shoe designed for super-short, exhilarating efforts, the tongue is quite minimal. At a razor-thin 1.0 mm, it offers little protection against the laces.

By the way, speaking of the laces—we discovered that these are inherited from Nike's top-tier supershoes, such as the aforementioned Alphafly and the Vaporfly 3. That's a neat feature!

The heel includes a handy finger-loop heel tab, which isn’t just striking visually—we discovered it greatly simplifies sliding into the Atomknit upper!