Nike Alphafly 3 Review: Features, Specs and Verdict

The Nike Alphafly 3 is Nike’s most advanced marathon racing shoe, with ZoomX foam, a carbon plate and Air units in the forefoot. This version is surprisingly light for its size, much more stable than the previous one and finally offers smooth transitions, making it one of the best options for chasing a PB.

This review is based on official Nike data and on published lab tests and reviews, such as RunRepeat, not on our own testing. The rating on the card, 9.3 out of 10, is an approximate score based on those reviews.

What’s new in the Nike Alphafly 3

The Alphafly 3 has a continuous midsole, which makes transitions much smoother than the Alphafly 2, and repositions the Air units for a better ride. It is lighter and more stable, and the arch is redesigned to avoid the discomfort earlier versions caused.

Nike Alphafly 3 technical specifications

Feature	Value
Official weight (men)	198 g
Lab-measured weight	201 g
Official drop	8 mm
Lab-measured drop	8.5 mm
Heel / forefoot stack (official)	40 / 32 mm
Surface	Road
Pronation	Neutral
Use	Racing
Carbon plate	Yes
Price at BIKILA (October 2026)	€199.95

Differences between official and measured figures are normal: brands usually give the weight of a specific size and measure drop differently. If you want to understand what they mean, I explain it in the guide on drop, cushioning and carbon plate.

Midsole and ride

The combination of ZoomX, a carbon plate and Air units gives huge energy return and helps you hold your pace when your legs start to tire. It shines in the marathon, but also works very well for 5K and 10K.

Upper and fit

The upper is among the most breathable on the market. The sock-like tongue isn’t for everyone, and the arch, although improved, may still bother some runners.

To get the size right, follow the steps in the guide on running shoe size.

Outsole and durability

The outsole is thin to save weight, and heavy heel strikers may wear it down quickly.

Who is the Nike Alphafly 3 for?

Marathoners looking for a super shoe with lots of energy and stability, and runners who wanted the Alphafly feel without the bulk of the previous version.

Who it isn’t for: if outsole durability worries you or you had arch blisters with earlier versions, there are alternatives. And it isn’t a shoe for daily training.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Very light for its size
• Huge energy in the marathon
• Finally smooth transitions
• Very breathable upper

Cons:

• Outsole wears fast for heel strikers
• The arch may bother some
• High price

Alternatives

If you are unsure, compare it with other shoes reviewed on KnowPace: adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4, Nike Vaporfly 4, Saucony Endorphin Speed 5. You can put them head to head in the shoe comparison or see them all in the shoes section.

Final verdict

The Alphafly 3 is one of the best marathon shoes right now: light, stable and with huge energy. Expensive and not very durable, like everything in its category. Before you decide, the guides on training vs racing shoes and drop, cushioning and carbon plate may help. Choose well, run better.

Frequently asked questions

How much does the Nike Alphafly 3 weigh and what drop does it have?

According to Nike, it weighs 198 g in a men’s size and has a 8 mm drop. In the lab it measured 201 g and a 8.5 mm drop.

Who is the Nike Alphafly 3 for?

Marathoners looking for a super shoe with lots of energy and stability, and runners who wanted the Alphafly feel without the bulk of the previous version.

How much does the Nike Alphafly 3 cost?

In October 2026 it is €199.95 at BIKILA. The price changes with size, color and current offers.

What rating does the Nike Alphafly 3 get?

At KnowPace we give it 9.3 out of 10, an approximate rating based on published reviews. The Alphafly 3 is one of the best marathon shoes right now: light, stable and with huge energy. Expensive and not very durable, like everything in its category.