Comparison:
Nike Alphafly 2 vs Nike Alphafly 1
The Alphafly is Nike's top of the range long-distance super shoe. Here we will be comparing the Alphafly 2 and Alphafly 1.
Comparison:
The Alphafly is one of the most expensive super shoes you can buy. It's Eliud Kipchoge’s signature racing shoe and it helped him run the marathon distance in under 2 hours.
There is a big difference between the first and second version. Which is the shoe for you, the Alphafly 2 or Alphafly 1?
Similarity and differences: Zoom Alphafly Next% 2 vs Air Zoom Alphafly Next%
Expert score
7/10
9/10
Weight
8.00 oz
7.4 oz
Heel Drop
8 mm
4 mm
Verdict
The Nike Alphafly Next% 2 is a super shoe which was designed for narrow-footed runners and runners with high arches because it has a very narrow midfoot. It’s best suited to short, fast-paced workouts rather than long runs because of its firmer ride and prominent arch.
This version has been updated with a new, snugger Atomknit 2 upper, a more durable, flatter outsole and a wider, more stable midsole.
The Alphafly Next% is the flagship Nike marathon racing shoe and is deserving of its premium price.
Light, breathable Atomknit makes its debut while the combination of ZoomX and a stiff carbon plate results in a propulsive ride second to none.
And if that wasn't enough, two giant Zoom Air pods in the forefoot give the Alphafly extra “pop”.
Light, breathable Atomknit makes its debut while the combination of ZoomX and a stiff carbon plate results in a propulsive ride second to none.
And if that wasn't enough, two giant Zoom Air pods in the forefoot give the Alphafly extra “pop”.
Recommended for
Racing, speedwork
Racing, long distance racing, ultra distance racing
Cushioning type
Responsive/balanced
Responsive/balanced
Cushioning amount
Highly cushioned
Highly cushioned
Flexibility
rigid
rigid
Stability
some stability
very stable
Sizing
true to size
true to size
Retail price
US$275.00
US$275
Sole unit: Zoom Alphafly Next% 2 vs Air Zoom Alphafly Next%
The Alphafly 1 and 2 both have a full length carbon plate, a ZoomX midsole and air pods.
The ZoomX in the Alphafly 2 feels noticeably firmer than the Alphafly 1 so it has a firmer ride. It also feels less bouncy and more stable than the Alphafly 1.
The Alphafly 1 is better for long runs and slower paces because it has a softer ride whereas the Alphafly 2 is better for short distances and faster paces.
The firmer midsole of the Alphafly 2 also creates a prominent arch sensation, so if you have flat feet, the arch pokes into your midfoot. During long runs, the Alphafly 2 can create blisters on the arch of certain foot types.
The outsole of the Alphafly 2 has more rubber coverage than the Alphafly 1 which makes it more durable. The outsole is also flatter which makes transitions smoother in the Alphafly 1.
Upper unit: Zoom Alphafly Next% 2 vs Air Zoom Alphafly Next%
The uppers of both the Alphafly 1 and 2 are bootie construction uppers which don’t have a separate tongue.
The big difference is the inner heel area. On the Alphafly 1, it’s plumper and filled with more padding. This results in better heel lockdown than the Alphafly 2.
Which one to buy: Zoom Alphafly Next% 2 vs Air Zoom Alphafly Next%
If you’re a runner who prefers a firm ride which is also very stable, you should get the Alphafly 2. It is better for short runs because it’s firmer than the Alphafly 1. The Alphafly 2 also has better durability than the Alphafly 1.
If you have flat feet or wide feet, you should get the Alphafly 1 because the Alphafly 2 could cause blisters on your arches due to the narrow midfoot. If you’re a runner who wants a soft, bouncy ride, you should also get the Alphafly 1.
Best price online: Zoom Alphafly Next% 2 vs Air Zoom Alphafly Next%
This expert review is written by
Brandon Law
Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
Brandon is a South African who lives and trains in Malaysia. He is a marathon runner who eats, sleeps and dreams running shoes. While most people wear shoes to run, he runs to wear shoes.
