Saucony Ride VS Guide: The Winner Is…
Saucony Ride 18 vs. Guide 18: A clear look at how these daily trainers compare, with a goal of helping you decide which one is best for you.
When it comes to race-day super shoes, Nike has been leading the charge with models like the Alphafly 3 (links to review) and Vaporfly 3 (links to review). Both shoes are packed with cutting-edge running tech, but which one really delivers for you and your run because these two running shoes are totally different.
I’m going to break them down side by side, unfiltered and honest based on my in-depth reviews, so you can figure out which one fits your needs best.
Whether you’re chasing a marathon PR or looking for a speed boost in training, this article is about helping you find the right shoe, not just the most expensive one – if by the end of this article you think you way want to explore other brands, here is my list of the best carbon plate race day shoes right now.
Nike Alphafly 3 vs Vaporfly 3 (Comparison Chart)
| Feature | Alphafly 3 | Vaporfly 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $285 at Nike | $260 at Nike |
| Weight (US M9) | 7.2oz (204g) | 6.5oz (184g) |
| Drop | 8mm | 8mm |
| Upper | Atomknit (omni-stretch, breathable) | Flyknit (extremely breathable) |
| Midsole | 2x Air Zoom + ZoomX + carbon plate | ZoomX + carbon plate |
| Best for | Marathons, intervals, speed work | Race day, speed training |
| Foot shape compatibility | Medium | Narrow |
| Stability | Relatively stable (wider carbon plate) | Not very stable (narrow footbed) |
What’s Good About Both Shoes?
Nike Alphafly 3: Built for Speed and Stability
- Bouncier than ever: The Alphafly 3 is designed with two Air Zoom units in the forefoot that give you incredible energy return. Paired with Nike’s ZoomX foam and a full-length carbon fiber plate, this shoe launches you forward.
- A comfortable fit: With a more forgiving footbed than the Vaporfly, the Alphafly 3 feels relatively stable, making it an excellent choice for long-distance runs where stability and comfort is crucial.
- Surprising versatility: While it’s built for marathon racing, you can easily use these shoes for tempo runs and intervals, too – I have been! Once you break them in, they’re perfect for speed work without compromising comfort.
Nike Vaporfly 3: Lightweight Rocket
- Ridiculously lightweight: At just 6.5oz, the Vaporfly 3 is one of the lightest shoes you’ll find. If speed is your priority, you have narrow feet, and you’re a forefoot striker, this shoe is your race-day weapon.
- ZoomX energy return: This model uses the same ZoomX foam and carbon plate technology as the Alphafly but in a lighter, more compact package. The bounce is there; the weight is not (not that the Alphafly is heavy, it’s not!).
- Breathable and race-ready: The Flyknit upper keeps your feet cool, making these ideal for hot race days or intense speed sessions.
What’s Not So Good About Them?
Nike Alphafly 3
- Pricey: At $285, they’re at the top end of the spectrum. If you’re not racing marathons or running long distances regularly, the price might feel hard to justify.
- Chunkier design: While the stability is great, the extra features might be overkill if you’re only focusing on short-distance speed work.
Nike Vaporfly 3
- Too narrow: The Vaporfly 3 is very narrow. Even runners with medium-width feet (like myself) will find this shoe uncomfortable, particularly around the midfoot and arch.
- Lack of stability: Nike claims this shoe is stable, but I disagree. The narrow design makes it easy to roll, especially for those who need more support during longer races.
- Asymmetrical lacing: The quirky lacing system doesn’t add anything functional and feels awkward to tighten properly. The shoe design also prioritizes aesthetics over fit, which might bother some runners.
Verdict: Which One is Right for You?
Nike Alphafly 3 is best for runners with medium or slightly wider feet looking for a relatively stable shoe that excels at marathons, longer distances, and even speed work. It’s also perfect for runners who appreciate a comfortable, cushioned, and bouncy ride. If you’re prone to foot fatigue, the wider carbon plate and generous footbed provide a more secure and comfortable fit.
Nike Vaporfly 3 is ideal if you have narrow feet and want to feel as fast and light as possible on race day. It’s a great pick for 5Ks to marathons, but only if you can handle the lack of stability. Forefoot strikers who value ultra-light shoes and can manage without much support will love these, but if stability is a concern, I’d look elsewhere.
Need More Options?
If neither of these shoes quite fits the bill, don’t worry – I’ve put together a roundup of the best super shoes on the market. Check it out for more recommendations, whether you’re after stability, speed, or something that won’t break the bank.
Before You Go: If you found this article helpful, be sure to subscribe to my newsletter and Youtube Channel for more brutally honest running shoe reviews. Got any questions or want to share your own experience with the Alphafly or Vaporfly? Drop a comment below!
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