Nike Alphafly 3 Review: 200 Miles, Two Marathons, and Still Going Strong

After logging over 200 miles and completing two full marathons in the Nike Alphafly 3, I feel like I’ve finally put them through enough to give an honest review. These shoes are marketed as super shoes — designed for speed, efficiency, and personal bests — and they definitely live up to that title (with a few caveats).

Pros

1. Incredibly Fast and Responsive
The Alphafly 3 is built around a carbon plate that gives a noticeable boost in speed and bounce. Whether it’s a long tempo run or a track session, the propulsion from the plate makes holding pace feel almost effortless.

2. Lightweight and Breathable
The upper is thin and airy, keeping my feet cool even during longer runs. Despite being so minimal, it’s still extremely comfortable and supportive — I’ve never had an issue with hotspots or rubbing.

3. Great Fit and Lockdown
The laces on this shoe are simple but secure. A standard bow is all it takes to lock in, and they stay that way from start to finish. No mid-run adjustments needed.

4. Smooth, Rhythmic Ride
What I love most about the Alphafly 3 is how easy it is to settle into a rhythm. Once you find your pace, the shoe almost does the rest — rolling you forward and keeping things consistent. After hard sessions, I’ve noticed my legs feel fresher than they normally would.

Cons

1. The Price Tag
At $375 USD, this is one of the most expensive running shoes on the market. There’s no getting around that. It’s an investment — and not one every runner will want to make unless they’re chasing PRs or racing seriously.

2. Limited Availability
Certain colorways and sizes tend to sell out fast. You might have to hunt a bit to find the pair you want.

3. The Noise
Like every version of the Alphafly before it, the V3 is loud. You’ll know when someone’s running in them — the “clopping” sound has become almost iconic. Think horse-trotting levels of attention.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a race-day weapon or a shoe to help crush a personal best, the Nike Alphafly 3 is a top-tier choice. It’s fast, light, and genuinely fun to run in. The high price and noise might turn some runners away, but for performance and feel, it’s hard to beat.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely.