Nike Vaporfly 3

Nike Vaporfly 3

Price$260
Weight6.5oz / 184g
Drop8mm
TypeRacing
Stack height40mm / 32mm
Pros & cons
✓ What testers liked
  • +
    Lightweight Construction (38.7%): Exceptionally light racing weight that makes foot turnover feel fast and unencumbered over all distances.
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    Comfort & Cushioning (38.7%): Thick ZoomX foam bed providing soft, impact-absorbing underfoot comfort during high-mileage runs.
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    Performance (36.8%): Noticeable snappiness and carbon plate drive helping runners hit personal bests (PBs).
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    Bounce, Energy Return & Responsiveness (23.4%): Highly energetic pop and spring off the forefoot with every stride.
  • +
    Aesthetics (14.6%): Sleek race profile and attractive colorways that look fast on foot.
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    Platform Stability & Support (12.6%): Improved underfoot security and cornering confidence compared to earlier iterations (especially women's).
  • +
    Breathable Flyknit Upper & Lockdown (10.3%): Lightweight upper mesh that holds the foot securely while maintaining high airflow.
  • +
    Joint Relief & Fatigue Reduction (8.4%): Effective shock absorption that minimizes post-run leg soreness, knee strain, and muscular fatigue.
✕ Where it falls short
  • –
    Durability (19.2%): Premium foam exposed to early scuffing, rubber pad separation, or premature tread wear (especially women's).
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    Fit (12.3%): Runs Small / Narrow. Snug toe box and low-volume midfoot prompting runners to size up by half a size (especially women's).
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    Heel Friction, Slippage & Blisters (11.5%): Minimal heel counter padding causing rubbing or heel slippage for certain foot profiles.
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    Value (6.5%): Premium price tag ($260+) making the shoe's cost-per-mile difficult to justify for casual training.
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    Narrow Midfoot / Ankle Instability (4.2%): High stack height and narrow midfoot waist feeling slightly wobbly on sharp turns or uneven road camber.
  • –
    Noise (2.3%): Noticeable acoustic slap or squeaking sound when striking flat surfaces.
Community reviews
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Alexander LikeOct 9, 2024
Vaperfly 3 My to go to shoes for the Amsterdam marathon
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