Nike Alphafly 3 - Elite marathon racing engineered for record-breaking speed
The Nike Alphafly 3 represents the pinnacle of marathon racing technology, refined to help you chase times you once thought impossible. Featuring dual forefoot Air Zoom units, a full-length carbon fiber plate, and fully connected ZoomX foam from heel to toe, this elite racing shoe combines three powerful technologies to propel you through 26.2 miles faster than ever before—now in Nike's lightest Alphafly iteration yet.
Triple-Technology Energy System
Two forefoot Air Zoom units work in tandem with ZoomX foam to create a dynamic energy return system—storing impact force and releasing it back through each stride. This dual Air system combined with Nike's most responsive foam delivers the propulsive power needed to maintain race pace when legs begin fatiguing in the latter stages of marathons. The fully connected ZoomX midsole creates an ultralight, cushioned sensation that protects your legs whilst keeping the ride lively from start line through the final sprint.
Enhanced Carbon Fiber Plate for Stability
The redesigned full-length carbon fiber plate is now slightly wider than previous versions, increasing stability without compromising the propulsive sensation. This plate helps you transition smoothly through every stride whilst providing the confidence to attack turns and maintain form when navigating crowded race conditions. The curved geometry works with the foam and Air units to create forward momentum with reduced perceived effort.
Redesigned Atomknit Upper
The all-new Atomknit upper provides improved multidirectional containment alongside enhanced breathability—crucial for maintaining comfort through sustained marathon efforts. Notched laces create secure lockdown without pressure points, whilst the integrated knit tongue features lofted padding to alleviate lace pressure during long-distance racing.
Key features:
- Dual forefoot Air Zoom units
- Full-length carbon fiber plate (wider for stability)
- Fully connected ZoomX foam midsole (heel-to-toe)
- Nike's lightest Alphafly ever
- All-new Atomknit upper
- Improved multidirectional containment
- Enhanced breathability
- Notched laces for secure fit
- Integrated knit tongue with lofted padding
Best for:
- Marathon racing
- Elite and sub-elite performance
- Personal best attempts
- Championship racing
- Marathon-pace sessions
- Runners targeting competitive times
- Goal race events
- 26.2-mile excellence
Is the Alphafly 3 right for you?
Marathon racing at elite or sub-elite level where every second counts? The Alphafly 3 suits runners chasing significant personal bests, qualification standards, or podium placements in marathon events. Perfect for athletes who've built substantial weekly mileage and possess the running economy to maximize carbon-plated technology—typically runners targeting sub-3:00 marathons or competitive age-group performances. This benefits those training specifically for goal marathons where marginal gains translate to breakthrough times, runners comfortable with minimal drop and aggressive geometry, or anyone seeking proven championship-winning technology. Reserve the Alphafly 3 for race day and crucial marathon-pace sessions where its lightweight construction, triple-technology propulsion system, and elite-level performance deliver the speed advantage serious marathon racing demands.