Running shoe comparison based on expert reviews, performance and real-world value.

Side by side comparison: Nike Alphafly 3 vs Nike Alphafly 4

Nike Alphafly 3
NikeAlphafly 3

Race

Product Judgment

9.2

Elite

released 2024

Price Judgment

~$200$358$328$268$239

Strong Buy

Widely Available

Performance

Comfort: 8Energy Return: 10Stability: 8Durability: 6Fun to Ride: 10

Run Fitness

Daily: 3Long: 8Tempo: 10Race: 10Recovery: 2

Pros & Cons

Elite energy return
Lightweight for stack
Smooth, aggressive ride
Outsole durability concerns
Fit may feel snug
Limited wet traction

Specs

Best for2:30–4:45 min/km
Drop8 mm
Stack38 mm heel / 29 mm forefoot
Weight198 g
Terrainroad
Widthmedium
Pronationneutral
Seasonall seasons
PlateCarbon

Judgment Summary

Elite marathon racer with top-tier energy return and aggressive ride, best for fast race efforts.

Where to Buy

Buy on Amazon
See detail
Nike Alphafly 4
NikeAlphafly 4

Race

Product Judgment

9.1

Elite

released 2026

Price Judgment

~$280$369$338$277$246

Reasonable

Not Yet Released

Performance

Comfort: 9Energy Return: 10Stability: 6Durability: 6Fun to Ride: 9

Run Fitness

Daily: 3Long: 8Tempo: 9Race: 10Recovery: 4

Pros & Cons

Elite energy return
Softer, smoother ride
Improved forefoot stability
Heel instability for some
Loud, squeaky ride
Fit runs short

Specs

Best for2:30–4:45 min/km
Drop8 mm
Stack39 mm heel / 31 mm forefoot
Weight188 g
Terrainroad
Widthmedium
Pronationneutral
Seasonall seasons
PlateCarbon

Judgment Summary

Propulsive marathon racer with softer cushioning; heel stability remains a limitation.

See detail