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

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.

Product Judgment

8.5

Strong

released 2025

Price Judgment

~$190$280$257$210$187

Buy

Widely Available

Performance

Comfort: 7Energy Return: 10Stability: 5Durability: 5Fun to Ride: 9

Run Fitness

Daily: 3Long: 5Tempo: 9Race: 10Recovery: 2

Pros & Cons

Ultra-lightweight
Elite energy return
Snappy, propulsive ride
Limited durability
Low stability
Narrow, tapered fit

Specs

Best for2:45–4:30 min/km
Drop6 mm
Stack35 mm heel
Weight151–167 g
Terrainroad
Widthmedium
Pronationneutral
Seasonall seasons
PlateCarbon

Judgment Summary

Elite-level racing flat excelling at speed and energy return for short to mid-distance races.

Where to Buy