Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 Review Analysis (2021)
Last update: April 2024
The Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 is a good stable running shoe with generous and comfortable cushioning.
The Consensus
Discover the latest version: Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3!
What strikes at first glance is the shoe’s more functional design. If the v1 moonlighted as a sneaker, this new one embraces its support shoe DNA fully with a broad and stable platform. The weight remains similar at 9.9 oz/281 g compared to 9.7 oz/275 g previously (men’s model). The sole offers high-stack cushioning with 33 mm under the heel and 24 mm under the forefoot. According to the testers, the React foam is still as soft as ever while providing a slight bounce-nothing that will knock your sock off, but it’s still appreciable for this type of shoe. For overpronators, the Infinity Run continues to use a TPU clip under the arch to locks-in the foot in terms of support. Without being uncomfortable, the testers noted that it was noticeable. Let’s note that this is a model for all runners, not just overpronators. However, if you have a neutral stride, this small plastic piece seems useless and may irritate you more than anything else.
The Flyknit upper is now denser for a better lockdown and more durability. Nike has more than one trick up its sleeve and decided to bring out its good old (but effective) Flywire technology. Overall, testers found the result convincing, even though some found the upper a bit too loose in some places.
Finally, the outsole comes with a generous amount of rubber with a unique design to improve flexibility. It’s a token of durability to keep the shoe longer—the testers found no signs of wear after several long runs.
In summary, the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 is a stable running shoe with a new, more efficient upper and comfortable cushioning that’s ideal for long-distance, daily training, and recovery.
- Improved upper for more effective foot lockdown
- Comfortable cushioning with more bounce than what we usually find on support shoes
- Wide and stable platform
- Sturdy model
- Reasonable weight
- The new upper may be a little loose for some people
- The TPU support clip is noticeable under the foot (however, this is often the case with stability shoes)
Technologies
Outsole
- The outsole of the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 is equipped with sturdy rubber to provide maximum durability and traction to keep stable at all times.
Midsole
- The React midsole React gives a soft and lively underfoot feet. It’s by far the plushest foam in Nike’s collection.
Upper
- The upper of the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 is Flyknit, a lightweight and breathable knit that offers precise and pleasant foot support thanks to its stretchy nature.
- Flywire is a system of wires tied to the laces that optimizes foot lockdown. It also helps to keep the upper in shape to make it more sturdy.
- The padded heel collar gives a more comfortable instep feel and foot lockdown.
Facts
Technical Specs
| Terrain | Road |
| Pronation type | Neutral |
| Drop | 9 mm |
| Heel stack height | 33 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 24 mm |
| Features | Heavyweight runners |
| Weight (men) | 281 g/9.9 oz |
| Weight (women) | 241 g/8.5 oz |
| Fit | Wide feet |
| Release year | 2021 |
Cushioning
| Softness (1-5) | 4 – Soft |
| Bounce (1-5) | 3 – Moderate |
Technologies
| Outsole | Sturdy rubber |
| Midsole | React |
| Upper | Flyknit, Flywire, padded heel collar |
Use
| Speed | Slow, moderate |
| Distance | Mid, long, 10k, half marathon, marathon |
| Workout | Daily runs, recovery |
Reference: Nike’s official site
Comparisons – Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 vs.:
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit
Few major overhauls from one version to another. Cushioning and outsole are about the same. The main improvement is in the upper with a denser Flyknit mesh that offers a more precise lockdown while providing a looser fit.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38
See the side-by-side comparison.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37
Both models have similar weight with the same foam (React) but the Infinity Run has a higher stack with 5 mm more sole under the heel. It’s a shoe designed for stability with a wide base, which makes it better suited for overpronators. For others, it’s best to try both shoes, as it’s primarily a matter of personal preference.
Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit
See the side-by-side comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, this model fits true to size. Indeed, we haven’t yet seen notes from runners mentioning that this shoe runs big or small. Therefore, you can buy your usual size for running shoes. Nonetheless, if this your first pair of Nike shoes, it’s advisable to test them in-store to be safe.
Yes, this shoe is a stability shoe that aimed to prevent overpronation. To do this, it uses a small TPU clip under the arch to guide the foot while running. Also, the Infinity Run has a wide and stable platform to support this goal. Nike claims that it can reduce the risk of injury. However, we should take their studies with a grain of salt. Indeed, they compared the first version of this model with another Nike stability shoe (Structure 22), but they never compared it with a neutral one. It would have been a more interesting study considering that the scientific consensus to date is that stability shoes are not more effective than neutral shoes in reducing the risk of injury.
Yes, this model should be a good fit independently of your weight as it features a comfortable high stack sole (33 mm under the heel and 24 mm under the forefoot).
This Nike running shoe lends itself well to long distances, so it should be a strong ally for a marathon. However, testers note that its cushioning is only moderately springy and therefore not designed for speed. If you plan to run your marathon at a leisurely pace, then the Infinity Run may be a good option. A competitive shoe seems more appropriate if you are aiming for a new personal record.
I’m very intrigued by these shoes as daily trainers and or long-run shoes but they’re quite expensive. I might stick with the Peg 39. But one of these days I have to try the infinity react.