Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 Review (2022): Should You Get It?

Published on: 10/06/2022

The Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 is a comfortably cushioned neutral running shoe with stability benefits.

The Consensus

Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 Complete Review Analysis

Introduction

Interestingly, Nike initially marketed the first version of the Infinity Run line with the promise of injury prevention (1).

Nike claimed that runners would have fewer injuries in running shoes with plenty of cushioning, a wide base, a rocker midsole, and a stable heel. Coincidentally, these are all features of the Nike React Infinity Run line.

(Note that Nike no longer markets the line this way, and the findings were based on Nike’s internal study, so take them with a grain of salt.)

Keep reading if you want to dig into all the design features and details of this latest React Infinity Nike shoe.

Cushioning

If you’re a fan of the Nike React Infinity Run 2, you’ll love this new version because it uses nearly the same midsole.

The Infinity Run 3 uses Nike React foam, which offers enough cushioning to last through a marathon or half-marathon without the “mushy” feel of some max-cushion running shoes. Nike’s React foam delivers durable cushioning and doesn’t compress much under a load. It reportedly shows minor creasing after hundreds of miles.

The Nike React Infinity Run 3 has a 34 mm heel stack height and 26 mm forefoot stack. This equates to an 8 mm heel drop, which is something to keep in mind if transitioning from a higher-drop shoe.

Reviewers noted the Infinity Run 3 had a firmer and faster feel with a smoother ride, thanks to a new white Strobel lining on the midsole.

Reviewers found there wasn’t a lot of bounce compared with the Nike Pegasus ZoomX but more than the Epic React. Plus, the energy return at toe-off was reportedly lacking, making this model more suitable for training than racing. This new version is also about an ounce heavier at 11.7oz. But reviewers didn’t consider it a bad running shoe; most runners enjoyed wearing it for easy training or recovery runs.

Although it’s a neutral shoe, the Nike React Infinity Run 3 has features that support knee stability. A stabilizing U-shaped plastic clip cups your foot from heel to midfoot and acts like guide rails. Overpronators may like this model, too, although it’s not a stability shoe and doesn’t control foot pronation like the Nike Structure.

Some runners with flat feet found the arch too supportive, but most barely remarked on it.

Foot lockdown (upper)

With this update, Nike delivers an upper that’s reportedly more comfortable and better fitting than the Infinity Run 2. Nike’s Flyknit material is now thicker and more durable. However, some testers felt the Flyknit upper didn’t breathe well and retained more heat than last year’s iteration.

Overall, testers said the Nike React Infinity Run 3’s stretchy knit upper fit better and felt more supportive than the previous version. Unlike some other knit uppers, there are several ways to dial in the fit.

Nike used fewer eyelets, which helps the forefoot upper material stretch around the ball of the foot for a more secure fit. They also removed one of the flywire cables that wrap the midfoot and lock down the foot. Reviewers said the Infinity Run 3 provides good lockdown and molds to the foot with the structured, sock-like fit.

Runners with wide feet will be happy to know that the Infinity Run 3 does not have a narrow toe box.

Several reviews noted that the heel pull tab disappeared from the React Infinity Run 3, which you might miss when it’s time to put them on.

The React Infinity Run 2 had issues with the tongue ripping, so the new version has reinforced seams to keep it secure. The tongue has a little more padding; some reviewers noted it’s also longer and sticks up more.

And the Nike Swoosh logos on each side of the shoes? Those aren’t just for looks. They’re made from a more solid material that provides lateral and medial foot support. This reportedly makes the upper more comfortable than the harder logos from last year’s model.

The heel collar has a little extra bulk compared to the Infinity React 2. While most reviewers found it comfortable, some had issues with hot spots.

Grip and durability

The Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 has the same outsole as React Infinity Run 2.

Interestingly, runners shared that it feels like a stability trainer. This is likely due in part to the outsole’s wide base that makes full ground contact. The rearfoot and forefoot are broad, but the middle is narrow, providing arch support that is reportedly noticeable for those with flat feet.

Reviewers reported getting 300 to nearly 500 miles on the previous model, so it stands to reason that the React Infinity Run 3 will be just as durable.

Testers stated the grippy outsole provided solid traction on wet concrete and light trail surfaces. The React Infinity Run 3 is generally considered to do best on paved roads; however, if you like to run on trails or dirt roads, you’ll be happy to know that the outsole rubber doesn’t have deep grooves that can trap rocks.

The ride

Reviewers overwhelmingly agreed that the React Infinity Run 3 provides an enjoyable ride that feels stable throughout each step.

The Strobel lining that was added to the midfoot changed this version’s ride character. Reviewers found the ride firm and dense without the squishiness of the Infinity Run 2. The Strobel lining also makes the forefoot stiffer and less flexible, so the gentle rocker works better. Runners reported a softer ride with smooth transitions, especially during faster running.

Although the React midsole doesn’t have the bounce of high-performance Nike running shoes, testers reported good energy return while running fast.

The cushioning and wide base reportedly provide a softer ride that feels efficient. And there’s plenty of support and cushion for longer runs when tired legs can be an issue.

Like most maximal shoes, its weight may not be practical for fast runs. However, it remains decent, and reviewers agreed the React Infinity Run 3 is a solid choice for an everyday running shoe rotation.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a great-fitting, well-cushioned shoe for long runs and everyday training, Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 might be just what you’ve been searching for. While it’s not the most budget-friendly trainer, it could be a reliable daily trainer that you can put a lot of miles on.

Facts

Technical Specs

Terrain	Road
Pronation type	Neutral
Drop	8 mm
Heel height	34 mm
Forefoot height	26 mm
Weight (men)	286 g/10.1 oz
Weight (women)	261 g/9.2 oz
Features	Rocker
Athletes
Release year	2022
Price	Check prices

Cushioning

Softness	Soft
Responsiveness	Medium

Technologies

Outsole	Rubber
Midsole	Nike React
Upper	Flyknit, Flywire

Use

Speed	Slow, Moderate
Distance	Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon
Workout	Daily running, Recovery

Comparisons

• Nike Infinity vs. Nike Invincible Run: see the comparison!

References

https://www.nike.com/running/run-fearless