Nike Zoom Fly 4

Review Score
82%
🏅 Highly Rated
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Dan FeeneySydney DevoreBrian Kamstra
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Nike Zoom Fly 4: Review

“A durable and responsive choice for runners seeking speed.”

Overview


The Nike Zoom Fly 4 is a running shoe designed for speed and efficiency. This model is part of the Nike Zoom Fly family, known for integrating advanced technology to enhance runner performance.

Key Features:

  • Upper: The redesigned upper features a breathable mesh with a Flyknit inner layer, providing a secure and comfortable fit.
  • Midsole: A full-length Nike React midsole paired with a carbon fiber plate delivers a firm, responsive ride suitable for tempo runs and long distances.
  • Outsole: The outsole offers reasonable traction on roads and pavements, designed to handle the demands of daily training.

The Nike Zoom Fly 4 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize a combination of durability and speed. Its carbon fiber plate offers a propulsive feel, making it suitable for faster-paced workouts. While it may not be as soft as some of its counterparts, the React foam provides a stable and cushioned experience, suitable for a variety of running events.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 82%. This puts it rated just above the median rating of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's just above the median price of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the Nike Zoom Fly 4


The Nike Zoom Fly 4 stands out as a reliable option for runners looking for a shoe that can handle both training and race day. Its carbon fiber plate and Nike React foam combination delivers a ride that is both firm and snappy, ideal for speed workouts. The shoe's breathable mesh upper ensures a comfortable fit, while the secure lockdown adds to the overall stability. Although it may not offer the same level of bounce as some of its competitors, the Zoom Fly 4 compensates with its durability and protective cushioning. For runners seeking a versatile shoe that excels in faster-paced runs and provides ample underfoot protection, the Nike Zoom Fly 4 is a solid choice.

Updates to Nike Zoom Fly 4


The Nike Zoom Fly 4 maintains the same midsole and outsole as its predecessor, the Nike Zoom Fly 3, focusing its updates on the upper. The new upper features a breathable mesh with a Flyknit inner layer, providing a more comfortable and secure fit. The shoe also includes a redesigned heel pod for improved lockdown. These updates enhance the performance of the shoe, making it a strong contender in the Nike Zoom Fly lineup.

Comparable Shoes




The Nike Zoom Fly 4 is often compared to The Saucony Endorphin Speed 2, which is known for its softer PEBA midsole and lighter upper. While both shoes feature a carbon plate, the Endorphin Speed 2 offers a ride that is closer to the Vaporfly, with a softer and more responsive feel.



Another shoe that runners might consider alongside the Nike Zoom Fly 4 is the ASICS Novablast 2. Although it lacks a carbon plate, its rocker midsole geometry provides a transition-friendly experience, making it a viable alternative for those seeking a cushioned marathon shoe.



For a cushioned and lightweight ride suitable for long-distance runs, runners might compare the Nike Zoom Fly 4 with The adidas Takumi Sen 8. This shoe uses Lightstrike Pro midsole material and features 'Energy Rods' to assist with transitions.

6 Nike Zoom Fly 4 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

The Nike Zoom Fly 4 offers a firm and responsive ride, ideal for speed training and long-distance races.
The updated upper provides a comfortable and secure fit, with improved breathability to keep feet cool.
Durability is a strong point of the Nike Zoom Fly 4, with its React midsole and robust outsole designed for daily training.

3 Cons

Some runners may find the React foam less responsive and bouncy compared to other midsole materials like ZoomX.
The shoe's narrow design may not be suitable for runners with wide feet.
The Nike Zoom Fly 4 is heavier than some of its competitors, which may affect its suitability as a race-day shoe for some runners.

In Depth


Upper

The Nike Zoom Fly 4 features an updated upper that combines a stretchy Flyknit inner layer with a breathable mesh outer layer. This design offers a snug and secure fit, while the improved padding around the ankle locks the heel into place. The upper is comfortable and adapts well to the foot, although some runners may find it slightly roomy in the toe box.

Midsole

At the heart of the Nike Zoom Fly 4 is a full-length Nike React midsole, which provides a firm and responsive ride. The inclusion of a carbon fiber plate enhances the shoe's propulsive qualities, making it suitable for tempo runs and longer distances. While the React foam is denser and less responsive than ZoomX foam, it offers durability and a stable ride.

Outsole

The outsole of the Nike Zoom Fly 4 maintains the same design as its predecessor, offering reasonable traction on roads and pavements. It is durable and provides sufficient grip for daily training, though it may collect debris easily.

Size/fit

The Nike Zoom Fly 4 fits true to size, with a slightly roomy toe box that accommodates a range of foot shapes. The Flyknit collar and lacing system ensure a secure lockdown, while the overall fit is comfortable and supportive.

Comfort

Comfort in the Nike Zoom Fly 4 is achieved through a combination of a breathable upper and a cushioned React midsole. The shoe's firm ride is balanced by the protective cushioning, making it comfortable for runs beyond 10 miles.

Cushioning

The cushioning of the Nike Zoom Fly 4 is characterized by the dense React foam, which provides a firm yet protective underfoot feel. The shoe's high stack height ensures ample cushioning for long-distance comfort.

Breathability

The double-layer mesh design of the Nike Zoom Fly 4's upper offers excellent breathability, keeping feet cool and dry during runs. The Flyknit inner layer adds to the overall ventilation of the shoe.

Stability

Stability in the Nike Zoom Fly 4 is provided by the denser React foam, which offers a solid foundation underfoot. The shoe feels stable during runs, particularly at faster paces.

Durability

Durability is a strong suit of the Nike Zoom Fly 4, with its React midsole and robust outsole designed to withstand the rigors of daily training. The shoe is built to last, offering good value for money as a durable training option.

Grip

The grip of the Nike Zoom Fly 4 is sufficient for road running, with an outsole that performs well on dry surfaces. However, the shoe may lack traction in wet conditions and is not recommended for trail use.

Who should buy the Nike Zoom Fly 4?


The Nike Zoom Fly 4 is well-suited for runners who are looking for a durable and responsive shoe that can handle a variety of training scenarios. It's particularly beneficial for those who engage in speed training and want a shoe that provides a propulsive feel without sacrificing cushioning. The shoe's firm ride makes it a good choice for runners who prefer a more stable platform during their workouts.

Who should not buy the Nike Zoom Fly 4?


Runners who prefer a softer, more cushioned ride may not find the Nike Zoom Fly 4 to their liking due to its firmer React foam. Additionally, those with wide feet might find the shoe's narrow design uncomfortable. For such runners, options like the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 or the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run, which offer a more accommodating fit and softer cushioning, could be better alternatives.

Nike Zoom Fly 4: What's it good for?


The Nike Zoom Fly 4 is particularly good for tempo runs, threshold workouts, and long-distance races such as half marathons and marathons. Its carbon fiber plate and firm cushioning make it suitable for runners who want to maintain a fast pace over extended distances.

4 Nike Zoom Fly 4 FAQs


Is the Nike Zoom Fly 4 suitable for daily training?

Yes, the Nike Zoom Fly 4 is designed for daily training, offering a durable React foam midsole and a carbon fiber plate for a responsive ride. It's a great choice for runners who want a shoe that can handle both speed work and longer runs.

How does the Nike Zoom Fly 4 fit?

The Nike Zoom Fly 4 fits true to size with a slightly roomy toe box. The Flyknit collar and lacing system provide a secure lockdown, ensuring a comfortable and supportive fit.

Can the Nike Zoom Fly 4 be used for racing?

While the Nike Zoom Fly 4 is primarily designed as a training shoe, it can also be used for racing, especially for runners looking for a firmer and more stable alternative to specialized racing shoes.

What is the main update in the Nike Zoom Fly 4 compared to the previous model?

The main update in the Nike Zoom Fly 4 is the redesigned upper, which features a breathable mesh with a Flyknit inner layer for improved comfort and fit. The midsole and outsole remain the same as the previous model.

Nike Zoom Fly 4 alternatives



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Pro athlete users

+3
Weight
Weight
M: 249 g
W: 207 g
275 g
M: 235 g
W: 204 g
M: 218 g
W: 184 g
M: 221 g
W: 187 g
M: 221 g
W: 193 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
34 mm
30 mm
32 mm
29 mm
29 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
8 mm
6 mm
8 mm
8 mm
7 mm
5 mm
Heel
Heel
M: 36 mm
W: 28 mm
40 mm
38 mm
40 mm
36 mm
34 mm
Usages
Usages
Speed training
RacingSpeed trainingDaily runningSpeed trainingRacingSpeed trainingRacingSpeed trainingRacingSpeed training
Brand
Brand
Nike
New BalanceSauconySauconyASICSASICS
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
BreathableComfortableLightweightMaximalist
ComfortableMaximalistBreathableComfortableLightweightMaximalistBreathableComfortableLightweightMaximalistBreathableComfortableLightweightMaximalistBarefootBreathableComfortableLightweightMaximalist
Breathable
Breathable
Carbon fiber plate
Carbon fiber plate
Carbon plate
Carbon plate
Rock plate
Rock plate
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Techs
Techs
New Balance FuelCell
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Sustainable
0

Nike Zoom Fly 4: what the experts say (3 reviews)

Nike Zoom Fly 4: 8 Expert video reviews

Nike Zoom Fly 4 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+1920)
TerrainRoad (+1303)
UsagesSpeed training (+290)
BrandNike (+243)
Support TypeNeutral (+1503)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1483)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1062)Heel strike (+1141)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1430)
Shoe TypeBreathable (+331)Comfortable (+253)Lightweight (+418)Maximalist (+504)
FitNarrow toe box (+234)
FeaturesBreathable (+964)Carbon fiber plate (+77)Carbon plate (+47)Rock plate (+117)Rocker (+139)
MaterialsMesh (+859)
Events10k (+682)5K and 10K (+45)Half marathon (+682)Marathon (+682)
ColorwaysBlack / Anthracite / Hyper Violet / Black, Black / Anthracite / Racer Blue / White, Black / Blue, Black / Green Strike / Total Orange / Volt, Football Grey / Fire Pink-white-sapphire, Grey / Silver, Hyper Violet / Black Flash / Crimson, Orange, Pink, White
Specificationsvs Average
Model
4
Released
Sep 2021
Measurements
Weight
M: 249 g
W: 207 g
Heel to toe drop
8 mm
Heel
M: 36 mm
W: 28 mm

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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Tom Green
March 22, 2024 at 9:55 AM
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📊 Stats | Powered by geerly.com 👟 🕒 Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%