The Nike Alphafly 4 is the lightest and most responsive Alphafly that Nike has ever produced. It offers 10 per cent more energy return and weighs 5 per cent less than the Alphafly 3. This is not just a simple facelift: Nike has reviewed every key component to create a marathon shoe designed as a complete system, in which propulsion, cushioning, comfort and stability work together.
The brand has developed it based on the experience gained from several generations of the Alphafly, specific testing with female runners and research from its Sport Research Lab. The aim, in the words of Emily Farina, head of running footwear at the lab, is “to create a shoe that helps athletes feel more confident and capable in the final stages of the race”.
In this review, we look at what’s changed, how it feels, how it compares to the Alphafly 3 and the Vaporfly 4, and who it’s best suited to. If you’ve already made up your mind, you can view all the models at Nike Alphafly.
Nike Alphafly 4 Technical Specifications
Feature | Nike Alphafly 4 |
|---|---|
Use | Road running, competition, marathon |
Weight | Approx. 188g (Women's US size10) |
Drop | 8 mm |
Midsole | ZoomX LT + ZoomX |
Plate | Carbon fibre flyplate |
Extra cushioning | Dual Air Zoom unit in the forefoot |
Upper | Seamless Atomknit |
Sole | Fast Shot |
Price | 279,99 € |
TO BE CONFIRMED: Nike has not published the midsole height (stack). We will add this information when we have it.
Breakdown by component
The big news about the Alphafly 4 is that Nike has revamped all its components at once. Here are the key features of each one.
ZoomX LT foam: lighter and more responsive
The new ZoomX LT is up to 17 per cent lighter than the standard ZoomX and offers 8 per cent more energy return. Nike positions it both above and below the midsole plate and combines it with ZoomX. This creates a lively, springy ride without adding weight – which is exactly what you need in the final kilometres of a marathon.
Air Zoom: a softer stride
The two Air Zoom units in the forefoot are the hallmark of the Alphafly. In this generation, they have been updated for the first time and fine-tuned to work in tandem with the foam and the plate. The result is a smoother, quieter ride and a more powerful take-off.
Carbon Flyplate: stability and propulsion
The carbon fibre Flyplate is wide and retains the characteristic curved shape of the Alphafly’s forefoot. It provides stability with every step and helps propel the foot forward to maintain your pace with less effort.
Atomknit upper: a snug, breathable fit
The new Atomknit is soft, breathable and seamless. It features cables across the midfoot to support the foot, an integrated heel and a moulded insole. The aim is to keep the foot firmly in place without any pressure points, even when it swells during the second half of the race.
Fast Shot sole: a grip without any extra weight
The Fast Shot outsole is lightweight and designed to provide traction and grip on tarmac, as well as on bends and at refreshment stations.
Fit and feel
The Alphafly 4 aims for a more precise fit with fewer distractions: the heel is securely held in place and the upper moulds to the foot without feeling tight. It’s a shoe you forget you’re wearing whilst running – exactly what you need for a marathon.
Feedback from runners who have tried it is consistent:
- Addisu Gobena, winner of the Sydney Marathon: “The Alphafly 4 gave me confidence from the starting line right through to the finish line.”
- Meaghan Murray, from the prototype test group: “It’s the most propulsive, yet comfortable and cushioned, ride I’ve ever experienced in a racing shoe.”
Alphafly 4 v Alphafly 3: Is it worth the change?
If you’re looking for the latest model and top performance, go for the Alphafly 4. If you’re looking for the best value for money, go for the Alphafly 3, which is now available at great discounts.
Alphafly 4 | Alphafly 3 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Energy return | +10% than Alphafly 3 | Reference | |
Peso | 5% lighter | Reference | |
Foam | ZoomX LT + ZoomX | ZoomX | |
Air Zoom | Updated units | Previous generation | |
Upper | New seamless Atomknit |
| |
Price at Running Emotion | €279,99 | From €169,99 (previously €309,99 ) |
The Alphafly 3 remains an excellent marathon shoe. If price is your priority, this is a very attractive option. If you want to try out Nike’s latest technology, the Alphafly 4 represents a real leap forward in terms of lightness and responsiveness.
Find all the versions in the Alphafly range for men and the Alphafly range for women.
Alphafly 4 v Vaporfly 4: which one to choose?
Both are competition shoes with carbon plates, but they’re designed for different races.
- Nike Alphafly 4: more cushioning and the extra propulsion from its two Air Zoom units. It’s the go-to choice for a full marathon, where it’s important to still have your legs in one piece by the 35-kilometre mark.
- Nike Vaporfly 4: lighter, lower-profile and more agile. It excels in 10K and half-marathon races, and is the favourite for those seeking a faster, more responsive stride. It’s available from €259.99 in the new arrivals section and with discounts on many colours.
If you’re running a marathon and want maximum protection without sacrificing speed, choose the Alphafly 4. For shorter distances, or if you prefer a lighter shoe, check out the Nike Vaporfly 4.
Who is the Nike Alphafly 4 designed for?
The Alphafly 4 is designed for marathon running, from elite athletes battling for a place on the podium to amateur runners looking to beat their personal best.
It’s for you if:
- You’re training for a marathon and want maximum support on race day.
- You’re looking for a lightweight shoe that protects your legs in the second half of the race.
- You want a propulsive ride without compromising on comfort.
It’s not the best choice for everyday running. Save it for key intervals and races, and train in a more versatile shoe such as the Nike Pegasus or the Nike Vomero.
Launch and availability
Nike launched the Alphafly 4 as an early, limited-edition release on the 17th of September 2026, and made it available to the general public on the 29th of October.
At Running Emotion, the Nike Alphafly 4 for women is now available for €279.99, in EU sizes 39 to 42. We’ll be adding new sizes and colours, so keep an eye on our Alphafly category.
Update:
We have sold out of both the men’s and women’s styles. We will be restocking them soon.
Conclusion: the most comprehensive Alphafly to date
The Nike Alphafly 4 is lighter, more responsive and more comfortable than its predecessor, thanks to the new ZoomX LT foam, the revamped Air Zoom units and an Atomknit upper that provides support without feeling restrictive. If your next goal is a marathon, this is one of the best trainers you can wear on the starting line.
FAQ: Nike Alphafly 4
How much does the Nike Alphafly 4 weigh?
Around 188 g in women’s US size 10. It is 5 per cent lighter than the Alphafly 3.
What is the drop on the Alphafly 4?
It's 8 mm.
Is it suitable for a half marathon?
Yes, although it’s optimised for the marathon. For 10K and half-marathons, many runners prefer the Vaporfly 4, which is lighter and more agile.
How many kilometres is it?
TO BE CONFIRMED: Nike does not provide a durability figure. As with any competition trainers, we recommend reserving them for key training sessions and races.
Does it fit the same as the Alphafly 3?
TO BE CONFIRMED: Nike describes a more precise fit, but does not mention any changes to sizing. We’ll confirm this as soon as we’ve tested them.
