Vaporfly vs Alphafly: The Ultimate Showdown of Nike’s Elite Running Shoes in 2024!

Updated: October 11, 2024

October 11, 2024 in Reviews

If you are struggling to decide between the Vaporfly vs Alphafly, allow me, who has owned a large amount of both shoes, to take you through these super shoes.

I have run a 31.10 10k using the Vaporfly; I have also used the Alphafly significantly in training and racing.

Nike's revolutionary running shoes have taken the athletic world by storm, shattering records and changing the game forever.

Whether you're aiming for a new personal best or just curious about the hype, we're here to break down everything you need to know about these speed demons.

Alphafly 2 and the Vaporfly 3

The Alphafly 2 and the Vaporfly 3

This product review is based on information available at the time of writing. Product specifications, features, and pricing may change over time. While we strive for accuracy, some information may become outdated or contain errors. Please verify critical details with the manufacturer or retailer before making a purchase decision. This review represents the author's opinion and personal experience, which may differ from others. We are not responsible for any decisions made based on this review.

The Tech Behind the Speed: Vaporfly and Alphafly Innovations

At the core of both the Nike Vaporfly and Alphafly lies a combination of cutting-edge technologies that have redefined what's possible in running shoe design.

Let's break down the key components that make these shoes the talk of the running world.

ZoomX Foam Technology: The Bouncy Revolution

The foundation of both shoes is Nike's ZoomX foam.

This isn't your average running shoe cushioning. ZoomX foam is incredibly lightweight yet provides exceptional cushioning and responsiveness.

With every stride, it compresses and then springs back, which looks to help with returning energy to the runner and reducing fatigue over long distances. 

The Vaporfly and Alphafly both utilize ZoomX foam, but there are subtle differences in how it's implemented in each model.

Air Pods in the Alphafly 2

The Alphafly 2

The Alphafly 2, for instance, provides a very cushioned feel which is awesome particularly for those ultra-long distances.

Whereas the Vaporfly 3 feels more like a traditional race shoe with responsiveness and a snappy feel off the ground.

Carbon Fiber Plate: The Springboard Effect

Perhaps the most talked-about feature of these shoes is the full-length carbon fiber plate embedded in the midsole. 

The carbon plate works in harmony with the ZoomX foam, creating a sensation that many runners describe as feeling like they're being pushed forward with each step.

It's this combination that has led to numerous world records and personal bests across various distances.

Midsole Magic: Stack Height and Responsiveness

One of the key differences between the Vaporfly vs Alphafly lies in their midsole construction. 

This increased cushioned feel and Zoom air pods of the Alphafly, is particularly beneficial for marathon distances and beyond, where impact protection becomes crucial.

The Vaporfly, while still offering substantial cushioning, feels more aggressive which can make it feel more versatile across a range of distances, from 5k races to marathons.

Upper Materials: Flyknit vs Atomknit

The upper construction of these shoes also sets them apart:

The Nike Vaporfly 3

The Nike Vaporfly 3

  • The latest Vaporfly 3 utilises Flyknit, which is incredibly lightweight and extremely breathable, even on mid-summer runs my feet have felt cool.
  • The latest Alphafly features Atomknit, Atomknit which is still very breathable and almost fits like a glove or sock, however it offers more protection from water in my experience. 

Both materials are designed to keep weight to an absolute minimum while providing the necessary support for high-speed racing.

Vaporfly: The Original Game-Changer

Let's look at the history of the Vaporfly vs Alphafly.

The Nike Vaporfly burst onto the scene in 2017, immediately turning heads and raising eyebrows in equal measure. I was quick of the mark in testing these shoes.

Let's take a closer look at this revolutionary shoe:

Evolution of Speed

The Vaporfly line has seen several iterations since its introduction:

Nike Next % (version 1)

The Vaporfly Next % (second in the generation)

  1. Vaporfly 4%: The original model, which was said that a 4% improvement in running economy was possible.
  2. Vaporfly Next%: An update that increased the ZoomX foam and improved the upper.
  3. Vaporfly Next% 2: Refining the fit and durability while maintaining the core technology.
  4. Vaporfly Next%3: Slightly more ZoomX foam added to the midsole. 

Each version has built upon the success of its predecessor, continually pushing the boundaries of performance.

Key Features of the Latest Vaporfly

The current Vaporfly model boasts:

  • A full-length carbon fiber plate for propulsion and efficiency
  • ZoomX foam throughout the midsole for lightweight cushioning and energy return
  • Light padding on the tongue helps reduce lace pressure 
  • Waffle outsole pattern with perforations for traction.

Ideal Distances and Running Styles

When deciding between the Vaporfly vs Alphafly your target race distance is one of the biggest factors in your choice.

The Vaporfly shines across a range of distances, from 5k races to marathons. Its versatility makes it a favorite among runners who compete in various events. It's particularly well-suited for:

  • Efficient runners with a midfoot or forefoot strike
  • Those looking for primarily speed and responsiveness
  • Runners targeting distances between 5k and the marathon
  • Those preferring a more "traditional" shoe

Notable Achievements

The Vaporfly's impact on the running world can't be overstated. Some remarkable achievements include:

  • Eliud Kipchoge's 2:01:39 marathon at the time world record in Berlin (2018)
  • Numerous Olympic medals and major marathon victories

Alphafly: The Long Distance Game Changer

Introduced in 2020, the Alphafly builds on the Vaporfly's success, but is a completely different shoe for me its own areas of expertise:

Features of Alphafly:

  • Increased ZoomX foam in the midsole for maximum cushioning
  • Visible Zoom Air pods for added responsiveness
  • A carbon fiber plate for enhanced propulsion
  • A bouncy feeling ride.

The Sub-2 Hour Marathon Shoe

The Alphafly gained instant fame as the shoe Eliud Kipchoge wore during his historic sub-2-hour marathon in Vienna.

While this wasn't an official world record due to the controlled conditions, it showcased the shoe's potential to push human limits.

Best Uses for Alphafly

The Alphafly is designed with the marathon distance in mind. Its features make it particularly suited for:

  • Long distance races, from the half marathon to ultra-marathons
  • Runners who want maximum cushioning and energy return
  • Those looking for the absolute premium racing shoe technology
  • Those who like to feel they are getting an added bounce in their stride

Heel-to-Toe Drop and Foot Strike

The Heel to Toe Drop of both the latest Alphafly and Vaporfly are actually the same at 8mm. 

I think as the Alphafly tends to have more stability overall it would suit a range of foot strikes. This can help particularly when you begin to tire in long distance races.

For me you get the most out of the Vaporfly when on your midfoot. 

Sizing and Width Options

Both shoes tend to run true to size, but it's always best to try them on if possible. Neither model offers multiple width options, which can be a drawback for runners with particularly narrow or wide feet.

If you do have wider feet I would try the Alphafly first and ideally in a running store, where you can test on a treadmill. 

Durability

These shoes are designed for performance rather than longevity.

The trade-off for their lightweight performance is reduced durability compared to daily trainers

Most runners tend to reserve them purely for race day to extend their lifespan.

However, in my experience, the Alphafly tends to be slightly more durable, and you feel more of a bounce for longer with the shoe.

Performance Breakdown: Vaporfly vs Alphafly

Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of how these shoes perform across various aspects of running:

Speed Comparison

Both shoes are designed for speed, but to help decide between Vaporfly vs Alphafly here is my experience from racing in them both, I believe they shine in slightly different ways:

Vaporfly: 

  • Excels in shorter distances (5k to half marathon) due to its more flexible feel and lower weight.
  • In my experience, it is also easier to accelerate quickly when using the Vaporfly. So it's great for interval sessions and also if a race you have has lots of tight turns, for example.

Alphafly: 

  • Comes into its own in the marathon distance, where its additional cushioning and propulsion really make a difference. 
  • I also really like it for longer tempo runs, and occasionally, I will use my Alphaflys for a long run to save my legs.

Energy Return and Fatigue Reduction

The ZoomX foam and carbon plate combination in both shoes offer exceptional energy return.

However, the Alphafly's additional Zoom Air pods in the forefoot provide an extra bounce with each step. This can be particularly noticeable in the later stages of a marathon when fatigue starts to set in.

Stability and Cornering

The Vaporfly tends to respond better with quick turns and on uneven surfaces. For example many 10k courses and even 5k races are on looped routes, so you may have to complete turns or corners multiple times. 

The Alphafly's being a slightly heavier shoe can occasionally feel like it takes some time to get up to speed.

If you own both shoes I would advise to look at the course map of your upcoming race, particularly if over a distance such as the half marathon where both shoes could perform extremely well.

Wet and Dry Condition Performance

Both shoes perform admirably in various conditions:

I find my feet stay slightly cooler on a hot day in the Vaporfly now. However, it does also mean your feet can get quite wet in wet conditions.

Nike Vaporfly Grip

Nike Vaporfly 3 Grip

Both shoes perform well in terms of grip on the road in wet conditions. I think the Vaporfly has got significantly better at this in the later models as well.

The outsole designs on both shoes provide good traction on typical road surfaces, wet or dry.

Price Point and Value: Is the Investment Worth It?

There's no denying it – both the Vaporfly and Alphafly come with a premium price tag.

As of 2024, you can expect to pay around $250-$275 for a pair of Vaporflys and $275-$300 for Alphaflys.

Occasionally you can find deals or the older models if you want to try the shoe for a lower price perhaps.

So, are they worth the investment?

Potential Performance Gains

The real value comes in the potential performance improvements.

If you're a competitive runner aiming for a new PR or trying to qualify for a major race like Boston, the few minutes these shoes might shave off your time could be priceless.

Training vs Racing Usage

To maximize value, many runners use these shoes exclusively for races and key workouts. This approach helps extend the life of the shoes and ensures they're fresh for when it really counts.

I tend to leave my newest pair for races but then use the older models for workouts and intervals, as they still often have some use in them.

Who Should Choose Vaporfly?

To really help your final decision between vaporfly vs alphafly here is the ideal runner for each shoe in my opinion.

The Vaporfly might be your speed demon of choice if:

  • You're a versatile racer competing in distances from 5k to marathon
  • You prefer a more traditional feel underfoot (relatively speaking)
  • You have an efficient running form with a mid to forefoot strike
  • You want a shoe that feels fast and aggressive from the start

The Vaporfly excels in:

  • Shorter road races where quick turnover is key
  • Courses with a lot of turns or varied terrain
  • Situations where you want a balance of speed and cushioning

Who Should Choose Alphafly?

The Alphafly could be your ticket to a new PR if:

  • You're focused on marathon or ultra-marathon distances
  • You want the maximum amount of cushioning and energy return
  • You don't mind a higher, more structured feel underfoot

The Alphafly shines in:

  • Long, straight courses where you can lock into a rhythm
  • Races where reducing fatigue in the later miles is crucial
  • Situations where you want to feel a significant propulsive effect

Conclusion: Your Race, Your Choice

Both the Vaporfly and Alphafly are pushing the boundaries of what's possible in running shoe technology. Your choice between these two shoes will ultimately depend on your running style, race distance, and personal preferences.

The Vaporfly offers versatility and a more familiar feel, making it a great all-around racing shoe for distances from 5k to the marathon. It's the shoe of choice for many elites in shorter road races and remains a favorite for its balance of speed and comfort.

The Alphafly, with its maximum cushioning and propulsion, is the marathon specialist. It's designed to keep you feeling fresh deep into those long races, potentially helping you stave off the dreaded wall and power through to a new personal best.

I think if I could only have one shoe I would choose the Vaporfly but that would be very hard and primarily because I tend to like racing the 10k distance best. 

However remember if you do save the shoes for your key workouts and race days you may be able to build both shoes into your shoe rotation. So you don't have the tough decision of Vaporfly vs Alphafly.

Remember, while these shoes can give you an edge, it's your dedication and training that'll get you across that finish line.

They're tools to complement your hard work, not magic solutions. 

About the author 

James

James is an elite distance runner and has also raced triathlon for a number of years. James is a fully certified UESCA Running Coach and has a passion to help all athletes succeed in finding a balance within sport and life.