From the RUNNEA editorial team we are back with one of those Nike running shoe comparisons that have a large legion of followers: We pit the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit against the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2!
With the recurring game of 5 differences we analyze and highlight the differences of these top-of-the-line running shoes from Nike. Although we also list their main points in common. Now, the thing should be clear: it's not about determining whether the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit are better running shoes than the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2, or the other way around.
The idea we pursue at RUNNEA is that you have all the necessary information about these two best-selling silhouettes from the Oregon brand so that your decision to buy the second version of the React Infinity Run Flyknit or the ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit is the right one, and, above all, fits your needs as a runner.
Are you up for the game of figuring out the differences and commonalities of these running shoes?
Commonalities between the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit and the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit
Let's start with the similarities between the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit and the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 For the most part, those similarities are present in their own business cards with their categorization and the runner profile they are aimed at.
Everyday training shoe
In both cases, both the React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 and the ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit are categorized as daily training shoes to accumulate a large amount of kilometers, but always with that premise of improving the running experience of the athlete.
Runner profile of neutral stride and medium/high weights.
Although the design of the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 has been developed to offer support -they are a valid option for mild and/or moderate pronators as well-, it can be said that both models are oriented to a neutral footed runner profile, as well as intermediate/high weights, from 75 kilos onwards.
In principle for all types of distances, and also for running at more relaxed and easy paces, from 5:00 min/km. However, the reactivity of the ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit does allow you to increase your running intensity and speed up the pace a bit, but without going crazy with the times. Neither are fast shoes.
Rocker geometry design.
These Nike cushioning shoes also incorporate that unique rocker design. Its benefits are noticeable and are felt in improved support during different phases of the stride cycle.
At the same time this technological resource is also able to ensure flexibility in the toe-off phase, fluidity in the swing phase and cushioning in the impact phase of each stride.
Upper made of Flyknit
It's obvious, and you only need to look at them side by side. Oregon's trademark Flyknit knitted fabric wraps the entire upper of both shoes. Thus, main features such as breathability, resistance and durability are guaranteed, increasing the feeling of running more safely from the first to the last kilometer.
A nuance, in the specific case of the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2, this upper with Flyknit is accompanied by Flywire technology, which not only reinforces the support, but also has the mission to provide stability in a strategic point such as the midfoot area.
Very similar technical specifications
In the technical specs chapter, both silhouettes are slightly above the 300 barrier. Although the ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit are slightly heavier at 314 grams -starting from a reference size 44EU in men's version- versus 302 grams for the React Infinity Run Flyknit 2
They also share the same 9 drop, although there are slight differences regarding the heights of their midsole geometries which is higher in the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit, and their measurements are 27.6mm. in the forefoot and 36.6mm. in the heel. In contrast, the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 features 24mm. in the forefoot area and 33mm. in the heel part.
This way, the balance is unbalanced with your own intentions, if you want to run, or not, with the sensation of having more foam under your feet.
What differentiates the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit from the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2?
Time for the differences. This section is the one that can help you determine whether you'll be fine with the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2, or the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit.
You might be interested in: Why has the Nike React collection been a true revolution in Running shoes?
Cushioning foams in the midsole
Their very names already give clues as to what you can find in each of their midsole. In the innovative Invincible, ZoomX foam is designed to give you a unique underfoot experience, maximizing that combination of optimal cushioning and extraordinary responsiveness. In fact, it's one of Nikes most energy-returning daily training shoes. The goal: to optimize energy-saving training for all types of runners over all distances.
Softness and responsiveness are also included in the React cushioning system package, which focuses on delivering a softer, springier and more stable underfoot feel. Thanks to a high level of shock absorption, these React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 have seen the light of day as the perfect one for the runner, regardless of their level, to maintain a steady pace, and also be able to minimize the risk of injury on every long distance run.
Optimal traction, but with nuances
Those different nuances are reflected in the different patterns of the rubber compounds they mount on their outsoles. In both cases, traction is more than optimal, but it is true that the combination of rubber and flex grooves are the resource used in the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 to ensure traction without adding weight to the shoe as a whole.
While, for their part, the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit have developed an outsole, based on runner feedback and data to feature a grofe-like pattern for that traction to be present in the spots where it is most needed.
Types of use
As you've seen, in terms of features, performance and design the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit and the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 have more commonalities than differences, and are Running shoes with very similar concepts. However, the type of use is what can mark the differences between them.
In other words, let's say that the softer and smoother feel with higher energy return offered by the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit make it a perfect option for those recovery runs, while that firmer and more stable feel of the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 are more oriented to easy long distance runs. In both cases, however, the idea is to train at easy paces to enjoy the pleasure of running in each session.
Which one do you choose: Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit or Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2?
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