I was excited to try the Nike Zoom Fly 6. The first couple of versions were awesome, but it has felt like Nike hasn’t really put too much effort into the shoe for the last few years. I mean, why would they? They have shoes that cost more and sell better, so it makes sense to put more effort into those. This year, the Nike Zoom Fly 6 has gotten a big update, and I didn’t want to like it, but it’s definitely one of my favorite trainers in the last few years.
Nike Zoom Fly 6 is a solid speed trainer built for tempo runs, fartlek sessions, and long-distance efforts. While it’s lighter and more versatile than previous versions thanks to the addition of real ZoomX foam, it lacks the punch and innovation seen in other speed trainers. If you’re looking for the fastest Nike trainer currently available, this is it, but it may not provide the “bounce” that maybe you’re looking for or get with other speed trainers. I think it’s fallen into the category of super trainer for me
Before trying the Nike Zoom Fly 6, I had a few questions:
- Is the Nike Zoom Fly 6 good? YES. While I don’t think it’s the best speedwork or race day shoe, I do think it’s become one of my favorite super trainers.
- Does the Nike Zoom Fly 6 fit true to size? YES, and maybe even a little bit wide.
Quick Facts
- Weight: 9.3 oz (264 g)
- Price: $170.00
- Heel Drop: 8 mm
Nike Zoom Fly 6 Fit
The Zoom Fly 6 sports a comfortable upper that strikes a balance between racing snugness and everyday trainer cushioning. Made from smooth, double-layer engineered mesh, the upper delivers solid lockdown without excessive stretch. I think the upper is kind of heavy, so it’s not the most breathable shoe I’ve tried. That’s an interesting quality, especially because you want a breathable speedwork shoe!
The tongue is flat and semi-gusseted, featuring wide wings to prevent shifting. Padding around the collar and heel enhances comfort, especially during longer runs. The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet, and for the most part, the Nike Zoom Fly 6 does just that. I haven’t really had any issues as far as fit is concerned.
In running shoes, I wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide and have found the size 11 to fit the best. I think it’s one of the better fitting running shoes right now.
Nike Zoom Fly 6 Ride
The midsole is where the magic happens, right? And Nike has made a magical update in the midsole to make the Zoom Fly a fun shoe again. The Zoom Fly 6 is the first in the line to include proper ZoomX foam, boosting energy return and lightening the ride. You’re not going to feel the “pop” that the Alphafly or Vaporfly has. This is due to the layer of SR-02 EVA foam beneath the ZoomX. This blend improves durability in the Zoom Fly 6 but doesn’t give it a pop (or cost) that the other Nike super shoes have.
The carbon Flyplate is more flexible than in previous models, which allows for smoother transitions but sacrifices some propulsion. While this flexibility works well at moderate speeds, it falls short for faster efforts, where a stiffer plate would enhance responsiveness.
Where does the Nike Zoom Fly 6 fit into my rotation? I thought it was going to be a speedwork shoe like the Saucony Endorphin Speed or ASICS Magic Speed, but I’ve found it more to be a super trainer. I like using the shoe when I want a faster run for the day but not necessarily a workout.
Outsole
The outsole mirrors the waffle design of the Pegasus series, providing reliable traction on dry and wet pavement. As far as Nike shoes go, the Nike Zoom Fly 6 has decent traction, and I haven’t slid around the desert too much. I wouldn’t take it on trails, and I wouldn’t use it on a super rainy or icy day.
As far as durability, the Nike Zoom Fly 6 is much more durable than its racing counterparts. I’ve put about 100 miles on the Zoom Fly 6 with no signs of them slowing down. I anticipate it will last around 300 miles.
How does the Nike Zoom Fly 6 compare to the Nike Vaporfly 3?
The Nike Vaporfly is a faster race-day shoe designed for setting PRs and running faster. It’s less durable and more expensive. The Zoom Fly 6 can complement the Vaporfly by being a long-run, fast shoe. The Zoom Fly is more durable and less expensive but isn’t as fast.
How does the Nike Zoom Fly 6 compare to the Nike Alphafly 3?
Similar to the Vaporfly, the Alphafly 3 is a faster and even softer race-day shoe. If you are looking for the fastest Nike shoe, it’s the Alphafly. But it’s far less durable than the Zoom Fly. The Zoom Fly is designed for training and some speed work during training, whereas the Alphafly is designed for race day and PRs.
Nike Zoom Fly 6 Conclusion
The Nike Zoom Fly 6 is a dependable, fast-paced trainer but lacks the speed of some of the plated speedwork options on the market. Make no mistake, it’s the best version of the Zoom Fly yet. For runners seeking a durable, everyday speed trainer, it’s worth considering—but don’t expect a thrilling ride.
Who Should Buy the Nike Zoom Fly 6?
- Runners looking for a durable, uptempo super trainer Nike trainer
- Fans of the Vaporfly who want a more affordable, longer-lasting option for training.
Who Should Not Buy the Nike Zoom Fly 6?
- Those seeking a plush, bouncy speed trainer. The Zoom Fly 6 leans firm, which might disappoint those craving a soft underfoot feel.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, New Balance 1080v13 Shoe Review , Newton Gravity 12, , ASICS Superblast
Speed Work: 361 Degrees Furious Future 1.5 Shoe Review Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Nike Alphafly 3
Long Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Degrees Eleos Shoe Review
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: 361 Degrees Furious Future 1.5 Shoe Review Hoka Cielo X1, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro ,Nike Vaporfly 3 , ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
What is your favorite running shoe?
What is your favorite speed work shoe?
I cannot remember the last time I owned a pair of Nikes. Nothing against the brand, but back in the day (e.g., my high school days), and maybe now, Nike running shoes were way more expensive compared to other brands.