NIKE · Reviewed by SteP Tube · Published 2026-05-12
Based on a review by SteP Tube (accessed 2026-05-12).
Based on this review alone: buy it if you care about delivers ultra-high rebound from thick zoom x cushioning and prominent air units — just accept not suitable for beginners or those with insufficient leg strength, as it may not provide intended cushioning benefits.
The reviewer concludes that Nike has a particularly strong lineup of jogging shoes and offers a wide array of options for different needs. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's own foot characteristics, running style, and purpose to choose the right shoe, strongly recommending an in-store fitting to compare models directly.
This video from SteP Tube features a staff member from SteP Sports Mizuho introducing and explaining various Nike running shoe models available at their store. The review covers shoes ranging from high-performance racing flats to versatile daily trainers and soft jogging shoes, detailing their characteristics and recommended uses.
This shoe is a premium racing option best suited for experienced runners and elite athletes due to its demanding characteristics. It offers ultra-high rebound from its thick ZOOM X and air units, effectively absorbing shock for those with strong leg power and proper form. However, amateur runners or those with lighter weight and less developed leg strength might find it overly reactive without sufficient cushioning benefits. If you are an elite runner or highly experienced marathoner aiming for competitive races and have strong leg power, this shoe is an excellent choice for its high-performance features. If you are a beginner or a casual runner without sufficient leg strength to fully utilize its technology, you should look for more forgiving options.
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reviewer_claimpositivet=02:18–02:51
The AIR ZOOM ALPHAFLY NEXT% 3 is described as a pure race shoe, ideal for ekiden and marathons. It features visible Air Zoom units and a thick stack of ZoomX foam, making it an ultra-high rebound shoe.
comparisonneutralt=03:00–03:40
The reviewer notes that students and those running shorter distances tend to prefer the Vaporfly, while for full marathons, especially for sub-3-hour runners, the Alphafly's usage significantly increases, with top athletes often opting for Alphafly in longer races due to its cushioning.
reviewer_claimmixedt=03:40–04:32
The Alphafly's cushion absorbs impact and provides rebound if the runner has sufficient leg strength to stabilize the foot and prevent wobbling. However, without adequate leg strength or for lighter runners, it might feel like just a high-rebound material without cushioning benefits.
reviewer_claimpositivet=04:59–05:32
The Vaporfly is described as a classic, ultra-standard thick-soled carbon plate shoe. It's not excessively thick, allowing for good control, and is easy to handle on courses with inclines and declines, making it a versatile racing shoe for all distances.
reviewer_claimpositivet=06:21–07:22
The Streakfly is highlighted for its extreme lightness. While positioned as a race shoe, it is often sold for training, especially popular for track season practice due to its feel being similar to spikes.
reviewer_claimpositivet=08:34–09:30
The ZOOMFLY 6 also uses ZoomX, but its hardness is different, being less soft than Alphafly/Vaporfly while still providing good rebound. It features a carbon plate and is recommended for road pace running or race pace simulations.
reviewer_claimpositivet=09:59–10:53
The PEGASUS PLUS is praised as the most balanced shoe among those introduced, capable of handling any type of training. It's considered an essential, versatile shoe, although its price of 22,000 yen is noted.
reviewer_claimpositivet=11:08–12:00
The PEGASUS 42 is the newest updated model, providing more speed and propulsion compared to previous Pegasus versions, which were typically flatter and firmer. It now offers broader usability, aligning somewhat with the Pegasus PLUS.
reviewer_claimpositivet=12:12–13:40
The RIVAL FLY 6 (reviewer states 6, but description has 4) is highlighted for its excellent cost performance, offering specs that are 'more than the price.' It provides a comfortable rebound and cushioning, surpassing other budget-friendly shoes from competitors.
reviewer_claimpositivet=14:14–14:55
The VOMERO PLUS, with its thick sole and ZoomX, is described as very fluffy and soft, making jogging enjoyable. It is ideal for those who prefer a soft, bouncy feel with good thickness for their easy runs.
reviewer_claimpositivet=15:10–16:03
The STRUCTURE PLUS features significant inner support, ensuring exceptional stability upon landing. It is very firm compared to the Vomero PLUS but includes ZoomX for a slight bounce, making it a stable cushioning shoe.
expert_opinionpositivet=16:40–17:34
The reviewer personally prefers the VOMERO 18 as his favorite jogging shoe. It combines ZoomX with ReactX for a stable ride without excessive rebound, offering a simple and natural running feel, making it top-notch for jogging.
reviewer_claimpositivet=17:51–18:29
The standard ZOOM STRUCTURE uses ReactX and is noted for its firmness, providing a secure, fixed feeling upon landing. It's highly recommended for those who dislike soft shoes and want to prevent joint injuries or shin splints.
reviewer_claimpositivet=18:49–19:50
The PEGASUS PREMIUM is often purchased for daily wear due to its stylish and fashionable design, allowing it to be worn casually and also for running. The reviewer highlights a new colorway as his favorite for its simple yet cool design.
reviewer_claimpositivet=20:01–21:18
The VOMERO PREMIUM is extremely thick, with a 5cm sole that creates a sensation of walking 'on the shoe' rather than the ground, changing one's eye-level. It's recommended for recovery jogs, fun runs, or daily wear for its fashionable appeal and height-increasing effect.
The Alphafly NEXT% 3 is presented as a dedicated race shoe with ultra-high rebound and thick ZoomX, making it ideal for marathons and ekiden, especially for faster runners. The Vaporfly NEXT% 4 is also a versatile racing shoe suitable for various distances and courses. For full marathons, top athletes often prefer the Alphafly due to its cushioning, while Vaporfly is popular for shorter distances or students.
The Pegasus PLUS is described as the most balanced shoe in the lineup, capable of handling any type of training. It's considered an essential, versatile shoe for everyday runs. However, its price of 22,000 yen is noted as potentially high for a dedicated training shoe.
The Streakfly, while a race shoe, is frequently sold for training, especially during track season. Its extremely lightweight nature and close feel to track spikes make it an excellent choice for runners who want to train on roads with a similar sensation to their track spikes.
The Rival Fly 6 is praised for its excellent cost performance, with the reviewer stating its specs are 'more than the price.' It provides noticeable rebound and cushioning, making it a superior option compared to other budget-friendly shoes from competitors. It's recommended for new runners and experienced athletes alike.
For a very soft and fluffy jogging experience, the Vomero PLUS is highly recommended due to its thick ZoomX sole. It makes jogging more enjoyable with a soft, bouncy feel. The Vomero 18, which is the reviewer's personal favorite, also offers stability with a mix of ZoomX and ReactX, providing a natural and cushioned ride without being overly bouncy.
The Structure PLUS features significant inner support for exceptional stability upon landing, preventing pronation. The standard Structure, utilizing ReactX, is noted for its firmness and fixed feel, making it suitable for runners who dislike soft shoes and want to prevent joint injuries or shin splints. Both are recommended for those with weak ankles or a history of injuries.
The Pegasus Premium is often purchased for daily wear, lauded for its fashionable design that allows it to transition seamlessly from casual outfits to running. Similarly, the Vomero Premium, with its extremely thick 5cm sole, is noted for its fashionable appeal and ability to make the wearer appear taller, making it suitable for daily use in addition to recovery jogs.
85/100 source quality
SteP Sports Mizuho staff member Katagiri presents an extensive overview of Nike running shoes, following the success of a similar adidas video. He systematically introduces each model, starting with top-tier race shoes like the Alphafly and Vaporfly, then moving through training-focused models such as the Streakfly, Zoom Fly, Pegasus, and finally comfort-oriented jogging shoes like the Vomero and Structure. Katagiri provides detailed insights into the performance, technology, and ideal usage scenarios for each shoe, helping runners understand which model best suits their training goals and preferences.
Full transcript is not redistributed here to respect the original creator’s rights.
This page converts SteP Tube's review of the NIKE AIR ZOOM ALPHAFLY NEXT% 3 into structured evidence — timestamped claims, pros & cons, and buyer questions. It is not the original review and does not replace watching or reading the full source.