A Good Racing Shoe for Short to Mid Distance if You Like the Air Max Feel
If you’re not gifted with genetics like myself, to be an efficient runner, you would know that racing in Nike shoes isn’t for everyone. Pronation and stability concerns aren’t typically addressed by the Nike running shoe line and these are no different. It took me nearly a decade before I had developed enough experience and changes in my running technique to consider racing in a pair of Nikes. Even then, I have not gone past a 10K. Otherwise, my risk for injury increases significantly. That said, I’ve run my fastest 5 and 10Ks in a pair of regular Nike Flyknit Racers. You can definitely feel the inspiration in these Air Max/Flyknit hybrid versions.First off is obviously the flyknit upper which not only makes them super breathable, it’s also really light. Nike ... MoreIf you’re not gifted with genetics like myself, to be an efficient runner, you would know that racing in Nike shoes isn’t for everyone. Pronation and stability concerns aren’t typically addressed by the Nike running shoe line and these are no different. It took me nearly a decade before I had developed enough experience and changes in my running technique to consider racing in a pair of Nikes. Even then, I have not gone past a 10K. Otherwise, my risk for injury increases significantly. That said, I’ve run my fastest 5 and 10Ks in a pair of regular Nike Flyknit Racers. You can definitely feel the inspiration in these Air Max/Flyknit hybrid versions.First off is obviously the flyknit upper which not only makes them super breathable, it’s also really light. Nike pioneered the “sock-like-fit-and-feel” show and it gets better with every iteration. It molds to the shape of your foot. The caveat has always been that they don’t give you much insulation in the late fall and winter months. The fit is surprisingly roomier than other flyknit models where I usually have to go half size bigger, not with these.As for the looks, the color combination of Electric/Volt Yellow, Black and White is striking but not so unconventional to be off putting. You won’t have to worry about people looking at your feet and giving you weird looks. I’ve always been a fan of the Air Max look. There’s something about seeing the transparent air filled compartments that, for the lack-of-a-better-word-despite-being-cliche, is iconic to the Nike brand. But as much as I like the look of Air Max, I haven’t always been a fan of the feel. Which brings me to my next point.Maybe I’m in the minority but I always expect the feel of Air Max shoes to be more comfortable than they actually are. I imagined it to feel like walking on soft pillowy clouds but they’re a lot stiffer than they appear to be. It makes sense though for the sake of durability, it’s just a matter of perception and reality. That said, these shoes have a noticeable bounce if you are a heal striker, more so than other Air Max shoes. This is a good thing in a racing shoe in terms of energy returns. It is something to get used to if you’re used to traditional foam support of other running shoe brands. It took me around six easy 10K runs to really get a feel and get comfortable with running in these shoes. I wouldn’t go as far as to say that I feel confident enough to run a race and go for a new PR in these. Personally, I prefer to feel the more natural feel of traditional foam/rubber soles where I can feel the contact of the road without the extra bounciness. I’m also not super confident that the treads on the bottom have good enough grip in wet conditions especially if you are going for fast 5K or 10K.Racing aside, these make great casual walking shoes and for running on the treadmill at the gym. I’m always hesitant to wear running shoes for weight lifting as that would prematurely degrade their cushioning and mileage. I’d leave that to your own personal discretion. Otherwise, there’s a lot to like about the Air Max Flyknit Racers. It really just boils down to how well the feel and support of the Air Max soles matches your running style.... Show more
Michael
originally posted on store.nike.com
AIR MAX FLYKNIT RACER
The Nike Air Max line is simply incomparable. With its flawless designs, innovative color ways, and ability to create completely authentic and groundbreaking shoes, it’s easy to see why there is no greater line of shoes in the history of athletic footwear than the Nike Air Max. And with the fly knit racer, Nike has once again done the improbable and incorporated another great line with the fly knit to create another incredible shoe. From its featherweight upper, that incorporates a webbing look that overlaps itself seamlessly, to the iconic bubble heel, there is absolutely nothing to not love about the design of this shoe. Slipping them on for the first time and walking around, I felt no instance of discomfort or concern that it might be too light weight. It felt as ... MoreThe Nike Air Max line is simply incomparable. With its flawless designs, innovative color ways, and ability to create completely authentic and groundbreaking shoes, it’s easy to see why there is no greater line of shoes in the history of athletic footwear than the Nike Air Max. And with the fly knit racer, Nike has once again done the improbable and incorporated another great line with the fly knit to create another incredible shoe. From its featherweight upper, that incorporates a webbing look that overlaps itself seamlessly, to the iconic bubble heel, there is absolutely nothing to not love about the design of this shoe. Slipping them on for the first time and walking around, I felt no instance of discomfort or concern that it might be too light weight. It felt as if it formed to my foot and I was practically wearing nothing. Of course all I had to do was look down and stare in wonder at the striking volt color with its inclusion of sequoia black and the classic white midsole, and know that these shoes were made to be shown off. There is nothing I would change about them, and will only be waiting with anticipation on not only more color ways, but what else the Air Max line creates next!... Show more
Sean
originally posted on store.nike.com
A modern shoe with nods to Nike history
I was intrigued by this shoe from the first time I saw it. It’s not a performance running shoe but it has an upper much like the vaunted Flyknit Racer from the early 2010, plus the cantilevered air bag we saw in the Air Max Pre-day.The generous ventilation of the upper is appreciated on hot days, and while the midsole isn’t cushioned like a modern running shoe, it is “all-day” supportive.The tongue is quite wide and thin, so it can take a little fiddling to position it when you put the shoes on.I really like this volt/black colorway, especially the way the outer Swoosh is black on yellow and the inner Swoosh is white on black. The subtle white flecks on the waffle style outsole add a little visual interest too. The lace eyelets are on a leatherette panel which ... MoreI was intrigued by this shoe from the first time I saw it. It’s not a performance running shoe but it has an upper much like the vaunted Flyknit Racer from the early 2010, plus the cantilevered air bag we saw in the Air Max Pre-day.The generous ventilation of the upper is appreciated on hot days, and while the midsole isn’t cushioned like a modern running shoe, it is “all-day” supportive.The tongue is quite wide and thin, so it can take a little fiddling to position it when you put the shoes on.I really like this volt/black colorway, especially the way the outer Swoosh is black on yellow and the inner Swoosh is white on black. The subtle white flecks on the waffle style outsole add a little visual interest too. The lace eyelets are on a leatherette panel which isn’t quite as slick as the Flywire setup on the original Flyknit Racer but it may prove more durable.The fit is typical modern Nike, I wear an 11.5 and for reference, I also wear an 11.5 in the Infinity and Invincible Run and a 12 in the Air Max 90 and Jordan 5. It’s not a wide shoe but it’s quite accommodating of my higher volume foot because of the knit upper.Quality is good with no extra glue or threads I noticed.On the whole, it’s a well executed combination of elements from throughout Nike’s history and a fun and fresh option for an everyday casual shoe.... Show more
Uri
originally posted on store.nike.com
Breathable, comfortable running shoe perfect for summer
Got these for my husband and immediately loved them out of the box—the color, the style, the material is all on point.First, the fit: True to size overall; hubby has wide, flat feet that are very difficult to fit and he’s very particular about his footwear. The flyknit material is light, comfortable, and flexible and fit to the width of his foot amazingly well (often the upper will cut in on his foot but there was zero issue with that in these).The construction and design of the shoe is not only really visually appealing but also super comfortable and well thought out for a running shoe (especially in summer). The knit upper is breathable and comfortable, the sole providing enough cushion for comfort but not too much to make it heavy or awkward. Love the neon ... MoreGot these for my husband and immediately loved them out of the box—the color, the style, the material is all on point.First, the fit: True to size overall; hubby has wide, flat feet that are very difficult to fit and he’s very particular about his footwear. The flyknit material is light, comfortable, and flexible and fit to the width of his foot amazingly well (often the upper will cut in on his foot but there was zero issue with that in these).The construction and design of the shoe is not only really visually appealing but also super comfortable and well thought out for a running shoe (especially in summer). The knit upper is breathable and comfortable, the sole providing enough cushion for comfort but not too much to make it heavy or awkward. Love the neon yellow/green with the black contrast—not something my husband would usually go for but he actually was a big fan and will wear them out walking around in addition to running/exercising.... Show more
Corinne
originally posted on store.nike.com
Crazy Design Details. Even Crazier Comfort
WOW. I found these shoes to be incredibly comfortable, like shockingly comfortable.I have narrow feet, so I really enjoyed that the Flyknit upper is super lightweight and is able to form fit to your feet depending on how tight you want to tie them. Every time I wore these the comfort of them stood out. The "bubble" comfort padding in the heals were heaven.The design of these shoes also stood out to me. The Flyknit has a ton of varying patterns and styles across the front and sides of the shoe. I have never seen a shoe that had so many varying technique and was really impressed by how complex they were. I also enjoyed that the inside of the shoes had a different reversed out design from the outsides as well. For the shoes only being three colors (black, white, and ... MoreWOW. I found these shoes to be incredibly comfortable, like shockingly comfortable.I have narrow feet, so I really enjoyed that the Flyknit upper is super lightweight and is able to form fit to your feet depending on how tight you want to tie them. Every time I wore these the comfort of them stood out. The "bubble" comfort padding in the heals were heaven.The design of these shoes also stood out to me. The Flyknit has a ton of varying patterns and styles across the front and sides of the shoe. I have never seen a shoe that had so many varying technique and was really impressed by how complex they were. I also enjoyed that the inside of the shoes had a different reversed out design from the outsides as well. For the shoes only being three colors (black, white, and neon yellow) it was crazy how every side of these shoes were able to do something different and interesting.The fabric of the shoes is the always impressive Flyknit. I have been a fan of Flyknit from as long as I can remember because it is so lightweight. On this shoe the Flyknit is the entire top and then the bottom are this really sturdy rubber that work together to be really comfortable. As much as I love Flyknit shoes, there is always the worry that they can rip or get dirty which is sometimes hard to clean in my experience. But the pros always outweigh the cons for me when it comes to Flyknit.My favorite thing about the shoes is how comfortable they are. A close second is how epic the woven designs of the shoes are.If I were to change one thing it would be the color. It is BRIGHT like neon highlighter bright. I love bright in your face your colors for athletic gear I work out or play in but for casual wear I like more subtle colors. I love the shoes but would probably get them in a different color that isn’t so loud. When I rock them I like to wear them with a very simple and dark colored outfit so they can pop and not compete with anything too busy.Overall, these shoes rock. I think anyone that tries them on will be blow away with how comfortable they are.... Show more
Zach
originally posted on store.nike.com
Great for running, with a few disappointments in construction.
If you like neon shoes (the ones I have are VERY bright, as you can see) and do a lot of forward motion or basic running, these Nike Air Max Flyknit Racers are a great option! I’m in my mid-30’s with a shoe size of 11.5. I felt that these shoes fit well (I ordered an 11.5, which is the same as my regular shoe size).The knit fabric of the shoes is light and breathable, but did take a little getting used to as it’s very unique compared to other shoes. It felt delicate or like it could be easily frayed or torn. I have not had any issues with wearing, but I am probably being a little more cautious with these shoes than I would be if the fabric was different.I wore these Air Max Flyknit Racers to the gym. I liked the feel of them for running; sometimes the wrong ... MoreIf you like neon shoes (the ones I have are VERY bright, as you can see) and do a lot of forward motion or basic running, these Nike Air Max Flyknit Racers are a great option! I’m in my mid-30’s with a shoe size of 11.5. I felt that these shoes fit well (I ordered an 11.5, which is the same as my regular shoe size).The knit fabric of the shoes is light and breathable, but did take a little getting used to as it’s very unique compared to other shoes. It felt delicate or like it could be easily frayed or torn. I have not had any issues with wearing, but I am probably being a little more cautious with these shoes than I would be if the fabric was different.I wore these Air Max Flyknit Racers to the gym. I liked the feel of them for running; sometimes the wrong shoes make you feel like you’re running with ankle weights! These shoes feel incredibly lightweight. I did have to get used to the unique heel construction, as it felt squishy to me. I was very concerned about lateral movement while wearing these shoes, as I nearly rolled my ankle a few times. The shoe flexes due to the heel, which can be odd if you are used to a different style of shoe.If I could change anything about these Air Max Flyknit Racer shoes, I would change the fabric and the heel. For the retail cost of these shoes, I would be unhappy if normal use caused damage. I would like the fabric to feel sturdier! I would also like the heel to be less spongy and allow for lateral movement (like getting on/off gym equipment) as well as your typical running.If you just want to run, and you want a shoe that will flex with your foot, this is a great option for you! Unfortunately, it isn’t what I’m really looking for in a shoe. I’ll continue to wear these to the gym, and update my review after I’ve worn them a bit more.... Show more
Danielle
originally posted on store.nike.com
Not just for running - great for everything
If anyone can give you an honest opinion about a pair of shoes, it’s a high school PE teacher. I’m on my feet and running around with students all day long. I am also a fitness fanatic and workout in a variety of weight lifting, cardio, cross training, and athletic competitions every day. Having quality and comfortable shoes is critical.I’ll be honest, when I saw the air max flyknit racer shoe, I thought they looked ridiculous. But once I put them on, they were incredibly comfortable and actually looked great! Best of all, the shoe’s design is so breathable and lightweight. And the more I walked around in them, the more I even liked the design/look of the shoes.These shoes alleviated a lot of pain I often get in my knee when running. They are comfortable and ... MoreIf anyone can give you an honest opinion about a pair of shoes, it’s a high school PE teacher. I’m on my feet and running around with students all day long. I am also a fitness fanatic and workout in a variety of weight lifting, cardio, cross training, and athletic competitions every day. Having quality and comfortable shoes is critical.I’ll be honest, when I saw the air max flyknit racer shoe, I thought they looked ridiculous. But once I put them on, they were incredibly comfortable and actually looked great! Best of all, the shoe’s design is so breathable and lightweight. And the more I walked around in them, the more I even liked the design/look of the shoes.These shoes alleviated a lot of pain I often get in my knee when running. They are comfortable and have a lot of support. The air pocket in the sole of the shoe makes all the difference. I felt more confident Running and jumping as well as pivoting and doing cross training exercises that required me to make quick changes in direction.The shoes - although made for running - are also comfortable enough to walk around in, teaching all day. Not many shoes are comfortable enough for working out and teaching/standing. These shoes are!The only downside I would say is the tongue of the shoe rides up a bit higher than I liked and felt/looked awkward. Everything else about the shoes I would recommend- 4.5 stars ⭐️... Show more
Katie
originally posted on store.nike.com
Perfect Summer Sneakers
Finding the right summer sneaker was always a challenge. You want something with great cushion, good traction, form fitting over foot and still keeps your foot cool on those hot summer days. The Nike Air Max Flyknit Racer answered the call.My son needed a sneaker for all his spring/summer adventures - mountain biking, trail walking, backyard badminton and corn-hole. A sneaker where if it got wet – crazy adventures in the stream on a whim - he could still continue on with his day. These sneakers are the ones. From the moment they arrived home, my son has not taken them off. He is currently wearing them with socks but has informed me come hot summer time, it’s no socks sneaker time. I do wonder how I get the stink out since I don't think I can put them in the ... MoreFinding the right summer sneaker was always a challenge. You want something with great cushion, good traction, form fitting over foot and still keeps your foot cool on those hot summer days. The Nike Air Max Flyknit Racer answered the call.My son needed a sneaker for all his spring/summer adventures - mountain biking, trail walking, backyard badminton and corn-hole. A sneaker where if it got wet – crazy adventures in the stream on a whim - he could still continue on with his day. These sneakers are the ones. From the moment they arrived home, my son has not taken them off. He is currently wearing them with socks but has informed me come hot summer time, it’s no socks sneaker time. I do wonder how I get the stink out since I don't think I can put them in the washing machine due to Nike Revolutionary Air Technology.Fit wise, I would say they run a bit big. My son wears a 9. These shoes are a 9 and there is still a thumb width of space from his big toe. His feet are average width and the shoe forms around his foot just fine. He has the Volt color. At first, it was a little too bold for him but after positive comments from his friends, he loves the sporty color.A major selling point of this sneaker, for both my son and I, was the use of recycled materials from "from post-consumer and/or post-manufactured waste". He told everyone during a science class on renewable and non-renewable resources, that he was wearing Nike made out of recycled material. It opened up a class discussion about shoes material and the future.For any outdoor person who wants a lightweight summer sneaker, The Nike Air Max Flyknit Racer is the go-to summer sneaker. Mom Approved.... Show more
Sarah
originally posted on store.nike.com
Some of the most lightweight shoes I ever have
Hello I got this air max Flyknit racer and I'm really impressed about how comfortable they are. I can walk on it all day with out getting tired the weight on it is really minimum, and the upper material is very breathable your feet are not going to get hot at all especially now that summer is coming. They have a few different colors, from dark ones to really bright so there's a lot of options to choose from which I really appreciate. The fit is some of the things that you have to keep on mind because I feel like they run a little big but all depends how you like your shoes I ordered an 8.5 which is my true to size and when I wear them there's still room in front of my toes, so if you want a snug fit you might have to go down half a size, the ankle area is kinda ... MoreHello I got this air max Flyknit racer and I'm really impressed about how comfortable they are. I can walk on it all day with out getting tired the weight on it is really minimum, and the upper material is very breathable your feet are not going to get hot at all especially now that summer is coming. They have a few different colors, from dark ones to really bright so there's a lot of options to choose from which I really appreciate. The fit is some of the things that you have to keep on mind because I feel like they run a little big but all depends how you like your shoes I ordered an 8.5 which is my true to size and when I wear them there's still room in front of my toes, so if you want a snug fit you might have to go down half a size, the ankle area is kinda small to, I wish it was a little bit taller that might be a lot more comfortable than what already is. I'm also think that they should have kept the style of the side panels going all the way to the front, they would definitely look a lot more better and cleaner, I really don't like the pattern they choose on the front on the toe area that kinda takes away style of a very nice shoe. Other than that it's a nice comfortable shoe that could be better.... Show more
Hilario
originally posted on store.nike.com
These feel great
- fit and feelFits true to size. I think I could have gone half a size down, but it’s always a gamble with my size 12-13. Once I tightened the laces, the fit was pretty solid, but not as snug as I usually prefer. Felt good on-foot out of the box and didn’t really need much break-in time, and the cushioning is pretty bouncy in the forefoot and a bit more pillowy in the heel’s air max unit.- designPretty simple overall, mostly Flyknit, no real unnecessary frills . All business. The edges of the tongue closer to the toe/mid foot were a little tricky because they would roll up when I put the shoe on, so I had to stick my fingers in there to flatten them out. Once I did that, they were fine. The laces also felt a bit too short for my liking but that also was better ... More- fit and feelFits true to size. I think I could have gone half a size down, but it’s always a gamble with my size 12-13. Once I tightened the laces, the fit was pretty solid, but not as snug as I usually prefer. Felt good on-foot out of the box and didn’t really need much break-in time, and the cushioning is pretty bouncy in the forefoot and a bit more pillowy in the heel’s air max unit.- designPretty simple overall, mostly Flyknit, no real unnecessary frills . All business. The edges of the tongue closer to the toe/mid foot were a little tricky because they would roll up when I put the shoe on, so I had to stick my fingers in there to flatten them out. Once I did that, they were fine. The laces also felt a bit too short for my liking but that also was better once I choked them up a bit.- MaterialsI’m a fan of Flyknit for its breathability and strength, and there was no real need for break-in time. The tongue is stretchy and I didn’t feel uncomfortable with the lace pressure. My only gripe is that the synthetic leather eyestay strip feels a bit cheap and flimsy, but it probably won’t actually be a problem in the long run (no pun intended).- NotesI think what I liked most was the cushioning. I love a bouncy air unit and often while just standing around, I’ll just squish and put pressure on the air units to feel them underfoot. The upper is going to be great in hot weather. I’m a little worried about the one cutout in the sole getting pebbles in it, but so far that hasn’t happened.... Show more
Marquith
originally posted on store.nike.com