The Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 feels like a shoe built first and foremost for protection and long-term comfort. The amount of React foam underfoot is immediately noticeable. It’s thick, forgiving, and designed to keep impact well away from my joints. Even with that generous midsole, the shoe doesn’t feel clumsy or overly heavy, which surprised me given how substantial it looks on paper. It’s clearly not aimed at race-day speed, but for steady mileage and injury-conscious training, it feels purpose-built.
On longer runs, the React foam really comes into its own. It feels softer and smoother than older Nike foams like Cushlon, offering a cushioned ride that still maintains stability as fatigue sets in. My legs feel fresher late in the run, and the shoe does a good job of keeping my stride consistent without forcing aggressive correction. It’s the kind of cushioning that prioritizes comfort and durability over snap or explosiveness.
Despite the tall stack, the Infinity Run Flyknit 2 doesn’t completely disconnect me from the ground. There’s still enough feedback to keep the ride feeling controlled rather than marshmallow-soft. Transitions feel smooth, and the platform stays stable even when my form starts to fade. For me, this shoe makes the most sense as a high-mileage daily trainer, one I’d trust for long runs, recovery days, and consistent training when staying healthy matters more than chasing pace.
The React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 feels smooth and efficient underfoot, thanks to its roughly 8–9 mm heel-to-toe drop and a well-shaped rocker that naturally rolls my stride forward. On runs, the transition feels controlled and almost automatic, especially compared to more basic trainers in Nike’s lineup. The ride comes across as more refined and purposeful, making it clear this shoe is built for consistent training rather than casual wear.
When I compare it to something like the Winflo, the difference in intent is obvious. The Winflo feels fine for walking or light use, but once I’m running regularly, the Infinity 2 feels more dialed in, with a design that better supports steady pacing and longer efforts. Visually and on-foot, it leans more toward a serious daily trainer than a hybrid walking shoe, which I appreciate when I’m logging real miles.
Fit-wise, I found the toe box roomy enough for natural toe splay, which is a plus for wider feet. That said, the extended heel clip is noticeable, and while some runners find it intrusive, I actually like the added support it provides. It occasionally nudges my foot back into alignment, but for me, that contributes to a more secure and stable ride rather than feeling restrictive.
The heel clip on the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 plays a major role in how stable the shoe feels. It’s firm and consistent, limiting side-to-side movement and keeping my ankle well supported throughout the run. The effect is similar to guided stability systems I’ve used before, and on longer runs, I noticed my knees and hips stayed surprisingly calm, with no lingering aches or odd twinges afterward. That kind of quiet, uneventful recovery is a big plus.
That said, the shoe seems better suited to neutral runners and supinators than to overpronators like me. While the heel and base provide good stability, I do find myself wishing for a bit more arch support or midfoot structure. It feels secure, but not quite as supportive through the arch as I’d want for daily use. The Infinity Run Flyknit 2 also feels most at home on pavement rather than the track, where its geometry and cushioning are better appreciated.
The wide base adds another layer of stability, especially when my form starts to fade late in a run. Underfoot, the React outsole pattern contributes to a softer, cushioned feel, while the added rubber improves traction on wet roads. I’ve found grip to be reliable in damp conditions, which helps when footing starts to feel uncertain. One concern I do have is midfoot durability. The exposed foam could use more protection, especially if you plan to push this shoe toward higher mileage.
The Flyknit upper rounds out the experience with a snug, breathable fit that feels comfortable without being restrictive. The Flywire cables work well with the lacing system to keep my foot locked in, offering security without excessive pressure. Padding in the forefoot is minimal, though, so I definitely prefer wearing proper socks to avoid irritation on longer runs. Overall, the upper feels well executed, supportive where it needs to be, and consistent with the shoe’s focus on stable, high-mileage training.
The Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 works well across a wide range of runs, from relaxed shakeouts to long, steady mileage days. The cushioning and impact protection do a great job of keeping my legs feeling fresh, even when the miles add up. It can handle a quicker pace when needed, but it’s clear this isn’t a shoe built for chasing personal records, especially without the extra snap you’d get from a forefoot air unit.
Where the experience falters slightly is the tongue. On my first wear, it immediately stood out as shorter and more delicate than expected, sitting low under the laces and offering very little to grab onto. I found myself hesitant to adjust it, worried it might tear if I pulled too hard, which isn’t something I usually think about with a running shoe.
Once everything is set, the tongue is comfortable enough underfoot and doesn’t cause pressure issues, but its design feels unnecessarily limiting. A bit more length or structure would make it easier to adjust and inspire more confidence during daily use. It’s a small detail, but one that feels out of place on an otherwise well-thought-out, high-mileage trainer.
Final Thoughts on the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2
The Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 feels like a shoe designed to protect the legs first and foremost. The generous amount of React foam underfoot delivers a high level of cushioning and impact protection, and I can feel how it helps keep my stride consistent and my joints calmer over longer runs. The ride is smooth and stable, with enough energy return to keep things moving without ever feeling harsh or unstable, which makes it especially appealing when I’m focused on staying healthy through high-mileage training.
What ties it together for me is how durable and comfortable the shoe feels over time. The React foam holds its shape well, even after repeated runs, and the Flyknit upper does a solid job of keeping airflow steady when temperatures rise. It’s not a shoe I reach for when speed is the priority, but when I want a reliable, protective trainer that helps reduce wear and tear on my body, the Infinity Run Flyknit 2 delivers exactly that.
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 FAQs
What is so special about Nike React?
The React foam cushioning is Nike’s longest-lasting foam. It is soft and springy yet supportive and stable. The Nike shoes with React foam usually have a thicker midsole, ideal for even heavier runners. They provide a consistent cushion mile after mile. There is much cushioning in this foam, and it has a good energy return to make your stride easier.
What type of shoe is the Nike Infinity React?
Nike Infinity React is a supportive, neutral running shoe. It is the shoe with the most React foam cushioning. It excels on easy runs but is also comfortable at faster paces. Nike also recommends this shoe for walking.
Is Infinity React good for flat feet?
Yes, Infinity React is good for flat feet. Nike recommends the React foam for overpronation because it provides specific cushioning technology that is soft, springy, and stable. The Infinity React also has a heel clip, which helps secure the rear foot so your ankles won’t have extra movements while running.
Are Nike Reacts comfortable?
Yes. Nike React shoes are comfortable even for heavier runners. They usually have thicker midsoles with remarkable cushioning and shock absorption built for easy runs. But these shoes are not slow and could adjust to your speed.
What is the main purpose of a rocker Nike shoes?
A rocker Nike shoe offers three things to your stride: (1) It offers flexibility at toe-off. (2) It provides a smooth transition from heel to toe to make you run more efficiently. (3) It cushions the foot when it hits the ground.
Are Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit good for wide feet?
Yes. The React Infinity Run can fit regular-sized feet up to wide feet. It also has a roomy toe box with excellent cushioning under the forefoot. However, if you have super-wide feet, you may struggle in the hindfoot because of the heel clip that seems to set the width of the shoe. But the heel clip will somehow adjust to the width of your foot.
(This content was created with the help of AI.)
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