Ask ten marathoners what they race in and you will hear these two names on repeat. Both pack ZoomX foam and a full-length carbon plate, both have world records on their CV — but they are very different shoes on foot.
Nike Alphafly 3: maximum everything
The Alphafly 3 is the marathon weapon: a huge ZoomX stack, two visible Air Zoom pods under the forefoot and a wide, stable base. The ride is bouncy and propulsive — built to keep your legs fresh past kilometer 30. Kelvin Kiptum ran 2:00:35 in this platform. If your goal race is the marathon, this is the pick. Shop the Alphafly 3.
Nike Vaporfly 4: the scalpel
Lighter, lower and snappier, the Vaporfly 4 trades some cushioning for agility. It corners better, feels faster at 5K-to-half-marathon pace, and doubles as an interval shoe for track Tuesdays. If you race everything from the mile to the half, take the Vaporfly. Shop the Vaporfly 4.
The verdict
Marathon and long tempo work: Alphafly 3. Shorter races, intervals and runners under 70 kg who like a nimble ride: Vaporfly 4. Either way you are getting ZoomX and carbon, brand new in box with free worldwide shipping. See every race shoe in our Carbon Racers collection.