Nike Zoom Fly 5

Zoom Fly 5

Nike’s Zoom Fly series was introduced in 2017 as a training counterpart to ultra-fast racing shoes like the Vaporfly. In 2022, the Zoom Fly 5 upgraded the line in almost every way, making it a powerful option for everyday exercise.

One of the key updates on the Nike Zoom Fly 5 is the ZoomX foam in the centre of its midsole. Soft, lightweight and responsive, it is surrounded by a layer of SR-02 EVA foam which is far more durable and allows the sole unit to perform the role of a training shoe as well as that of a racing model. Together, these two foams form a chunky midsole that delivers excellent shock absorption, thus protecting the foot over long distances.

Running through the centre of the midsole is a carbon-fibre plate. This brings added propulsion and helps stabilise the shoe, while its scooping shape rocks the foot forwards, creating a smooth transition. The outsole has been spread out to cover a larger surface area over the bottom of the shoe to present a wider base than before and thus deliver better balance and traction.

The upper of the Zoom Fly 5 has also been updated and is now made from a tough but lightweight mesh that is breathable and moulds well to the shape of the foot. When taken alongside the dynamic lacing system, the form-fitting design of the midfoot and the structured heel, this provides outstanding lockdown. Extra padding in key areas such as the tongue and heel create the type of comfort associated with a training shoe, making it perfectly adapted for daily use. 

Aesthetically, the Nike Zoom Fly 5 has a bold look thanks to its large sole unit and the exaggerated swoosh outline running along its lateral side all the way down to the forefoot. On the medial flank, there is a smaller swoosh and below it the text “Push Limits - Break Barriers”, which sums up the aim of Nike’s new generation of athletic footwear. The brand’s Move to Zero logo appears on the heel and the tongue, suggesting the use of recycled materials, which have been used to manufacture the shoe’s ZoomX foam for improved sustainability. On its launch in 2022, several eye-catching colourways were released, including a distinctive collaboration with Mexican designer Hola Lou that formed part of the brand’s Artist in Residence series.

With its blend of high-tech and hard-wearing features, the Zoom Fly 5 is both a great training shoe and a decent racing silhouette, helping runners to push their boundaries every day.