Nike React Infinity Run 3 Review: A Stable Daily Trainer for Easy Miles

Introduction

The Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 is an updated version of Nike’s popular daily running shoe, and it sticks closely to the formula of previous versions. Priced at £145 or $160, it weighs 310 g (10.9 oz) for men in a size 9, with an 8 mm drop. The idea here is simple: a protective, comfortable shoe for ticking off easy miles, with more stability than most neutral trainers.

Across testing, the verdict was consistent. This is a solid, honest shoe that does a clear job well. It is not going to set the world alight, but if you want one dependable shoe for racking up base miles, it fits that role very nicely.

Who this shoe is for

This is a shoe for runners who want one versatile option for the bulk of their training. It suits people who mostly run easy and steady, from short recovery efforts up to around 15K, and it works well for runners deep into marathon training who want something protective for tired legs.

It also makes sense if you want a bit of extra confidence when you are feeling slight niggles. The wide midsole base and supportive structure give it more stability than many neutral shoes, without feeling like a proper stability shoe. Some runners even use it up to marathon distance for that reason.

Main strengths

The midsole is made from Nike’s React foam, which offers a balanced ride that feels cushioned without being noticeably soft or bouncy. A big rocker shape promotes a smooth rolling motion through foot strike, and the wide base adds stability. Compared to the Infinity Run 2, this version feels a touch softer, with an upper that is a little less rigid and more elasticated.

The upper is a stretchy Flyknit that feels roomy and breathable while still holding the foot securely. Fit is true to size for multiple testers, and cushioning around the heel, ankle, and padded tongue makes it a very comfortable shoe to wear. The tongue also feels sturdier than the version that had a habit of ripping on the Infinity Run 2.

Grip is another strong point. Even though there is not a huge amount of outsole rubber, the shoe grips well in the rain and on varied surfaces, and React foam tends to be more durable than many delicate foams. This is a shoe that should last a while.

Things to consider before buying

The ride is not the most exciting. React foam here is responsive rather than bouncy, and it can feel firm at first before the shoe breaks in over a few miles. If you want a really plush, soft shoe, the Nike Invincible is the better pick, though it is less stable.

Price is the other consideration. At full RRP it feels overpriced, especially because not much has changed from the Infinity Run 2 apart from the upper. If you can find the previous version in a sale, that is a sensible way to save money, and this model also tends to appear in Nike sales throughout the year anyway. Within Nike’s own range, the Pegasus 39 is arguably the better value option: it has a React midsole, no rocker, a slightly softer and lighter feel, and a thick, long-lasting outsole that handles light trails too.

Buying advice

The React Infinity Run 3 is best thought of as a stable, neutral daily trainer for easy and base miles. It has a touch of versatility and can pick up the pace a little, but there are better shoes for tempo sessions. If your focus is distance rather than speed, and you want a sturdy shoe you can use for most of your running, it is a good honest option.

If you are comparing alternatives, the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V11 or V12 is a very similar one-shoe-for-everything pick with a slightly firmer midsole and a nicer feel at speed. The Saucony Ride 15, with its recently softened midsole, handles faster running and tempo training better than the Infinity. And the Puma Velocity Nitro 2 is cheaper, more fun, and more versatile, making it a strong rival in this category.

Conclusion

The React Infinity Run 3 is the best version of the Infinity Run series yet in our experience: comfortable, stable, durable, and predictable. It does exactly what it is designed to do for easy miles. Buy it at a discount and you have a very solid daily trainer; pay full price and you are paying for reliability and familiarity rather than anything new.