Nike Epic React Flyknit 2 test & review - A lightweight daily trainer
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The Nike Epic React Flyknit 2 is the second iteration of the Epic React Lineup.
It uses the popular React midsole foam, which is good if you want a cushioned and springy ride. It has all the things you would want in a daily trainer; it’s light, cushioned, responsive, and looks pretty slick too.
At first sight of bringing this shoe out of the box, I loved this shoe. It was light, had a nice simple design, and the midsole had a cool wavy design which was appreciated too.
For first impressions run wise, there was some bad and some good. The shoe felt pretty firm but felt better as the run went on.
The first thing I noticed was how breathable the upper was, which, depending on the temperature, could be good or bad. But, for the 49-degree weather, it was just right for me.
The next thing I noticed once I started running was how light the shoe was and for the weight to cushion ratio. It was one of the most surprising (and best) features about the shoe.
The upper of this shoe is a one-piece flyknit upper. It was my first time trying a shoe with the flyknit upper, and I did enjoy it and could see why Nike has it on its top racers. It's very breathable and very light.
The Epic React 2 also features a very good heel cup, which has no cushioning. It would’ve been better with at least a thin layer of cushion, but it didn’t bother me as much as I thought it would while running.
Nike claims the shoe could last at least 400-500 miles, and some sources have said the upper limit is 650 miles. If true, it is a very good thing.
This shoe is probably one of the most comfortable shoes I’ve had in the sense that it gets more comfortable as the run goes on. The React foam gives a responsive but cushioned ride.
On runs, the shoe feels super light on the foot. And, the best thing about this shoe is the amazing cushion-to-weight ratio, which is a very rare thing when it comes to high mileage trainers.
The Epic React 2 weighs just 8.4 ounces for a pair of US size 10, which is 1-2 ounces less than a typical daily mileage trainer.
The retail price is $150, which is a little pricey. But, for a shoe that can last at least 400-500 miles (as Nike suggests it can), then the price isn’t too bad if you truly plan to use it well.
I believe you should buy this shoe if you are training for anything for a 5k up to a marathon or you're just trying to find a good daily trainer.
Once again, the Nike Epic React Flyknit 2 is cushioned, lightweight, responsive, and it doesn't look too bad. It’s a do it all trainer that will definitely not disappoint you.
Zack Dunn
RunRepeat Expert