The Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2, quite an impressive name for a shoe. The original React Infinity was introduced at the start of 2020. This new model presented a fresh approach to running shoes for overpronating runners. Instead of adding a typical stability block on the medial side of the midsole, the React Infinity featured a light reinforcement at the midfoot and a wider shoe base to achieve a similar result. This new approach made the Infinity not just a go-to shoe for light and medium overpronators, but also made the model very suitable for neutral runners who preferred a more stable base. The new Infinity Run 2 definitely has changed its looks. But what about the technologies employed in the shoe? Have they also changed? In this post we’ll take a closer look.
The Infinity Run 2 is the successor of the well received first version of the model. The original Infinity looks a lot like the Nike Epic React Flyknit. Still, the original Infinity is a running shoe which is far more technical than the Epic React. Where the Epic React was often also used as a lifestyle sneaker, the Infinity had more of a running shoe character. The new Infinity Run 2 continues this legacy. The innovative model has been given a more classic look, and more structure has been added to the upper.
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 in detail
Discover the unique characteristics of these running shoes
Collar and heel counter with more padding than the previous version
Flyknit-upper with Flywire technology for more structure
React-midsole with more foam
From Pain to Power
The biggest update to the Infinity Run 2 is also the update that is most striking. The upper has been changed significantly. As a brand you can never satisfy everybody with one single design. There will always be runners for who the Infinity just doesn’t do it. But the large number of runners who were enthusiastic about the original Infinity also indicated that one of the downsides of the that model was that the heel counter offered very little support and just did not seem to keep the heel locked down in place during their runs. Considering the very thin upper of the original, this verdict doesn’t come as a surprise. Nike took this complaint seriously and completely changed the design of the heel. The Infinity Run 2 has been given a lot more padding at the heel, making the upper resemble a more classic upper style. This padding keeps the heel in place much better. That extra padding and structure is also found around the ankle, in the tongue and in the midfoot by means of the Flywire technology. That extra structure gives the Infinity Run 2 a more solid and reliable look.
Less Racing, More Running
The fast, racer look of the Infinity has been changed into a more retro-like design. Because the upper keeps the feet better in place and the Flywire technology gives the midfoot more structure, you will experience a more reliable running feel. The midsole of the original Infinity was celebrated and a similar midsole is therefore used in these second version. One small difference: less material has been added between the insole and the midsole. Thereby placing your feet closer to the React material of the midsole. The React foam doesn’t need introducing. This material, which offers a very good mix between reactivity and durability, has long and widely proven itself in many of Nike’s running shoe models. Less racing…, but does that also mean running less fast? The answer is short; Hell no! The Infinity Run 2 is an ideal shoe for your daily run at fast or an average pace, whether you run short or long distances.
Injury-Free Running
The responsive midsole of the React Infinity has the same feel as the previous version: the shoes provide an energetic and soft running experience. The Infinity was designed, tested and refined with one thought in mind; injury-free running. Therefore the shoes have no hard correction for overpronation, no technologies that almost force your feet into a certain transition style. The original Infinity was extensively tested, and these tests concluded that the React Infinity was found to reduce injuries with 52% when compared to the Nike Air Zoom Structure 22. This doesn’t mean that the Zoom Structure isn’t a good running shoe, but that the shoe isn’t suitable for every overpronating runner. Before the Infinity Run 2 hit the market, they put the new model through a similar test to ensure that this successor meets the same high standard.
Run Fearless
Run without worrying with the lightweight, responsive React foam. The midsole with a strong Rocker geometry (the curve in the sole) ensures a natural and smooth transition. The Infinity Run is designed to let you run carefree and above all to ensure that you can continue to do so.
The Finishing Lines
The Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 has undergone quite a few changes. The racing look that had strong characteristics of lifestyle or sneaker-like shoe has made way for a much more traditional running shoe look. To keep your heel in place better, the back of the shoe has been given considerably more padding. The added Flywire cables and extra padding at the tongue also provide more structure and support. If we place the Infinity Run 2 in the bigger picture, the shoe is best comparable with the adidas Ultraboost ST, the HOKA ONE ONE Arahi and the Saucony Hurricane. Although the Ultraboost ST and the Arahi still give less responsive cushioning and the Hurricane gives more of a traditional correction.
Curious? You can shop the new React Infinity here in our webshop. Do you still have some questions to ask first? Please don’t hesitate to contact our customer service.
