Nike Invincible 3

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Nike Invincible 3: Review

“A max-cushioned shoe designed for long-distance and recovery runs.”

Overview


The Nike Invincible 3 is a running shoe designed for maximum cushioning and comfort. This shoe is known for its plush underfoot feel, making it ideal for long-distance and recovery runs.

Key Features:

  • ZoomX Foam: Provides a soft and bouncy cushioning experience.
  • Updated Upper: Features a more breathable and secure Flyknit material.
  • Enhanced Stability: Includes a longer heel clip and wider platform for better support.

The Nike Invincible 3 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize cushioning and comfort for long-distance runs. Its enhanced stability offers better support, making it suitable for recovery runs and daily training.

Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 30% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the Nike Invincible 3


The Nike Invincible 3 excels in providing a plush and comfortable running experience, especially for long-distance and recovery runs. The ZoomX foam offers a soft and bouncy feel, making each step cushioned and enjoyable. However, the shoe's bulk and high stack height make it less suitable for faster-paced runs. The updated Flyknit upper improves breathability and fit, although some runners experienced minor heel slippage. The shoe's stability has been enhanced with a longer heel clip and wider platform, making it more supportive than previous versions. While the traction is adequate for dry roads, it may not perform well on wet surfaces. Overall, the Nike Invincible 3 is a top choice for runners seeking maximum cushioning and comfort for their daily training and recovery runs. Its plush cushioning and enhanced stability make it a standout option for long-distance runners.

Comparable Shoes


The ASICS Gel Nimbus 26 is a good alternative to the Nike Invincible 3 for runners seeking a soft and cushioned ride. The Nimbus 26 offers a higher level of versatility due to its rocker midsole profile (a curved sole that helps with forward propulsion), making it suitable for faster paces. While the Invincible 3 excels in cushioning, the Nimbus 26 provides a more balanced ride, making it a better option for those who want a versatile shoe for various running speeds.

The Hoka Bondi 8 is a max-cushion running shoe that provides a high level of ride comfort. It is slightly cheaper than the Invincible 3 and offers excellent cushioning for long runs. While the Invincible 3 has a bouncier feel, the Bondi 8 provides a more stable and supportive ride, making it a good alternative for runners who prioritize stability and comfort.

The Saucony Triumph 22 features a brand-new midsole with increased stack and softness, making it excellent for long runs and everyday runs at slow speeds. While it doesn't have the versatility of previous Triumph models, it offers a similar level of cushioning to the Invincible 3. The Triumph 22 is a good option for runners who want a soft and cushioned ride for their long-distance runs.

The On Cloud Monster 2 is a max-cushion running shoe that offers high levels of ride comfort. It is comparable to the Invincible 3 in terms of cushioning but provides a different underfoot feel due to its unique CloudTec technology (a cushioning system that uses hollow pods for impact absorption). The Cloud Monster 2 is a good alternative for runners who want a cushioned and comfortable shoe for long-distance runs.

10 Nike Invincible 3 Pros & Cons


5 Pros

Plush ZoomX foam midsole provides excellent cushioning and comfort.
Redesigned Flyknit upper improves breathability and fit.
Enhanced stability with a longer heel clip and wider platform.
Durable outsole designed to handle high mileage.
Ideal for long-distance and recovery runs.

5 Cons

Not suitable for fast-paced runs due to bulk and high stack height.
Limited traction on wet surfaces.
Some runners experienced minor heel slippage.
Slight weight increase compared to previous versions.
ZoomX foam prone to deep creasing over time.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Nike Invincible 3 features a redesigned Flyknit material that enhances breathability and provides a secure fit. The new design is lighter and more comfortable, addressing issues from previous versions. The upper also includes a functional heel loop and improved rearfoot reflectivity, making it easier to slip on and increasing visibility during low-light conditions. The padded tongue and flat laces contribute to overall comfort, although some runners experienced minor heel slippage, which can be resolved with a runner's knot (a lacing technique to secure the heel).

Midsole

The midsole of the Nike Invincible 3 is made entirely of ZoomX foam, providing a soft and bouncy cushioning experience. The shoe has a high stack height of 40 mm in the heel and 31 mm in the forefoot, with a 9 mm heel-to-toe drop (the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot). The addition of a Strobel fabric layer acts as a trampoline, enhancing the cushioning and preventing the midsole from bottoming out under heavy loads. This design makes the shoe ideal for long-distance and recovery runs, offering excellent impact protection and comfort.

Outsole

The outsole of the Nike Invincible 3 features an articulated rubber layout that improves flexibility and reduces the slappy feel of previous versions. The front and rear sections are split into independent rubber panels, allowing the outsole to flex better with the midsole. While the traction is adequate for dry roads, the smooth plastic-like texture of the rubber may not perform well on wet surfaces. The outsole is durable and designed to handle high mileage, making it suitable for long-distance running.

Size/fit

The Nike Invincible 3 fits true to size and offers a secure fit through the midfoot and forefoot. The redesigned Flyknit upper provides better ventilation and a more comfortable fit compared to previous versions. The shoe has a medium toe box, accommodating various foot shapes. Some runners experienced minor heel slippage, which can be resolved with a runner's knot. Overall, the fit is comfortable and secure, making it suitable for long-distance runs.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the Nike Invincible 3, thanks to its plush ZoomX foam midsole. The cushioning is soft and bouncy, providing a trampoline-like sensation with each step. The padded tongue and flat laces contribute to overall comfort, while the breathable Flyknit upper keeps the foot cool. The shoe's high stack height and cushioning make it ideal for long-distance and recovery runs, offering excellent impact protection and comfort.

Cushioning

The Nike Invincible 3 is known for its exceptional cushioning, provided by the full-length ZoomX foam midsole. The high stack height of 40 mm in the heel and 31 mm in the forefoot ensures a soft and bouncy ride. The addition of a Strobel fabric layer enhances the cushioning, making it feel like running on foam pillows. This design is perfect for long-distance and recovery runs, offering excellent impact protection and comfort.

Breathability

The redesigned Flyknit upper of the Nike Invincible 3 improves breathability, keeping the foot cool during runs. The tight-knit mesh is stiffer than previous versions but provides better ventilation. The lack of an inner sleeve also contributes to improved airflow, making the shoe feel less stuffy. Overall, the upper design ensures that the shoe remains breathable and comfortable, even during long runs.

Stability

Stability has been significantly improved in the Nike Invincible 3, thanks to the addition of a longer heel clip and a wider platform. These features provide better support and make the shoe more stable than previous versions. The Strobel fabric layer also contributes to stability by controlling the loading process and preventing the foot from sinking too deeply into the midsole. This enhanced stability makes the shoe suitable for recovery runs and daily training.

Durability

The Nike Invincible 3 is designed to handle high mileage, with a durable outsole and midsole construction. The articulated rubber outsole improves flexibility and reduces wear, while the ZoomX foam midsole is resilient and maintains its cushioning properties over time. The shoe's upper is made of a stiffer, more durable Flyknit material, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of long-distance running. Overall, the Invincible 3 is built to last, making it a reliable choice for daily training.

Grip

The grip of the Nike Invincible 3 is adequate for dry roads, thanks to the articulated rubber outsole. The independent rubber panels in the front and rear sections allow for better flexibility and traction. However, the smooth plastic-like texture of the rubber may not perform well on wet surfaces, reducing overall grip. While the shoe is suitable for dry conditions, runners should exercise caution on wet roads and paved trails.

Flex

The Nike Invincible 3 offers good flexibility, thanks to its articulated rubber outsole and independent rubber panels. These features allow the outsole to flex better with the midsole, providing a more natural and comfortable ride. The shoe's high stack height and soft ZoomX foam midsole also contribute to its flexibility, making it suitable for long-distance and recovery runs. Overall, the Invincible 3 provides a flexible and comfortable running experience.

Who should buy the Nike Invincible 3?


The Nike Invincible 3 is ideal for runners who prioritize cushioning and comfort for long-distance and recovery runs. It is suitable for those who prefer a soft and bouncy ride, thanks to the ZoomX foam midsole. Runners who need enhanced stability will appreciate the longer heel clip and wider platform. This shoe is also a good choice for those who run at a moderate pace and value breathability and durability in their running shoes.

Who should not buy the Nike Invincible 3?


Runners looking for a shoe for fast-paced runs or speedwork may find the Nike Invincible 3 less suitable due to its bulk and high stack height. Those who prefer a firmer ride might not appreciate the soft and bouncy cushioning of the ZoomX foam midsole. Additionally, runners who frequently run on wet surfaces may want to consider other options, as the Invincible 3's grip on wet roads is not its strong suit. For a more versatile shoe, consider the New Balance 1080 v13 or the Hoka Bondi 8.

Nike Invincible 3: What's it good for?


The Nike Invincible 3 is great for long-distance running and recovery runs, thanks to its plush cushioning and comfortable design. It is also suitable for daily training at moderate paces. The shoe's enhanced stability makes it a good choice for runners who need extra support during their runs. Overall, the Invincible 3 is best suited for runners who prioritize comfort and cushioning in their running shoes.

8 Nike Invincible 3 FAQs


Is the Nike Invincible 3 suitable for fast-paced runs?

The Nike Invincible 3 is not ideal for fast-paced runs due to its bulk and high stack height. It is best suited for long-distance and recovery runs where cushioning and comfort are prioritized.

How does the Nike Invincible 3 compare to the previous versions?

The Nike Invincible 3 features several updates, including a redesigned Flyknit upper for better breathability, a longer heel clip for enhanced stability, and a wider platform. While it maintains the plush cushioning of previous versions, it offers improved stability and a slightly firmer underfoot feel.

Is the Nike Invincible 3 good for daily training?

Yes, the Nike Invincible 3 is suitable for daily training, especially for long-distance and recovery runs. Its plush cushioning and comfortable design make it ideal for runners who prioritize comfort during their daily runs.

Does the Nike Invincible 3 provide good traction on wet surfaces?

The Nike Invincible 3 provides adequate traction on dry roads, but its grip on wet surfaces is not its strong suit. Runners should exercise caution when running on wet roads and paved trails.

What type of runner would benefit most from the Nike Invincible 3?

Runners who prioritize cushioning and comfort for long-distance and recovery runs will benefit most from the Nike Invincible 3. Its plush ZoomX foam midsole and enhanced stability make it ideal for those who need extra support during their runs.

Is the Nike Invincible 3 true to size?

Yes, the Nike Invincible 3 fits true to size. The redesigned Flyknit upper provides a secure fit through the midfoot and forefoot, accommodating various foot shapes.

Can the Nike Invincible 3 be used for trail running?

The Nike Invincible 3 is designed primarily for road running and may not perform well on trails. Its traction on wet surfaces is limited, making it less suitable for trail running.

How durable is the Nike Invincible 3?

The Nike Invincible 3 is designed to handle high mileage, with a durable outsole and midsole construction. The articulated rubber outsole improves flexibility and reduces wear, while the ZoomX foam midsole maintains its cushioning properties over time.

Nike Invincible 3 alternatives



Nike Invincible 3
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Weight
Weight
283 g
M: 286 g
W: 249 g
M: 278 g
W: 230 g
M: 306 g
W: 261 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
31 mm
27 mm
29 mm
44 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
9 mm
10 mm
10 mm
10 mm
10 mm
5 mm
Heel
Heel
40 mm
39 mm
37 mm
37 mm
39 mm
49 mm
Usages
Usages
Daily running
Daily runningDaily runningDaily runningDaily runningDaily runningSpeed training
Brand
Brand
Nike
adidasNikeSauconyOnHoka
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
ComfortableMaximalist
ComfortableMaximalistComfortableComfortableMaximalist
Maximalist
Breathable
Breathable
Carbon fiber plate
Carbon fiber plate
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
adidas Ultraboost
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
SustainableVegan ⓋVegan Ⓥ
0

Nike Invincible 3: what the experts say (3 reviews)

Nike Invincible 3: 13 Expert video reviews

Nike Invincible 3: 1 Manufacturer video

Nike Invincible 3 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainRoad (+1362)
UsagesDaily running (+1132)
BrandNike (+261)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1116)Heel strike (+1097)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
Shoe TypeComfortable (+239)Maximalist (+428)
FitMedium toe box (+855)
FeaturesBreathable (+753)Orthotic friendly (+456)Removable insole (+439)
MaterialsKnit (+212)Reflective (+181)
Colorways300 Jade Ice Clear Jade / Malachite / White, Astronomy Blue / Black / Glacier Blue, Barely Grape / Black / Lilac Bloom / Sail, Black, Black / White, Black / White / Coconut Milk, Black Anthracite, Blue, College Navy / Metallic Silver, Dark Raisin / Hyper Violet-hot Punch
Specificationsvs Average
Released
Feb 2023
Measurements
Weight
283 g
Heel to toe drop
9 mm
Heel
40 mm
Forefoot
31 mm

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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