Nike ZoomX Dragonfly Spike Review
Nike Unleashed the Dragon
Likes
- Resilient foam and rigid plate
- Efficient rocker geometry
- Handles any event distance
Dislikes
- Expensive
What's New
While Nike pulled design inspiration from their previous distance spikes, the all-new ZoomX Dragonfly is in a league of its own. This spike finally introduces ZoomX to the track, and the foam's soft, responsive performance doesn't disappoint in the slightest. To make these shoes even more explosive, Nike embedded a full-length Shockwave plate in the Dragonfly's midsole, boosting the responsiveness and adding top-tier efficiency. As for the upper, the single-layer Flymesh is primed for speed, offering quality breathability with an almost unnoticeable weight. These record breakers, and the technology they are outfitted with, truly speak for themselves.
The Bottom Line
Like mythical dragons of old, these spikes are dangerously powerful, and just the sight of them strikes fear into the hearts of all who oppose them. As they should, considering these spikes have been on the feet of runners who broke a multitude of records on the track, including the 5K and 10K world records, both of which stood for over 15 years. The main differentiator in this update is the ZoomX foam midsole. Its tremendous energy return is top-notch, and Nike's Shockwave plate design only highlights the foam further, efficiently propelling runners into every stride. The Dragonfly is topped with a super-light and breathable seamless Flymesh upper, which perfectly complements its securely comfortable design. The only real downside to these spikes is their high price point, but the performance of the ZoomX Dragonfly has already proved its worth.
Shoe Performance
Shoe Softnessi
FirmSoftRide/Energy Returni
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protectioni
LowHighFlexibilityi
RigidElasticUpper Supporti
StructuredAdaptableSpecifications & Fit
How It Fits
| Toe Box | Toe Box Width: Narrow | Toe Box Height: Narrow |
| Midfoot Volume | Low |
| Heel Width | Narrow |
| Arch Height | Low |
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Unisex: 4.7 oz (size 9) |
| Stack Height | N/A |
| Terrain | Rubber |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | True to size |
Our In-Depth Look
Shoe Softnessi
Matt: "Nike's ZoomX compound has become the foam to beat when it comes to competition on the roads, and now it has taken over the track too. After a summer of racing, I can confidently say that this foam is soft—not in a pillowy cloud-like way, but soft in a fast and efficient way. This cushioning offers just enough plush bounce to save my legs over long distances on the track. I ran a handful of 5Ks with these spikes, and I always felt surprisingly fresh and ready to roll going into the last few laps. I really think that the resilient layer of soft ZoomX foam helped protect my legs during those early miles. Initially, it was strange to have more midsole material underfoot, but once I got rolling, the ZoomX softness carried me to some hot times on the track, even in the summer heat."
Ride/Energy Returni
Matt: "Energy return is where the Dragonfly truly makes a name for itself. In a rockered package, the energy-saving ZoomX foam works perfectly with the rigid plate to create a world-class combination of propulsion and efficiency. This spike has enough pop to handle speedy 800m races, as well as the perfect amount of protection for efficiently smooth 5Ks and 10Ks. I used the Dragonfly for some quicker 800s at the end of workouts and a few mile races, and each time I was 100% confident toeing the line with these explosive, race-ready spikes on foot. All in all, the Dragonfly is built to give runners the energy return they need no matter what distance they're racing."
Underfoot Protectioni
Matt: "The Dragonfly has a layer of ZoomX foam in the midsole that protects my legs and feet well over longer races. In the early spring, I broke out a pair of old spikes for a 5K run on the track, and my legs were trashed for a week! Conversely, with the Dragonfly on foot, the post-race experience was very different. I am always extremely confident when lacing up the Dragonfly because I know that I can run fast without worrying about my body getting destroyed."
Flexibilityi
Matt: "There isn't too much flex to the Dragonfly since this spike needs to be aggressive enough for faster races on the track. The overall geometry and design of the spike help to generate a fast, efficient, and smooth ride."
Upper Supporti
Matt: "The upper on the Dragonfly features an adaptable thin mesh, but it isn't too roomy since this is still a highly competitive racing shoe."
Nike ZoomX Dragonfly Spike
Individual Thoughts
Runners around the world haven't been able to get enough of the ZoomX Dragonfly since it was released, and these spikes will undoubtedly claim legendary status within the running community. By blending a resilient layer of their proven ZoomX foam with an efficient and energetic midsole plate, Nike has developed a super spike that is ready to tear up the track. I used this spike for any distance from 800m to 5K, but it can handle 10K as well. The ZoomX foam provides just enough protection and efficiency to keep my legs fresh for longer. Furthermore, the plate technology paired with the rocker-shaped midsole propels me forward very smoothly. I have a lot more experience with traditional spikes, having raced in them growing up, so when I first stepped on the track with the Dragonfly, the ZoomX foam felt strange in the midsole. But when I was racing, I understood what it meant to be energy efficient. Overall, with its perfectly balanced foam, rigid plate, and lightweight design, the Nike Dragonfly has the range to cover almost all distance events on the track and is an unbelievable secret weapon for any athlete looking to elevate their racing to the next level.
