The latest edition of Nike’s popular Elite lightweight running shoe line, the Nike Air Zoom Elite 3 is for a runner looking for a fast-paced everyday training shoe that is firm and stable. The Elite 3 improves on the fit of its predecessor, the Elite 2, while continuing to provide a lightweight alternative to the more cushioned Pegasus+ 2007 and softer Skylon.

Fit

The Elite 3 looks and feels more like a standard running shoe than many companies’ lightweight options, but don’t let this fool you, as its weight is comparable to its competitors at 10.6 oz (the Asics DS Trainer 12 is 9.6 oz and the Brooks Axiom 2 weighs in at 11.1 oz). A full-length Zoom Air unit gives the shoe a firm and responsive feel without sacrificing much weight. In addition, the Elite 3 has a dual-density medial post to provide moderate support and guide the runner’s foot through the gait cycle.

It also features a comfortably wide upper, especially in the forefoot, which accommodates Nike’s new cushioned FitSole sockliner and would provide room for many varieties of orthotics. The upper material is a sandwich mesh with flexible that supports without constraining the runner’s foot and the sole features Nike’s lightweight but durable Duralon material.

Recommendation

This shoe is best for a medium or light-build runner with a neutral or mild overpronating gait who likes to feel the road and move fast. It should be comfortable to a wider variety of runners than many other companies’ lightweight stability options from heel to toe. The Elite 3 might be a good alternative for people used to neutral shoes like the Asics Landreth or Brooks Glycerin, or lightweight stability options like the Brooks Axiom or Asics DS Trainer.

Check out the Nike Air Zoom Elite 3 on the RunTex Online Store.