Nike Epic React Flyknit 2

Nike Epic React Flyknit 2 - Is it still epic?

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I never got to try the first version of the Epic React, although they were on my wishlist. There was quite a lot of hype surrounding them (but isn’t that always the case with Nike shoe releases?) and some even declared them the best running shoes of 2018.

This was the first running shoe that contained the Nike React foam, which is speedy yet supportive. The Epic React also became a very popular casual shoe. So, I had to give the new Epic React 2 a go.

They do look like something in between a casual sneaker and a running shoe. There are multiple colorways, but the main colorway is black with a splash of color around the midsole and on the outsole.

Since the upper only consists of the flyknit and the outsole hardly use any rubber, it is a very light shoe, which only weighs 196 grams. It has an 18 mm stack height in the forefoot and 28 mm in the heel, which gives it a 10 mm drop.

Nike hasn’t made any huge changes to the Epic React 2, but why would you change a winning formula?

The only real changes are the heel counter, which now dips down in the middle and the lacing system which is now split into two parts. The Nike swoosh is also different, it is on both sides of the shoe and it is embroidered onto the flyknit.

Midsole

The Nike Epic React 2 has a wider midsole than the Pegasus Turbo and thus provides a bit more stable ride. I liked the Pegasus Turbo with the ZoomX midsole, but it worked kind of like a sponge, it’s soft but it temporarily loses its shape when you put weight on it.

This would result in quite a bit of ground feel with the Pegasus Turbo. Nike describes the React foam as being responsive and springy. Well, it definitely is springy, I’ll give them that.

The React foam does keep its shape and therefore provides better impact protection than the Pegasus Turbo. It’s a nice and cushioned ride.

Because of the Nike React foam midsole, I do not really notice the drop that much since it doesn’t really feel like you are being propelled forward. With the Pegasus Turbo, I did have the feeling that I was being pushed forward slightly, something that I didn’t really experience with the Epic React.

Instead, it feels more like you are being propelled upwards. Which isn’t a complete surprise if you consider the fact that the Nike React foam was first used in Nike’s basketball shoes. And for basketball, the upward motion would be more useful.

In the beginning, the midsole reminded me more of a trampoline on which you want to jump up and down on. In the end, I did get used to the midsole, but still didn’t really have the feeling that I was being propelled forward by the shoe itself.

Upper

The flyknit upper gives you a snug feeling, but it is flexible enough to avoid any hotspots. In this version, the eyelets are separated into two parts, a lower and an upper part.

This should allow for more flexibility, but the flyknit upper is already really flexible, thus I’m not sure if this really makes a huge difference. But since the upper is made out of one piece of flyknit, the laces don’t have that much effect anyway.

Normally laces tighten two separate pieces of the upper together over the tongue of the shoe, but with the one-piece upper that isn’t possible. You can tighten the laces a little bit, but if you tighten them too much the flyknit will fold in on itself, which isn’t very comfortable.

There also isn’t really a way to tie the laces in any other way, since there are only a limited number of eyelets on this shoe. Which for some runners could be an inconvenience.

Due to the flyknit the sizing label was stitched onto the sockliner, normally it’s tucked in underneath the sockliner and it doesn’t bother you, but sometimes it would come out from underneath the sockliner and I could feel it on the side of my foot. This would eventually become annoying and I would have to put it back underneath the sockliner.

The outer heel counter on the Epic React 2 now dips down at the back and is, therefore, smaller than in the first version, but I’m not convinced it makes any difference, since there is another heel counter on the inside of the shoe which is a lot higher in the back and still gives you the support you need.

Outsole

Part of the React foam is exposed, while part of the heel and part of the forefoot area of the outsole are covered with rubber. The rubber does provide enough traction on roads and easy trails.

The exposed React foam did start to wear a little bit after about 50 miles in these shoes, but the rubber still looked good, so I don’t think it will be an issue while I put more miles in these shoes.

Performance

It is not as much of a speedy ride as the Nike Pegasus Zoom Turbo. The Turbo is more of a fast 5 or 10k racing shoe, while I would classify the Epic React 2 more of a half marathon racing shoe.

Fit

Although the flyknit is a bit snug, I had no issues with the sizing and wore my normal running shoe size.

Conclusion

When running in the Nike Epic React Flyknit 2, does the word epic come to mind? Well, calling them epic is obviously quite the claim. I wouldn’t really go with epic, it didn’t completely blow my mind, but I would go with great.

The Nike Epic React 2 is a great half marathon racing shoe. It’s comfortable and springy and adapts easily to different kinds of workouts. I’ll definitely keep these shoes in my rotation and I’m considering buying more Nike running shoes with the Epic React foam.

Nike Epic React FLyknit 2 – Second chapter of wonderful friendship

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The first installment of Epic React turned out to be the best shoe I had the privilege to run in, which is reflected in my review full of admiration and love.

It broke my heart when I finally needed to retire them after over 700km. I had an additional pair, but I gave them away to justify my purchase of the newest edition.

Again, they were available in many new exciting colour options, but I had my eyes set on a juicy red version. Always wanted to own a red sneaker—that edgy spicy look.

The price didn’t change from the previous version, which was $220 AUS. Sure, they had some discounts on other colorways, but I was already committed to getting that red one.

I got them from the official Nike website. The picture below was taken right after unboxing. It felt like Christmas.

Appearance

Not much really changed since last year. Nike swoosh is a bit bigger and more defined, although the lacing design looks slightly different. I wonder if that contributes in any way to stability.

Moreover, the heel cup is visibly trimmed. Also, it can be my imagination, but laces look bit wider than before. But, I guess I washed my old ones several times in the washing machine so that could be it.

Other than that, it’s quite hard to spot major upgrades. Weight is still super light, and I guess there was no point in changing much in the visual department as it was flawless.

This shoe's great asset is that it delivers as a performance shoe while maintaining attractive casual appeal.

At the time of writing, I have a bit over 100km in this shoe, and again it is a joy. I am using it in rotation with another light, fast shoe by New Balance.

Fit

I learned over the time that with Nike, it is wise to go at least half size up, especially if your foot is on the wider side like mine. Stretchy upper wraps tight around the foot providing a snug fit.

With the previous installment, it took me a moment to mold into the shoe, but this time it felt almost instantly at home. It could be either the case of me being so used to the shoe or upper is bit stretchier.

The bottom line is that if you enjoyed the feel of the first version, you would not be disappointed.

My runs are mostly short, between 8-10km, and I like to go fast 4:10 to 4:30 minutes per km. The fit of Epic React Flynkit seems to be perfect for that type of exercise.

Upper

The new version comes with lightly improved upper made out of lightweight, flexible, and breathable fabric Flyknit. One-piece bootie construction molds perfectly around your foot, providing a secure fit.

Also, thanks to updated heel design, the back of the shoe is softer, so it is easier to slide in. Overall, it is more comfortable—just like a nice sock.

It may take several runs for it to adapt the shape of the foot before we achieve that perfect bond. But the comfort that your foot will feel in that Flyknit wrap is divine. I

t is worth noticing that the stretch of the fabric varies from location, which is pretty great. I am guessing that after some constructive feedback from the previous installment, Nike added some extra flex on the forefoot and collar.

Redesigned lacing panel allows bit more movement in the upper's midfoot area plus the Nike swoosh is larger, which may be giving some extra stability on the sides. I couldn’t really tell, but it looks good.

As mentioned before, laces seem a bit wider. Overall, the marinating period was way quicker for me this time than with Epic React Flyknit one.

Midsole

What shines in Nike Epic React Flyknit 2 is a midsole entirely made of Epic React foam.

This foam is made of synthetic rubber blend, developed by some great minds at the Nike headquarters after years of hard work. It is engineered to make sure that what you are putting in on your run is generously released back.

The shoes have great energy absorption and responsiveness. All of that contributes to that smooth heel to toe transition and shock prevention for your joints.

Like in the previous model, this midsole gives you a fast, light, and springy ride—you will be running on the clouds again. I got to admit; it is a joy to be in this shoe.

Comfort is just on another level plus midsole prove to be also very durable. Heel to toe drop remained 10mm, but I just got used to it. I’m a forefoot runner anyway, especially on those speed days.

Outsole

Majority of the outsole is exposed React foam. It keeps the shoe light and bouncy. We have some additional layers of translucent rubber placed at the front and rear (high wear and tear areas) to improve durability.

These are just enough to get the shoes good traction while still keeping the weight on the minimal side. The rubber maintains the pattern of the foam while having flashy colorway, which looks really good.

Please keep in mind that due to that design, it won’t be advisable to run them on demanding terrains. They are perfect for roads and flat, even surfaces—tracks that will allow you to run fast.

Even though you can quite early notice some wear on the outsole, especially the foam, it took me a good 600 plus km in version one till I started to worry.

They will serve you well for a decent amount of time. I could notice some slipping, but mostly on wet days, so there is no need to panic.

Outsole fresh out of the box

Wear on outsole after 100 km plus (road, sand terrain mostly) where there is barely any difference

Pros

• The versatility of that sneaker on different levels. Its appearance is excellent for casual wear and running. While its performance is great for easy long runs and speed runs. Overall, it is great for all round.
• React foam is a technological miracle.
• The upgraded Flyknit upper was amazing, and Nike managed to make it even better. Under this category comes overall comfort and breathability.
• The price for this version is expensive, but the shoe has proven to be worthy. It is also available on crazy sales everywhere so anyone can score a bargain.
• It has insane energy return.

Cons

• There is not enough improvement in comparison to the previous installment
• It has a 10mm drop, and for a shoe that I use for speed runs, I would prefer less.
• The design of the outsole (exposed foam) reduces traction and durability.
• It is not a supportive shoe if you are looking for one.
• As for sizing, the design of the toe box requires to go ½ - 1 size up. This is especially true if your foot happens to be wide.

A bit of an action shot

Conclusion

I had a fantastic time in Nike Epic React Flyknit version one, and I retired them by finishing half marathon and beating my previous time on that route by seven minutes. They were great.

I did not hesitate for a second in purchasing the newer release, and I am not disappointed. Everything that worked is still there and more.

Overall, the fit and feel got improved. New colour designs got released. I love my red ones—they are an eye-catcher.

This is a perfect shoe for someone who is looking for a good snug fit, lightweight, and performance. I just like into slip them on and go for a nice fast run.

It flawlessly transitions from that full-on fast day exercise to easy recovery jog. It is definitely not stability shoe but, don’t get me wrong; it provides a certain amount of security, which is enough.

I just appreciate that it has a flexible upper and minimalistic feel. It is not the cheapest option on the market, but what are you getting is a solid running shoe and a flashy casual shoe in one.

Moreover, the number of sales available at the moment will blow your mind.

If you start listing all that technology that was packed in like Flyknit upper, React Foam, and lacing system, it doesn’t seem to be as expensive anymore.

It was my number one choice for a long time until I recently discovered something that blew my mind even more and even from the place I was not expecting. But, that is a story for another review.

The Epic React Flyknit family has a special place in my heart and always will. If you are a running enthusiast, I highly recommend giving it a shot. It may change your life.