Want to run faster and have a running shoe that assists you 110%? A shoe that makes training more fun, boosts mood, and multiplies confidence? And a pair of running shoes for all levels?
Then we have the running shoes for you - Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next% and Nike Air Zoom Next%, among the absolute best tempo running shoes from . Two shoes enhance speed but target different runners with distinct goals.
Running shoes only for elite runners – or?
Maybe you already know these shoes and think “I’m not that fast” or “that’s not for me,” stay tuned. There's been a lot of hype, placing them on a pedestal where only top elite runners and overachievers can use them.
I’ve tried both models and must say, it’s a shame. They are two different shoes, yet grouped for elites. Of course, they're fantastic for elite runners, every detail is refined to help run faster. But a runner need not only be elite; they could be a recreational or experienced runner.
(Nike Air Zoom Alphafly Next%)
I won’t lie and say both models suit everyone and the same type of runners. There’s no doubt Next% is for elite runners or super enthusiasts skilled in running technique. It demands a lot from muscles, technique, and level. Not a shoe everyone will find comfortable.
(Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next%)
Where I find the hype around Nike's Next% models off-track is with the Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next%. In my view, it’s not only for very experienced runners. It can be, but also suits beginners, enthusiasts, and slightly advanced runners.
Let’s dive into the differences between these models and why you might (or should) consider Tempo Next% as your next .
Comparison Table
Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next% is for all runners, while Alphafly Next% is for the few
If you want to feel faster – and actually run faster - in daily training and races, Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next% is an ideal shoe. Regardless of much or little running experience.
I’ve tested the shoe over weeks and though I’ve run fast half and full marathons, my form is different now (being pregnant). So, I confidently say Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next% suits ALL. While Next% remains the ultimate race shoe for very experienced runners.
Tempo Next% makes everything feel just right
Both Next% and Tempo Next% are fantastic shoes offering speed with comfort. Alphafly Next% offers extreme speed in a lively package, while Tempo Next% offers speed in a stable package.
This makes Tempo Next% a shoe everyone will enjoy. Whether your fastest pace is 6:00, 5:30, 5:00, 4:30, 4:00, or faster.
Unique to both shoes is they provide clear advantages in helping you run more efficiently, ensuring the right landing and push-off. I’ve tried many different and good running shoes lately, yet I’ve had a “Yes indeed” experience on runs with both. They feel indescribably fantastic while running. Everything feels just right. But being pregnant, Tempo Next% is my favorite now for better control.
An outstanding running experience with Tempo Next%
Tempo Next% is, in my view, a “one-of-a-kind” everyday tempo and race shoe, while Nike Alphafly Next% is a truly unique race shoe.
I ran my fastest half marathon in Nike Alphafly Next%, deeply impressed, but after trying Tempo Next% I was completely blown away. I haven’t run my last in this shoe; I’ll reach for it multiple times a week – pregnant or not.
Ultralight and breathable uppers
While the midsole is crucial for the running experience, I also find the upper incredibly important. It must fit right and support the shoe’s purpose.
The upper of both models consists of an ultralight seamless upper with an integrated tongue. There’s no separate tongue that shifts with movement. In both Tempo Next% and Alphafly Next%, the tongue stays put once laced.
Both offer a superb and comfortable fit before, during, and after the run.
Where Tempo Next% differs from Alphafly Next% is the extra internal layer over the midfoot, providing more support and stability. I feel Tempo Next% fits even better and helps keep my foot in place. The heel cup is also relatively stable, adding to the snug fit and stability feel.
A responsive and stable midsole in Tempo Next% - an extremely responsive and lively midsole in Alphafly Next%.
The midsole is where the shoes differ most – and where the type of runners they suit are divided.
Tempo Next% offers a bouncy experience like Alphafly Next%, but not as soft and light. Here’s where they differ.
The midsole in Tempo Next% is made of most responsive, light, and soft ZoomX foam in the mid/forefoot and durable, firmer React foam in the heel. Plus, two Air Zoom Pods in the forefoot aid an efficient push-off. A full-length plastic plate (not carbon) also helps propel you forward.
It may all sound technical, but it’s not. This midsole design is super responsive, helping forward motion. I’ve also found a comfortable midsole, soft yet not overly lively. The firmer React foam makes the shoe easier to control, making Tempo Next% more forgiving and easy for all to use.
Unlike Alphafly, with only ZoomX foam in the midsole, two Air Zoom Pods, and a full-length stiff , it focuses on efficiency, responsiveness, and maximum softness. It’s a shoe that propels you in a very soft package. It’s great, but ZoomX foam also means durability is limited. A rule of thumb for Alphafly’s durability is about 200km.
Whereas the combination of ZoomX and React foam means Tempo Next% can last up to 500km.
Tempo Next% has a durable outsole compared to Next%
Lastly, Tempo Next% has a fullrubber coating on the full outer sole unlike the Alphafly Next% which only has partial rubber. This means a bit of weight is added to Tempo Next%, but it also makes the shoe more durable. And almost more importantly, it provides much better grip on surfaces.
On my few runs and one half-marathon race with Alphafly Next%, I had to be extremely attentive in turns, on wet surfaces or similar. It's so lively and hard to control, meaning if you lose focus, it's incredibly easy to twist.
But I've had none of the same experiences with Tempo Next%. It's very easy to control and navigate. No worries at all. It stays put.
Which shoe to choose – Tempo Next% or Alphafly Next%?
If you're a very experienced runner or elite, I would definitely consider a unique combo with both shoes. Personally (if I weren't pregnant) I'd use Tempo Next% as my training shoe and Alphafly Next% solely for races from 10km to marathon.
No doubt that is completely unique for racing and I've yet to find a shoe that surpasses it. It's lively, insanely comfortable over distance, it's fast, light, and efficient.
But in my training, I would always bring out Tempo Next% because it shares many traits with Alphafly Next% but is just more protective and stable.
But as pregnant or if you're a beginner, casual, or intermediate runner, I'd say Tempo Next% is an outstanding running shoe. You'll truly have some incredible mood-boosting runs, flying home both literally and symbolically. It brings out the best in you, giving speed, protection, stability, and durability.
Next%
Buy Nike Tempo Next%
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