The weather is finally getting better in the North East and I’m itching to get back into a running routine. At this point in my early 40’s, I like a sneaker with tons of cushioning that is super forgiving on my aging knees and gives me some pep in my step. The Nike Invincible 3 fits this profile.
A few years ago, I fell in love with the previous iteration from the Invincible line, the Invincible Run, and ended up training in them all summer. They took a little bit of time to get used to, but after a few runs I really got used to them. I can say that the ZoomX Invincible Run 3 is even better.
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Details
- Price: $180
- Weight: 10.9 oz, 309 g (men’s size 10)
- Stack Height: 40mm/31mm
- Heel to Toe Drop: 9 mm
- Widths available: D – regular
- Previous version: Nike Invincible 2
- Classification: Max cushion daily trainer
Key Features
- Breathable evolved flyknit upper for a secure fit without bulk
- High and wide ZoomX foam midsole cushions on ground contact
- Waffle outsole for durable traction
- Extra cushioning around contact points around the heel and tongue
- What’s new compared to past versions of the shoe? A wider and taller ZoomX foam midsole for maximum comfort and sleek all-around design updates.
Introduction to the Invincible 3
Nike describes this shoe as the most comfortable ride for everyday easy runs. It consists of a breathable flyknit upper on top of lightweight ZoomX midsole foam. The high and wide ZoomX foam provides more cushioning and comfort, while the wider forefoot shape increases stability. Extra cushioning is found around the heel and tongue for added comfort. And the waffle outsole provides durable traction on paved surfaces. This is a bouncy shoe.
Improved Stability
The main issue for me with the Invincible Run was the lack of stability. I felt like my foot was wobbling all over the place, especially when walking. Some people have complained about ankle pain, even early on during a run, because of the instability.
After slipping on the Invincible 3, I noticed the improved structure of the shoe – both in the ZoomX midsole and Flyknit upper. Nike also introduced a smaller heel clip to lock your foot down better, and a wider midsole. The ZoomX taller foam stacks feel a bit firmer than the original model as well. Make sure to lace them up tight – the first time I laced them up, I found my heel slipping a bit. After making some minor adjustments with the laces, I didn’t notice the heel slippage and they felt much more secure.
Is the Nike Invincible 3 Good for Long Runs?
The Nike Invincible 3 is great for all distances, though the extra cushioning provided by the ZoomX makes it ideal for longer runs. The good thing is the longer you run, the more you’ll realize the Nike ZoomX foam stays soft and responsive underneath your feet. The Invincible 3 is a bouncy ride and designed for optimal energy return with every step forward, so while they can feel a bit mushy and unstable from just walking around in, they feel great after running for 30-60 minutes.
They’re a great option for everyday miles to 10K’s to marathons. My only concern is that my toes tend to push forward in the Invincible 3 a bit, so I’ve gotten a slight blister on my toe.
Attention to Detail
The Nike Invincible 3 looks and feels like a high-quality sneaker. Retailing at $180, it’s not cheap, but it’s made very well. They run true to size; I’m typically a size 11 in Nike running sneakers, and I’m an 11 in the Invincible Run 3.
I love the little details in the sneaker, like the speckled outsole and the obsidian blue swoosh and outsole. Typically Nike running outsoles are black, so I like that the Nike designers changed it up with the obsidian. The insoles are a bright orange, and the smiley face on the inside is a nice touch.
I also like the lacing system – even the laces feel like a better quality compared to lower-tier shoes. There’s also a reflective heel tab in case you’re running in low-light conditions.
There is no swoosh on the medial side of the shoe, which I found interesting. Also, when you look down at the shoes, there’s a swoosh on the forefoot. Typically that swoosh is towards the lateral side of the shoe, but on the Nike Invincible 3, it’s right smack in the middle. Kind of strange placement, but not too bad.
Overall, the white/sail/oatmeal/obsidian is my favorite colorway – it’s perfect for the summer’s hot weather.
Should You Buy the ZoomX Invincible 3?
Bottom line is that the Invincible Run 3 is a top of the line training sneaker and a good option for many types of runs. I’ve spoken to plenty of runners who swear by them because of the comfortable fit and high support technology the Invincible Run 3 provides. If I only run in one sneaker this summer, I think I’ll be pretty satisfied with the Invincible Run 3. It has amazing cushioning, it fits well, and it has a more sleek-looking design.
If you’re not used to the ZoomX cushioning system in your previous running experience, it definitely has a different feel and takes some getting used to. Your foot will wobble around a lot more than you might be used to, so take it easy on your first run so that your feet and legs can acclimate to the sneakers.
If you have wide feet, this is probably not the shoe for you. I have a normal width foot, so I didn’t experience any pain, blisters or tightness along the sides of my feet. Although it looks wider than the Invincible 2, it’s actually about the same width.
If I had to give this Nike shoe an overall grade, I’d give it an A-. It’s a fun ride and meets most of the criteria for an average runner like myself, and higher-level runners can even do marathon training in them as well.
If you’re interested in purchasing the Invincible Run 3, check them out here for your next run.
