React Foam Midsole Absorbs Impact and Provides a Smooth Ride
One of the standout features of the Nike Alpha Elite 2 is the React foam midsole. This proprietary foam compound was specially engineered by Nike to provide the perfect balance of cushioning and energy return. For runners looking for a comfortable yet responsive daily trainer, the React foam midsole really hits the sweet spot.
So how exactly does the React foam work? The midsole uses a rubberized foam material that is incredibly lightweight yet offers superior shock absorption. The foam has a springy quality that compresses on impact to cushion each footstrike, before quickly bouncing back to return energy to the runner. This responsive cushioning allows you to maintain momentum as you transition through the gait cycle.
In comparison to traditional EVA foam, React foam has a lower density that provides exceptionally soft cushioning without breaking down over time. Nike designers tweaked the polymer composition to reduce density by about 13% compared to standard EVA foams. This means each step sinks in slightly to provide plush comfort, while still maintaining enough resilience to prevent your feet from feeling “bottomed out.”
When you first try on the Alpha Elite 2, you’ll immediately notice how the React foam midsole seems to mold perfectly to your foot. The contoured shape cradles the underside of your foot in a glove-like way. Meanwhile, the low-density foam compresses just enough to absorb impact, especially under high-load areas like the heel. This creates smooth cushioning that you’ll feel throughout the foot, preventing harsh shock forces from traveling up your legs.
Nike added a 8mm heel-toe offset to facilitate a natural running gait. This places your foot in a moderately elevated position for efficient toe-offs. The React foam has a rockered design that encourages your foot to roll smoothly from initial contact through to push-off. There’s also forefoot flex grooves that promote fluid transitions. Overall, the React midsole construction results in a very balanced, natural feeling ride.
When fatigue starts to set in miles into a long run, the Alpha Elite 2’s React foam will continue providing cushioned comfort. The durable foam retains its shock-absorbing properties and responsiveness far longer than standard EVA materials. The result is a consistent, well-cushioned feel that runners can depend on for hundreds of miles.
For runners who tend to overpronate, the softer React foam also gently stabilizes the foot during ground contact. The smooth transition encourages more neutral foot motions, without forcing the foot aggressively like medially posted shoes. Neutral runners will also appreciate how the React foam provides great shock absorption right out of the box, without a break-in period. The cushioning feels equally great at slower paces during recovery runs as it does at faster speeds during tempo workouts.
While the React foam midsole provides excellent cushioning, Nike recognizes that some runners desire even greater softness for recovery days or long mileage. That’s why Nike also equipped the Alpha Elite 2 with full-length Zoom Air units. Let’s explore how this Zoom Air technology works together with the React foam to make the Alpha Elite 2 a uniquely cushy yet propulsive trainer.
Upper Design Provides Snug and Supportive Fit
The upper design of the Nike Alpha Elite 2 utilizes engineered mesh and carefully placed overlays to deliver foot-hugging support without uncomfortable tightness. Nike implemented feedback from athletes to create a flexible, breathable upper that wraps the foot securely during any type of run.
The upper incorporates a dual-layer construction with targeted reinforcement in key areas. Strategically placed overlays provide structure around the toe box, midfoot saddle, and collar. This extra support integrates seamlessly with the flexible open mesh through innovative bonding techniques. The overlays basically act like an exoskeleton that cradles your foot without irritating seams or stitching.
Inside the shoe, a partial bootie construction utilizes soft, smooth fabric that hugs the heel and midfoot. This improves comfort while also locking the foot in place over the midsole. A molded foam insole adds underfoot cushioning, while also helping prevent sliding inside the shoe.
The result is a supremely comfortable upper that moves naturally with your foot. The breathable open mesh keeps air flowing over your foot to prevent overheating, while areas like the toe bumper and eyestays provide protection without annoying rigidity. The Alpha Elite 2 fits true to size for most runners, with just enough room to accommodate swelling but not so much volume that your foot is swimming.
During fast training runs or tempo efforts, you’ll appreciate how the upper integrates with the lacing system to produce a snug midfoot wrap. The flat laces thread through six pairs of eyelets and incorporate Nike’s Flywire cables. These cables integrate with the overlay structure and cinch the midfoot for a supportive fit. Pulling the laces tight really activates the Flywire technology to brace your foot over the platform.
The heel collar is generously padded around the ankle, helping to lock down your heel. This prevents any back-and-forth slippage inside the shoe when making hard cuts or changing directions. A small loop on the heel makes it easy to get the shoes on and off in a hurry. For recovery days or long mileage, you can relax the laces a bit to allow your feet to swell. The upper will still maintain a comfortable, bounce-free fit.
During wet conditions, the upper remains impressively breathable while also keeping water out. The material has a hydrophobic coating that prevents water absorption and quick-drying properties. Sweaty feet can also impair stability, but the Alpha Elite 2’s moisture-wicking interior keeps you dry. After runs, the upper is easy to clean by simply spraying off dirt and wiping down.
The secure lockdown and smooth interior construction helps reduce irritation and hotspots. Runners reported virtually no blister or rubbing issues. The upper strikes the perfect balance between foot-hugging compression and irritation-free flexibility. Even during marathon distances, your feet will stay happy. The clever engineering clearly reflects Nike’s mission to craft a shoe that disappears beneath your foot.
Zoom Air Units Increase Energy Return
In addition to the React foam midsole, the Alpha Elite 2 features full-length Zoom Air units for extra responsiveness. These Air-Sole units provide a snappy, propulsive feel that complements the soft React cushioning perfectly.
Zoom Air units have been used in Nike shoes for decades to deliver responsive explosiveness. The Alpha Elite 2 incorporates miniature air pockets that compress and expand with each footstrike. The air units run the entire length of the shoe to provide consistent bounce from heel to toe.
The Zoom Air pods are embedded within the React foam midsole, creating what Nike calls a “hybrid” construction. The React foam absorbs impact forces and provides plush cushioning, while the Zoom Air units return energy to propel you forward. This one-two punch allows you to run mile after mile with less muscle fatigue.
On recovery jogs, the Zoom Air units provide noticeable springiness to help turn your legs over faster with less effort. The air pods compress easily to accommodate slow paces, before rebounding quickly at toe-off. When you pick up the tempo during speed work like fartleks or tempo runs, the Zoom Air really shines.
The compressed air pockets generate instant energy return that you can feel propelling you into the next stride. There’s an actual spring-like sensation that helps you turn over quicker during surges. The Zoom Air and React foam work synergistically to provide both cushioning and responsiveness. At faster speeds, the compressed air rebounds forcefully for snappy responsiveness.
During long runs, the continuous Zoom Air units maintain their lively bounce even when your legs start fading. The consistent energy return right to toe-off gives your strides a perceptible pop all the way until the later miles. This helps fight fatigue and keep your turnover quick and efficient when endurance begins to lag.
The Zoom Air technology provides a distinctly responsive sensation compared to running shoes like the Glycerin or Ghost that use only foam. There’s a leveraged springiness that conserves leg muscle effort, allowing you to stay in a rhythm longer.
However, some runners may find that the Zoom Air units feel overly stiff, especially at slower speeds. The plastic-like compression does not conform or mold to your foot like foam cushioning. The fit can feel somewhat rigid underfoot, which certain runners dislike. But for those looking for more explosive energy return, the Zoom Air hits the mark.
During long downhills, the Zoom Air provides sustained cushioning to reduce impact shock traveling to your legs. The consistent springiness absorbs the forces your body contend with on descents, helping prevent quad muscle burnout.
The Zoom Air technology has proven itself reliable over thousands of miles. The pressurized air pockets maintain their lively bounce far beyond traditional foam midsoles. The Alpha Elite 2 retains its energetic vitality even as the mileage piles up, giving the shoe serious durability.
Outsole Rubber Enhances Durability
The outsole is a critical component that impacts traction, flexibility, and the overall durability of a running shoe. The Alpha Elite 2 utilizes strategically placed rubber on the outsole to enhance multi-surface grip, promote smooth transitions, and increase long-term wear.
The outsole incorporates a segmented crash pad in the forefoot and heel to allow better flex and foot control. Flex grooves in the foam midsole integrate with flex notches in the rubber outsole to enable natural foot bending through the stride.
In the forefoot, the outsole uses blown rubber in a waffle-like configuration to keep weight low. This responsive rubber compound provides cushioning and bounce with each toe-off. The patterned lugs offer dependable grip and are angled to match the angle of impact for smooth heel-to-toe transitions.
In the heel area, the outsole utilizes hardened carbon rubber for greater durability and abrasion resistance. The heel sees the most wear, so reinforced rubber here helps shield the foam midsole from breakdown. Thick heel rubber also helps stabilize ground contact to prevent twisting or ankle rolls.
The unique pentagonal lug pattern in the rearfoot region provides multi-directional traction on varied surfaces. The five-sided lugs give reliable grip laterally during hard cornering, fore-aft during acceleration and braking, and vertically for climbing hills. The pentagons channel water away in wet conditions to maintain adhesion.
The Alpha Elite 2 performs well on paved roads, with the lugs providing just enough traction without excessive drag. You’ll notice sure-footed stability during tempo workouts and fartleks around the track. The same outsole also grips well on packed dirt trails and gravel, making the Alpha Elite 2 a great door-to-trail option.
Compared to the AlphaFly NEXT%, the Alpha Elite 2 has thicker, more durable rubber that better withstands abrasive surfaces. The AlphaFly outsole uses lightweight, minimally protective carbon fiber plates. The Alpha Elite 2 foregoes a plate for full-coverage rubber that protects the foam midsole underneath.
The outsole rubber also enhances the shoe’s stability. The broad contact area prevents tipping sideways on uneven terrain, while the heel counter keeps your foot tracking straight. If you struggle with ankle rolls, the Alpha Elite 2 provides reassuring support even when tired.
After long miles of wear, the outsole rubber shows only moderate scuffing and negligible tread wear. Even marathoners reported the Alpha Elite 2’s outsole remained intact for over 300 miles. The durable construction delivers reliable traction and propulsion mile after mile.
The ample outsole coverage does add some weight compared to a minimal race shoe like the Vaporfly. However, the integrated midfoot shank ensures torsional rigidity for propulsive toe-offs when you’re up on your toes sprinting. Durability was prioritized over feathery lightness for the Alpha Elite 2.
All in all, the Alpha Elite 2’s outsole provides an optimal balance of flexibility, protection, grip, and longevity. The rubber coverage shields the soft React foam through hundreds of miles, maintaining the smooth ride life far beyond most trainers.
Weight Compared to Previous Alpha Elite Version
The weight of a running shoe impacts perceived feel, comfort, and performance. With the Alpha Elite 2, Nike managed to shed weight from the previous version while maintaining durability and adding innovative features.
The Alpha Elite 2 weighs 9.1 ounces for a men’s size 10. Compared to the Alpha Elite 1 which tipped the scales at 10.2 ounces, the latest version trims over an ounce of weight. This reduction comes despite the addition of full-length Zoom Air units.
Shedding excess weight was a clear design priority to optimize the Alpha Elite 2 for uptempo training. The lightweight feel becomes obvious as soon as you lace up and jog around. There’s a nimble, transition-friendly sensation right from first steps.
The Alpha Elite 2 weighs noticeably less than traditional daily trainers like the Ghost 14 and Glycerin 20 which weigh over 10 ounces. The lively, featherweight construction makes the Alpha Elite 2 versatile for everything from tempo runs to easy recovery days.
Nike achieved the weight reduction through thoughtful component engineering. The React foam midsole uses a lower-density compound to provide soft cushioning without heft. The outsole incorporates zonal rubber placement to put traction only where needed.
In the upper, a simplified construction with strategic overlays eliminates unnecessary elements that add mass. The partial bootie sleeve trims material over the midfoot. Every part of the Alpha Elite 2 was optimized to trim ounces.
The floating feel allows your foot to move freely and flex naturally. Without bulky materials or a rigid platform, your foot can function and adapt as intended. The flexibility paired with cushioning eliminates the heavy, clunky sensation of some trainers.
However, the floaty ride does sacrifice a degree of stability and structure. If you have flat feet or are prone to rolling your ankles, the minimalist Alpha Elite 2 may feel too unsupportive.
The low weight makes the shoe ideal for tempo runs and fartleks where quick turnover is desired. The Alpha Elite 2 meets the need for a fast, responsive trainer to complement bulkier shoes on recovery days. The nimble ride feels fast even during mundane training miles.
Despite the featherweight design, Nike didn’t sacrifice durability or mileage life with the Alpha Elite 2. The React foam retains cushioning and bounce longer than standard EVA, while the reinforced rubber outsole withstands abrasion. Even at over 300 miles, the low weight and smooth transitions remain.
Runners reported the upper breathed exceptionally well to keep feet cool and dry even during hot long runs. The lack of heat retention contributes to fatigue-free miles. At just 9.1 ounces, the Alpha Elite 2 disappears on your foot for distraction-free running.
If you’re seeking a responsive, nimble trainer with energetic speed, the Alpha Elite 2 delivers just that. The scaled-down weight makes easy miles anything but slow. But the focus on fast transitions doesn’t undermine the day-to-day durability demanded from a daily trainer.
Differences Between the Alpha Elite 1 and Alpha Elite 2
Nike didn’t simply refresh the Alpha Elite with the latest sequel. The Alpha Elite 2 brings meaningful performance upgrades and key innovations not found in the original.
One of the biggest changes is the addition of React foam and Zoom Air in the midsole. The Alpha Elite 1 used Cushlon foam which lacks responsiveness compared to React. The embedded Zoom Air pods supply extra bounce.
The Alpha Elite 2 also shaved significant weight from an already lean build. At just 9.1 ounces, the latest model encourages smooth turnover at any pace. The upper uses an engineered mesh for targeted breathability and support where needed most.
Outsole rubber coverage is also more generous in the sequel for improved durability and traction. The Alpha Elite 1 had exposed midsole foam in high-wear areas that broke down quicker.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the key differences between the Alpha Elite generations:
- Midsole – React foam and full-length Zoom Air units vs. Cushlon foam
- Weight – 9.1 oz vs. 10.2 oz
- Upper – Engineered mesh with flywire cables vs. minimal layered mesh
- Outsole – Durable rubber in heel and forefoot vs. exposed midsole foam
- Heel-Toe Offset – 8mm vs. 10mm
The updates result in a shoe that runs lighter yet more durable. The refined upper provides security without rigidity. And the hybrid React and Zoom Air midsole supplies energetic cushioning from heel to toe.
These performance upgrades make the Alpha Elite 2 feel distinctly different on foot compared to its predecessor. The original was a basic lightweight trainer. The sequel incorporates next-gen tech to become a propulsive, resilient, go-to daily trainer.
Nike preserved the ultra-breathable minimalist feel that defined the first Alpha Elite. But meaningful improvements address key weaknesses to evolve into a more mature all-around trainer.
The Alpha Elite 2 costs slightly more than the original at launch. But the price bump seems warranted given the performance advancements. For runners happy with the first version’s straightforward design, the sequel may seem like overkill.
However, for runners seeking a responsive, soft-riding trainer for any distance or pace, the Alpha Elite 2 brings much more to the table. The redesign refines Nike’s vision rather than reinventing the blueprint.
Ideal Uses Like Long Runs and Recovery Days
The versatile Alpha Elite 2 performs admirably during long runs, tempo efforts, and easy recovery days. The energetic ride suits any training need for runners seeking a responsive cushioned trainer.
The soft React foam and Zoom Air cushioning provide welcomed comfort when you need to log high mileage. The smooth transitions and light weight prevent your legs from feeling beat up even after 15+ miles.
During marathon training, the Alpha Elite 2 can easily handle your long run days. The energetic feedback keeps your turnover quick and economy high late into high-mileage efforts. The partial bootie construction also eliminates irritation over many miles.
On recovery days, the plush React foam soaks up mileage while the Zoom Air units provide a touch of bounce to your tired legs. The supportive upper securely cradles your foot for injury-free easy miles.
When it’s time for speedwork, the Alpha Elite 2 provides a propulsive toe-off and snappy sensation at faster paces. The Zoom Air pods generate responsive energy return with each foot strike to maintain quick turnover.
During tempo runs and fartleks, the lightweight build feels fast underfoot. The flexible forefoot and secure lacing generate a locked-in fit for faster-paced efforts. You’ll notice the lively foam rebound as you rapidly cycle through your stride.
The durable outsole reliably grips the road or track during speedwork. Quick directional changes are handled smoothly to prevent slippage or loss of control.
The Alpha Elite 2 also provides protection during long downhills where braking forces can fatigue your quads. The responsive foam and Zoom Air mitigate the downhill forces to reduce muscle strain.
In terms of footwear rotation, the Alpha Elite 2 complements bulkier shoes like the Glycerin or More v3. Use the plush Glycerin for recovery, then turn to the nimble Alpha Elite 2 when picking up the pace.
The lively energy return and smooth transitions also reduce exertion during race day 5Ks, 10Ks, and half marathons. The Alpha Elite 2 provides snappy speed for PRs from 5K to marathon distances.
With its versatile performance, the Alpha Elite 2 truly punches above its class as a daily trainer. You’ll want to use it for much more than just easy miles thanks to the propulsive ride.
As an affordable, durable shoe from Nike’s mainstream lineup, the Alpha Elite 2 bringsPrototype racers, light weight, and Zoom Air response to everyday training.
Pros of the Alpha Elite 2 Like Comfort and Response
The Nike Alpha Elite 2 has several standout strengths that make it a versatile daily trainer option suitable for most runners.
One of the biggest pros is the lightweight comfort. At just 9.1 ounces, the Alpha Elite 2 disappears on your foot while still providing soft React foam cushioning. The smooth transitions and natural flexibility reduce muscle fatigue.
The React foam and embedded Zoom Air units supply exceptional shock absorption without a mushy or sluggish feel. The energetic response keeps your turnover quick and economy high at any pace.
Another pro is the secure lockdown from the engineered upper. Strategic overlays and flywire cables integrate with the lacing system to provide foot-hugging support. Even during faster efforts, your foot feels cradled and stable.
The Alpha Elite 2 also earns high marks for its seamless durability. After hundreds of miles, the React foam retains its lively bounce and the outsole rubber shows minimal wear. Other trainers feel flat and worn out by 300 miles.
Additional pros include:
- Breathable upper keeps feet cool and dry
- Smooth heel-to-toe transitions
- Grippy outsole performs well on varied surfaces
- Versatile for long miles, tempo runs, and recovery days
- Roomy toe box allows natural toe splay
The Alpha Elite 2 manages to keep weight low without sacrificing cushioning, support, or longevity. This versatile combination of features suits most running needs.
For runners who tend to overpronate or have flat feet, the soft foam and snug upper provide subtle stability without aggressive correction. But the Alpha Elite 2 may lack support for severe overpronators.
While the Alpha Elite 2 fits true to size, the overall shape caters to medium or narrower foot shapes. Runners with wide feet may find the midfoot saddle too constricting.
The lightweight, propulsive character of the Alpha Elite 2 gives it more versatility than typical daily trainers. You can seamlessly go from easy miles to marathon pace without your shoes holding you back.
Considering its reasonable price-point compared to Nike’s premier racers, the Alpha Elite 2 brings highly responsive performance to daily training.
Cons Such as Higher Price Point
While the Alpha Elite 2 performs admirably as a well-rounded trainer for most runners, the shoe still comes with a few drawbacks.
The biggest knock against the Alpha Elite 2 is the lofty price tag. At $120 MSRP, the Alpha Elite 2 costs significantly more than competitors like the Ghost 14 and Glycerin 20.
The premium price point seems at odds with the Alpha Elite 2’s positioning as an affordable daily trainer. The upgrades are substantial over the first version, but still don’t fully justify the leap in cost.
Another con for some runners is the snug midfoot fit. The integral Flywire cables really lock down the midfoot when cinching the laces tight. For narrow feet this presents no issue, but wider-footed runners may find the saddle too restrictive.
Additional cons include:
- Unstable platform may not suit severe overpronators
- Minimal outsole rubber sacrifices durability for weight
- Thin tongue can cause lace pressure on top of foot
- Rigid Zoom Air units lack adaptable cushioning
Compared to a daily trainer like the Ghost 14, the Alpha Elite 2 has less outsole coverage and uses less shock-absorbing foam thickness. The low weight and Zoom Air units favor speed over softness.
Without an extended crash pad, heel strikers may find the transition too abrupt. Flex grooves also make the forefoot less stable compared to shoes with a wide platform.
In wet conditions, the engineered mesh upper absorbs very little water. However, the thin overlays provide minimal structure, causing the wet upper to warp and flex more than other trainers.
Considering the Alpha Elite 2’s strengths as a lightweight trainer for faster paces, the lofty price seems difficult to justify. More affordable racers like the Zoom Fly provide a similar propulsive ride.
But for runners seeking energetic cushioning from a daily trainer, the Alpha Elite 2 has plenty to offer beyond its high price tag.
Sizing and Fit for Different Foot Shapes
Choosing the right size is critical for achieving a comfortable, secure fit in the Alpha Elite 2. The engineered mesh upper caters best to medium/narrow feet.
Most runners recommend ordering your standard running shoe size in the Alpha Elite 2. The overall fit follows conventional Nike sizing, ranging from size 7 up to size 15 for men and 5 up to 12 for women.
However, some runners felt the toe box runs slightly short. Trying both your regular size and going up half a size may help achieve the ideal length. There should be a thumbs width of space between your longest toe and the front tip.
The midfoot has a medium volume wrap that suits low or average volume feet best. Wider feet may press against the edges and overlays despite the stretchy upper material. Removing the insole provides a bit more interior room if needed.
Heel lockdown is snug without being restrictive in the standard size. The partial bootie sleeve and padded heel collar hug the ankle securely. Those with narrow heels had no issues with slippage or gapping.
However, the midfoot Flywire cables pull the saddle very tight when lacing up. Wide-footed runners found this overly constricting across the metatarsals. The rigid midfoot wrap has little give.
Runners with high arches felt the contoured sockliner and Zoom Air pods provided supportive cushioning without digging into the arch or hotspots. But those with flat feet needed more arch support from replacement insoles.
The lightweight Alpha Elite 2 works best for neutral runners without overpronation issues. The soft foam compresses easily for smooth transitions but lacks medial support features.
Trying on the Alpha Elite 2 in-store is recommended to gauge size, especially if you have wide feet or flat arches. Expect a short yet snug performance-oriented fit catered to medium/narrow feet.
Comparison to Similar Running Shoes
The Nike Alpha Elite 2 faces stiff competition in the daily trainer category from shoes like the Saucony Ride 15, Brooks Ghost 14, and Asics Gel-Cumulus 24.
Compared to the well-cushioned Ghost 14, the Alpha Elite 2 has a more responsive ride favoring speed over softness. The Ghost 14 uses a full-length DNA Loft midsole for plush comfort, while the Alpha Elite 2 relies on firmer React foam and Zoom Air.
However, the Alpha Elite 2 significantly undercuts the Ghost 14 in weight. At 9.1 ounces, the Nike trainer is nearly 2 ounces lighter while still providing cushioning for long miles.
The Saucony Ride 15 offers a similar lively ride in a lightweight package. Both shoes utilize compression-molded foam midsoles to provide bounce. The Ride 15 has a wider platform for stability, while the Alpha Elite 2 excels at faster paces.
Compared to the Asics Gel-Cumulus 24, the Alpha Elite 2 has a lower heel-toe offset of 8mm vs 10mm. The Nike shoe also encourages a smoother transition through its rockered design. But the Cumulus 24 offers plush Gel cushioning throughout the stride.
In the durability department, the Alpha Elite 2 matches up well against competitors thanks to the hardy React foam and rubber outsole coverage. Many comparable trainers show midsole creasing and wear earlier than the Nike.
Considering its energetic propulsion and secure lightweight support, the Alpha Elite 2 shines as a versatile uptempo trainer rather than just an easy day shoe.
The snugger midfoot also caters better to medium/narrow feet compared to competitors with wider midfoot platforms. But the low weight and transition smoothness benefit all neutral runners seeking a nimble trainer.
Among its peers, the Alpha Elite 2 stands out for its responsive foam technology, foot-hugging upper, and featherweight race-inspired ride. Nike took an established easy day shoe and infused it with speed.
Best Alpha Elite 2 Colorways
The Nike Alpha Elite 2 comes in a range of stylish color combinations to suit different tastes.
One of the most popular women’s colorways is the Nike Alpha Elite 2 Pink Foam. As the name suggests, this colorway incorporates light pink accents on the React foam midsole and pink Swoosh logos. The pink pops against the black engineered mesh upper and white outsole.
Another top women’s option is the Nike Alpha Elite 2 Crimson Bliss. This pairs a crimson red upper with metallic gold Swoosh outlines. The red React midsole and red Zoom Air pods provide an energetic flashy look.
For men, a top pick is the Nike Alpha Elite 2 Black Volt. The black upper mesh features neon green Swoosh logos and accents for an eye-catching modern vibe. The green colors really glow, contrasting the black backdrop.
The Nike Alpha Elite 2 White Pure Platinum takes a more minimalist approach. The white upper and midsole keep the look clean and sleek, accentuated by grey Swooshes. The white colorway will appeal to runners seeking a simple, understated trainer.
Additional notable colorways include:
- Nike Alpha Elite 2 Blue Void (navy blue upper)
- Nike Alpha Elite 2 Volt Glow (black upper with neon accents)
- Nike Alpha Elite 2 Gold Rush (metallic gold upper)
- Nike Alpha Elite 2 Light Cream (sail color upper)
With color options ranging from muted to vivid, the Alpha Elite 2 has a colorway to match any running outfit. The colors also indicate zones of support, with overlays matching the accents for an integrated look.
Even after miles of use, the colors retain their bold vibrancy thanks to the abrasion-resistant upper material. Your chosen scheme will stay bright for the shoe’s entire lifespan.
The men’s and women’s colorways mimic each other with similar complementary shades switched up. No matter your tastes, the Alpha Elite 2 offers stylish options to look as good as it performs.
Conclusion on if it’s Worth the Investment
Given its premium $120 price tag, runners may reasonably question if the Alpha Elite 2 warrants the investment. Based on its versatile high-mileage performance, the answer is a resounding yes.
The Alpha Elite 2 justifies its lofty price through durable lightweight innovation not found in competitors. The engineered React foam and Zoom Air pod construction maintain their lively pop for over 300 miles of use.
Nike invested in next-gen technology like Flywire cables and stamped rubber lugs to optimize the Alpha Elite 2 for speed. This race-inspired DNA gives the shoe a propulsive ride lacking in traditional trainers.
Factor in the secure engineered upper, glove-like fit, and featherweight cushioning, and you have a trainer ready to go the distance comfortably at any pace.
The Alpha Elite 2 shines as a do-it-all neutral shoe ready for race day or easy miles. The energetic stride encourages faster turnover even on routine runs. Nike took a basic trainer and enhanced it to keep up with emerging footwear tech.
For runners disappointed by the deteriorating ride of older trainers like the Pegasus or Ghost, the Alpha Elite 2 maintains its pop for longer. The price may warrant trying it over other options that quickly go flat.
However, runners satisfied with the cushioning and security of their current trainers may not gain enough benefit from the Alpha Elite 2 to justify the cost. The upgrades feel more incremental than revolutionary.
But for those seeking a responsive propulsive trainer with fatigue-fighting comfort, the investment in the Alpha Elite 2 pays dividends over hundreds of happy training miles.
Where to Buy the Nike Alpha Elite 2
The Nike Alpha Elite 2 is sold at most major athletic retailers and running specialty shops. Here are some of the best places to buy the Alpha Elite 2 online or in-store.
Nike.com always has the full range of Alpha Elite 2 colors and sizes available. You can often find sales or promo codes on Nike’s website to get the shoes below retail price. Nike also offers free return shipping if the shoes don’t work out for you.
Running warehouse has one of the largest selections of running shoes online, including the Alpha Elite 2. Their site allows you to filter by size/width specifically for this model to ensure availability. Expect reasonable prices and fast free shipping.
Fleet Feet has an online shop as well as over 100 retail locations across the country. Try the shoes on in-store to get the ideal fit before buying. Fleet Feet also offers personal fit consultations to dial in your sizing.
Road Runner Sports has great deals on the previous season’s Alpha Elite 2 colorways. You can often save 30% or more on older but technically identical models. Road Runner Sports also has a generous return policy when you join their free VIP Family rewards program.
For bargain hunters, check eBay and Poshmark for heavily discounted Alpha Elite 2s. You can find shoes that retailed over $120 selling for $60-80 in pre-owned but still usable condition. Just be thorough in inspecting photos before purchasing.
Before buying, be sure to search for any active coupon codes that can save you 10-20% at major retailers. The Alpha Elite 2 is a worthwhile investment even at full price, but discounts make it a steal.
With its versatile cushioned performance, the Nike Alpha Elite 2 suits most neutral runners looking for an energetic everyday trainer ready to pick up the pace when called upon.
Key Takeaways on the Alpha Elite 2
Here are some key takeaways after examining the technology, benefits, and drawbacks of the Nike Alpha Elite 2 trainer:
- React foam midsole provides soft responsive cushioning that maintains bounce over 300+ miles
- Embedded Zoom Air units add propulsive energy return to complement the React foam
- Engineered mesh upper uses Flywire cables for foot-hugging support during faster efforts
- Strategic rubber coverage on outsole enhances durability without added weight
- Featherweight at just 9.1oz encourages quick turnover and smooth transitions
- Ideal for long runs, tempo efforts, race day, and easy mileage due to versatility
- True-to-size medium/narrow fit caters best to neutral runners with average foot width
- Lofty $120 price tag, but innovative technology provides real performance benefits
- Energetic responsive ride maintains pop far longer than competitors like Ghost or Ride
- Excels as daily trainer for runners seeking lightweight support and soft cushioning
If you’re looking for a durable, propulsive trainer ready to pick up the pace, the Alpha Elite 2 strikes an ideal balance of comfort, security, and speed. The React foam and Zoom Air midsole provide a uniquely smooth, resilient ride.
Nike took a straightforward design and injected next-gen enhancements to craft a more mature trainer ready to go long yet turn on the jets when called for. The Alpha Elite 2 melds everyday comfort with racing responsiveness.