Details
Brand
Nike
Heel To Toe Drop
3mm
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
No
Terrain
Road
Type
Lightweight
Key Features
• Rubber outsole with pods and flex grooves.• Lightweight dual-density Phylon foam.• Mesh upper with no-sew overlays combines support and breathability.• Padded footbed• Breathe Tech system enhances midfoot fit and support• Pressure Mapping points to help absorb shock
Upper
The entire shoe above of the sole is the upper. Hyperfuse and mesh make up the upper portion of this shoe. These two features ensure chafing is kept at bay, so sockless running is possible. Hyperfuse was designed in 2010 when Nike’s basketball shoes were observed to have extreme wear and tear. Hyperfuse was soon being utilized in many of Nike’s other sports shoes. Hyperfuse is called such because of the fusing of 3 layers together: one for stability, one for breathability, and one for durability. These layers are fused together using heat and pressure, with the result being a lightweight high-quality running shoe. In addition, the lightweight mesh of the upper is considered a no-sew design.
Midsole
The midsole includes materials between the outsole and the upper. The Nike FS Lite Run 3 features a dual-density foam midsole for lightweight and responsive cushioning. They also call it a ‘co-molded’ midsole, which means it uses 2 densities of foam for enhanced responsiveness. This midsole is flexible and helps to accommodate natural freedom of movement.
Outsole
The Nike FS Lite Run 3 features targeted rubber outsole pods for enhanced durability. These anatomically placed rubber pods are also designed for forefoot responsiveness.
Breathability
This shoe offers no-sew overlays for enhanced breathability. But, it’s the honeycomb mesh, pretty much covering the entire shoe, that allows for a cool and, likely, sweat-free run. Plus, the perforations on the upper also angle out for extra breathability.
Comfort
The Nike FS Lite Run 3 comes in narrow, medium, and wide. It is considered a ‘true fit’ shoe, where a size 6 really means a size 6. However, some runners report the shoe runs a little large and slightly wide. Those runners recommend getting half a size smaller than usual.;Then, use a ruler to measure the heel-to-toe length in inches. Do this on both sides because right and left feet are often slightly different in size. And, be sure to measure your feet in the afternoon because feet generally swell in the afternoon. Finally, use a Nike size chart to convert the size. For example, a women’s size 6 will measure 9” heel-to-toe, a men’s size 6 will measure 9 3/8” heel-to-toe. The easiest way to find this is to go to Nike.com, type in the shoe name, and then click on “size chart”. It is important to note, however, that some runners report a tightening in the upper fabrics after being washed.
Style
Women sizes range from 5-12, with half-sizes available. Sizes 5, 5.5, 10.5, 11.5, and 12 are the most popular and sell out quickly. Comes in Gamma Blue/Black/White, Wolf Grey/Soar/White/Black, Wolf Grey/Cool Grey/White, and Black/White.;Men sizes range from 7-15. However, half sizes are not available over 13. Sizes 7, 12.5, 14, and 15 are sometimes difficult to find. Comes in Black, Black/Turquoise, Blue/White/Volt, Dark/Gray/Red, Black/White, Gray/Black/Red, Gray/White, Gray/Blue, Black/Anthracite/Black as well as Blue/Black. Runners complement the fact that the design of the shoe they received was what was shown in the picture, and, of course, you get a vibrant Swoosh logo, but not on the side…it’s on the top!
Durability
You may ask, “How can anything so light, last very long?”. For enhanced durability, this shoe features targeted rubber outsole pods. Most runners compliment the durability of this shoe.
Protection
Studies show that changing your running footwear often can make you stronger, faster, and less prone to injury. Correlations have been found between running in a variety of shoes and reduced injuries. Each time you run with a different pair, your feet are forced to interact with the ground differently – your stride becomes different, how you strike the ground changes, and thus your toe-off changes as well. This reduces repetitive stress and strengthens new connective tissues and muscles.;The laces on the Nike FS Lite Run 3 have been redone due to concerns of laces coming undone during the run on the previous model. The new laces have more texture that help hold your bow in place throughout your entire run.
Responsiveness
This shoe features flex grooves as well as responsive cushioning for maximum comfort and movement during your run. The dual-density midsole is also responsible for the responsive cushioning.
Support
No-sew overlays offer support, but also the Breath Tech design contributes to lightweight midfoot support. The no-sew overlay is a synthetic skin that adds extra support without hindering airflow. This synthetic skin is called TPU, or Thermoplastic Urethane. It’s a flexible plastic used for stabilizing purposes. The molded sockliner offers additional support and a great fit.
Terrain
These shoes are primarily used for training on road surfaces. However, people who work on their feet all day report that these shoes are very comfortable and supportive. This shoe features hexagonal lugs that provide multidirectional traction. A hexagon is a plane figure with six straight sides and angles, all equal in measurement. Whereas lugs, on a shoe, refer to a thick rubber sole with deep indentations that improve the stability and traction of footwear.
Price
Great shoe for a great price. You can even place these in the washer, and runners report they come out looking brand new.
Drop
The Nike FS Lite Run 3 boasts a 3mm differential which is very desirable to the many runners who are interested in the theory behind barefoot running. Along with the weight of this shoe, the 3mm drop falls within the minimalist realm which may help to strengthen your foot and ankle muscles by gradually challenging them to work harder than they would in traditional running shoes. Runners with high arches tend to adjust faster to minimalist running shoes. This is likely due to the fact that high arches naturally require less support when compared to those with low flat arches.
Stability
Typically, the more minimalist the shoe the less the stability is offered, and more work of the ankles and feet is required. However, with the Nike FS Lite Run, the flex grooves promote the natural range of motion for a smooth and efficient stride. The natural range of motion is essential for stability during your run. The hexagonal lugs, mentioned above, also enhance the stability of this shoe.
Bottom Line
Nike was the Greek Goddess of victory, so the Nike FS Lite Run 3 allows you to up your pace, and maybe even achieve a new PR with its lightweight minimal design. This shoe features a dual density foam midsole for lightweight and responsive cushioning. It also has Breath Tech construction for midfoot support, as well as flex grooves to promote the natural range of motion for a smooth and efficient stride. Finding the right running shoe for you is a personal and ongoing challenge. It pays to learn about your feet and determine the best type of shoe to support your build and style. That being said, I highly recommend trying the Nike FS Lite Run 3 if you are looking for a lightweight and breathable, yet durable, running shoe.
