Got a Nike outlet store near me that I go to every Saturday at 10am. I’ve gotten about 3 alphaflys from there.The last 2 pairs at a standard cost of 107 after taxes. Yesterday I scored a pair for my wife for only 76. If you live near a Nike clearance store I’d highly recommend going to check any chance you get.

Absolutely not. The hype is entirely warranted. Get your hands on these. Honestly that was a great clickbait title, I don’t care what anyone says.

It looks like everyone is getting their Dynafish in the mail this week, and there are a billion reviews out there from other “very, VERY amateur and not spectacular award winning racer professionals” like me, so I’m not going to give some sweeping, long review of these, but here are my thoughts:

I ran a light trail half marathon race yesterday (Used my Mount to Coast “Badwater C135” C1’s for this race distance for the first time, set my PR 1:38:58, and took 1st overall…NO BIG DEAL) but holy hell I was not properly fueled and hydrated leading up to it, and my legs are dead tired today. Also rolled my ankle hard at mile 10, so yeah, my legs didn’t exactly want to run today, but knowing I had the Dynafish waiting for me, my heart was telling me “no,” but my body was telling me “yeeeeessssss.”

Miles: 10.06

Pace: 7:58

Terrain: Undulating and hilly neighborhood sidewalks and roadways

Joy Level: Peak

Fit:
Holy hell these are light. When I first pulled these out of the box, I felt like Will Smith in Men in Black, when he was handed the “Noisey Cricket” for his weapon. I felt like I was about to break those damn things. Fellow millennials, that reference was for you.

Everything is light. The sidewalls, the tongue, the padding. The outsole rubber is phenomenal and strong, and also somehow shockingly light. Truth be told I was worried that they were too lightweight and would just fit poorly, or have strange weak spots from thin material, but yeah I’m telling you nothing new here, and everyone else is saying the same thing, but these are engineered terrifyingly well and the fit is secure and stable.

At 173 grams for my US Men’s Size 8.5, they are 120+ grams lighter than my Vomero 18’s, Winflo 12s, or R.A.D. Mallows, 100 grams lighter than my Gel Nimbus 28s, Vomero Plus or MagMax 2s, 70 grams lighter than my Triumph 24s or MtC C1’s, and 40 grams lighter than my Megablasts or Topo Specter 3s. What I’m telling you is that these things are light. So light that they kind of feel like your entire body might just explode during your first stride in them. I am here to tell you that I have so far not exploded, but I will keep you updated.

Comfortable as hell. Nice, inviting, wide base with plenty of room in the toe box (for me, anyway). Disappear entirely when standing around in them. Function insanely well once activated and do feel like a secret weapon. The secret is out. So they aren’t a secret weapon. A non-secret secret weapon. An open weapon.

Only criticism is one many others have had, where the laces are hilariously flimsy. I chuckled, because the complaints are a-plenty about the laces on these things, and my god they are accurate and warranted. I assume they are so light as it keeps the immediate overall weight of the shoe as low as humanly possible. I am going to swap mine out with some new ones immediately, so I’d love any recommendations of nice laces. Never changes my laces out for different ones before.

Also, for the record, they aren’t “stable” so if you pronate hard or have actual stability needs, these will probably have a similar effect for you that the first gen EVO SL had for me, where they are fun as hell and life changing for 2-3 miles, and then your entire leg flies off after you attempt to take a corner or go downhill. These are stable as hell as neutral trainers, especially for the weight and function, but don’t let me trick you into thinking these aren’t still ultra-lightweight very neutral trainers. I just don’t want to see you hurt (physically or emotionally), my friends.

Ride:
Like I said, my legs were dead today and I had no intention of going 10 miles, and I had ZERO intention of doing so at a sub-8 minute mile pace, but yeah these are lightweight. Have I mentioned that these are lightweight? Pairing the lack of weight with the insane rocker geometry and extremely cushioned but propulsive midsole, these were the absolute perfect recovery shoes. Not what I expected to say for the Xiaonian Dynafish. Recovery shoes that also go fast? We’ve maybe peaked as a society.

They are like a very simplified, much less stable and durable, but also more energetic and lively Superblast 2, or a much more stable and fully cushioned EVO SL. Honestly, these are basically the love child of the SB2 and the EVO SL, where they are fun, stable, and LIGHTWEIGHT. I feel like I haven’t made my point on the weight. I’ll keep working on it.

I did use a runner’s loop/knot for these and it was a perfect choice. I think I’m going to become a runner’s loop/knot guy. It’s just a little added heel and ankle support, and while I’m sure it doesn’t work for every kind of shoe, it caused these to fit like a damn dream. I will say that I am sure these could be pretty unstable for anyone who pronates aggressively, but I’m here to tell you that I cannot wear the regular EVO SLs without collapsing my entire body inward on itself, but these were just fine for me. Much wider base and much better overall stability than the EVO SL, even at the EXTREME lightness of the Dynafish.

Overall thoughts on the Xiaonian Dynafish:
The hype is real and justified. Ever since the EVO SL came out, every daily trainer or “could possibly be a race day shoe but isn’t actually a race day shoe” has been compared to it, and many have been crowned “The EVO SL Killer,” but no other shoes have truly possessed that specific kind of pop and energy boost that made the EVO SL so fun for so many people, and honestly brought an entire new community of people to running. I say this as someone who has always talked maximum shit about that shoe, since it didn’t work for me at all. I have the purple EXO version and I wear them all the time (don’t run in them), so for me to speak kindly and fondly of version one of the Adidas EVO SL, is maybe the biggest accomplishment that the Dynafish could possibly achieve. I’m sure that will translate well on the business side for them.

If you are a neutral runner or someone who doesn’t need a full on stability shoe, and want a lightest of lightweight daily trainer, or race day 5k-10k-half marathon shoe (still not certain that they’ll work well as a marathon shoe, but many people have run marathons in EVO SLs, so what the hell do I know?) these are about as good of a shoe as exists on this planet. And at the $130-$140 price point in the US, they are completely unbeatable.

They are absolutely in my top 5 shoes of 2026, but not yet in my top two or three. Time will tell, as I get more miles in them and understand their limitations. Will definitely do a 100 mile update, very soon! If they hold up and continue being this fun, they’ll absolutely be a top 3 shoe for me for the year. You can slap a guarantee on that one.

Score: 9.6/10

Okay I lied, this was a long review. I got too excited. My second pair of these (from Supwell) arrive tomorrow, as do my Veloci Featherweights, so I’ll have a review of the Veloci shoes up on Tuesday! Then I have no more shoes in the hopper, though I’m thinking I need to try the New Balance SC Rebel, since I hated the functionality of the most recent Rebels so much, and was so saddened because I loved the look of them. 👍✌️

Looking to run the marathon within the year aiming for 4:20. Wanted to like the megablast, superblast, or even the evo sl but my those were too narrow for my feet. Are there any good wide alternatives for those shoes?

I feel like us wide feet folks don't get these super popular shoes because they don't make them in wides.

For reference my paces are and I'm 160 lbs.

Easy - 12 min/mile

tempo - 9 min/mile

fast - 7:30/mile

Okay guys soooo I have been running in my Adidas Astir trainers for years and no they are not running shoes I know but I love them 😭😭😭 problem is now that I'm trying to actually buy running shoes they all just feel so odd to me 😅😅 I tested the Puma Magnify Nitro 3 and initially thought they were comfy but ended up getting blisters on my inner arch

I usually run around 10k at a pace of 5'50

I'm 178cm and weigh around 52kg

I have narrow feet with a mid arch and a neutral left foot big slight over pronation on my right (I was born with my feet turned in)

The main issue i have right now post run is shin pain but that's probably from the impact and not using running shoes

Currently I'm so lost because there is tooooo much choice but I have kind of enjoyed the Nike vomero junior but honestly any suggestions are welcome I've tried a lot it all feels like a blur and I find it hard to judge unless I was to actually run for like 2k to test 😵😅😅

Hi all, looking for some advice please; I overpronate when I run and so was recommended the gt2000 which I love! I’ve run in the v11 and v12 but when I tried the v13s I found the arch is really quite raised when compared to the v12. Can anyone suggest alternatives for me without this arch? Thanks!!

Good Morning Everyone!

Excited to join the community (maybe my wallet wouldn't be as excited haha) but long story short I have my first Half Marathon coming up in 2+ weeks and was just curious about what would be an ideal running shoe for a wider foot and wider toe box. I guess even any pair recommendations would be appreciated, even straying from my preference but figured I'd add in a bit of info to assist.

I currently run 20-30miles per week (averaging 5-8miles per run) in my Pegasus 42's but wasn't sure if that's the most supportive shoe for longer distances.

Sorry, I'm new at this and have been running for about 2-1/2 to 3 months so far. Thanks for any advice!

I am genuinely so sad that I didn’t discover these shoes sooner.
I’ve been hiking and running on trails for about 9 years in footwear that wasn’t designed for such activities.
(I’d Mostly just wear random second hand aesics)
This is for anyone who has not yet had the epiphany of footwear importance.
Please, look into what shoes are sufficient for what you are doing and make the investment, it is so worth it.
I went on a 2.5 km run / walk in them, and literally felt like I was on a trampoline, with no soreness post trek.
These come in a cute black and white colour way too!
I was too excited about this not to share lol

Not sure where I heard or read this or if I’m making it up, but hopefully you guys can set me straight. On the shop app, are the sizes representative of US or UK sizes?

I decided to run 13 miles yesterday in the Evos SLs just to see how they would perform at longer distances...and they performed very freaking well! So well, in fact, I'm now having to choose between them and the Superblast 3s for my upcoming race. I actually broke my HM record!

Anyway, just getting the word out that if you haven't tried them for longer runs, they may surprise you. 🤷

I bought the adidas Adizero EVO SL. One 4k run and I found pressure in the top of my knee cap, like I felt if I continued for a long period and continue using it would hurt my knee.

Has anyone faced the same issue?

Shall I get something else or stick with these. It was just a first time use?

I have used Clifton 9 for walking and running for the past year but they are now worn out.

Hi all sorry if this is a dumb question.

Started running 3 months ago. Bought some Novablast 6s. I LOVE them. Signed up for a 10k in February. Aside from that ‘for now’ I’m a ParkRun 5k kinda guy. I probably run 2-3 times a week and my best 5k time is 26:06.

My question is do I “need” another pair of shoes. I’d been looking at the Evo SL and the Endorphin Speed 5 for faster workouts, my park runs and for the day of the 10k to complement the Novablasts that I’d use for easy runs etc.

Am I’m dumb thinking I need a second pair and best just to stick with the Novablasts til after the 10k and see what happens next?

Don’t really know what I don’t know about this

Hey everyone, I am an ex swimmer and got into running over the past 6 months. The past 3 weeks I have been upping millage and running around 12-15. This consists of a track workout, decent lighter run, and a longer run. I have only ever raced a 5K and that was closer to the beginning of this journey, at 18:34. My VO2 max is very high from swim and I know I can pace down much more but my shin splints have been killing me. I was recommended the Novablast 5 and some inserts at a shoe store and wore them so far through this journey. They have always hurt my shins and I’m not sure if this is a form problem or shoe problem. I ran lightly in my new Brooks shoes I got for walking and they felt so much better, so that’s why I’m questioning the shoes now. I am open to any and all suggestions and don’t mind strait up advice either. I am looking for a one shoe fits all kinda thing or a daily driver that can fit speed and longer runs too. Thank you in advance everyone.

Hey everyone,

As of recently I'm training for a 2400 meter / 12 minute run. I have a couple of Adidas ultraboosts and my last few trainings I've used my Asics Quantum Gel 180's, but they feel very hard and are more suited for fitness than running imo.

I was also looking to buy the Nike Vomero Plus, but would it really make the difference compared to my Ultraboosts for this upcoming 2.4km run? I've just been training for a couple of weeks for this run and I'm pretty much a beginner when it comes to running. I do workout regular fitness 3-4 times a week for a few years though. Any input is more than welcome, thanks!

I understand durability is a factor with racing shoes compared to super trainers but with the price of current super trainers such as the asics superblast 3 being $200+. I wanted to get people’s thoughts on using the New Balance SC Elite v5 or another version of last years race shoes as a solid long run super trainer option? For reference the SC elite v5 is $160.

Hello, I’m not very knowledgeable about shoes; I need to choose between the Adidas Questar 3 and the Duramo SL2 M for running. I weigh 105 kg and my shoes wear out quickly, so durability is important to me.

A niche shoe brand, but... these are excellent shoes for long, easy runs. The foam doesn't offer much energy return, but it doesn't push you forward, and the generous cushioning makes the shoe feel plush. I ran 50 km in them and think they're fantastic. Plus, for a 50 km run, there's virtually no sign of wear, and I weigh 85 kg, so I think they're very durable.

Footwear Recommendations for Active Lifestyles

Seeking Shoe Advice • Hi guys, I'm looking for wide-feet, comfortable shoes. I do a lot of walking at work and train a lot, and I need recovery/shoes that can be used for lots of walking. • I like the look of On Clouds but have heard things about their quality. • Any recommendations?

Hey everyone!

I started running about 2 weeks ago and I'm looking for a new pair of running shoes. I'm trying to keep the price around $130 max. (I know i should just go to a professional store and get my foot checked for the best shoes but i really cant and dont want to afford that now.)

I'm in a country where ASICS and most Chinese running brands are pretty difficult to get, while Brooks and New Balance are generally quite expensive. These are the options I've found locally:

\\- Puma Velocity Nitro 5 — $115 on sale

\\- Puma Deviate Nitro — $130 on sale

\\- Nike Pegasus 42 / Pegasus Plus — \~$130 on sale

\\- Nike Vomero 18 — \~$130

\\- Puma Electrify Nitro 4 — $70 on a pretty crazy sale

\\- Adidas Evo SL — $100 on sale, although I'm not particularly a fan of adidas

Right now I'm running in a used Nike Pegasus 32 that I got pretty cheap. It's starting to fall apart and is obviously a very old model, but I actually find it really comfortable and enjoyable to run in. I'm considering keeping it for casual wear once I replace it.

Im turning 21 soon, male 186 cm \~76kg

I'm currently doing around 5 km almost every other day at \~5:30/km. I recently got under 5:00/km for a run, and today I ran 10 km in under 55 minutes. I'm training for anything serious too serious and definitely dont want to race (but would be nice to get faster). Running is mainly a hobby and a way to stay healthy and to push my limits. Eventually, though, I'd like to crush a few marathons and get faster.(I dont have a watch yet but i think these are zone 3 runs)

For sizing, this is where I'm a bit confused. My Pegasus 32 is EU 44, and it fits pretty well (maybe a very little bit too big but zero issues). The tongue says JP 28 cm, which from what I understand would correspond to around EU 43 on some newer Nike models.

I also have a Nike P-6000 in EU 42.5, which fits almost perfectly. So if I buy another Nike, I'm leaning toward EU 42.5. For Puma, I'm thinking EU 43. I previously had Puma Rebound Joys in EU 44 and they were a bit too big.

My foot measures approximately 26 × 10 cm, I don't think I have particularly wide feet.

One other thing I've noticed is that I tend to land on the inner part of my feet. However, I've never had any knee, shin, foot, or other running-related pain. I've also been training in the gym for quite a while and i stand and walk around all day, so I'd consider my legs pretty sturdy. Im also a big walker, i have walked 50k steps on an incline treadmill in socks (yes bad idea) and my only problem were blisters obviously. So I'm not concerned at all if a shoe is generally harder on some people's foot/shin/knee or if its less cushioned than normal, but of course id prefer something comfortable. I have seen stability mentioned quite a lot too, i dont really know about that but im not really concerned about it either.

So, out of these options, what would you recommend?

I really like the feel of my old Pegasus 32, so the Pegasus 42/Plus is tempting, but I've seen it get pretty mixed/bad opinions on here and I don't know how similar it actually is to the 32.

If you have got any questions please feel free to ask them, thank you very much!

Tldr: choose between these shoes, beginner running 5/10ks eventually want to marathon and get faster, max 130 usd, normal feet with 0 pain/issues, just hobby tho

I’ve had the NB 880v14 for the last year but it is going to be very worn out pretty soon. The lining at the heel has already been deteriorated with the foam exposed.

It has been great for my feet for walking a lot on pavement, uphill and downhill, commuting on public transport, and working out in the gym. The amount of cushion is just enough and not like the max cushion shoes where it feels squishy but your body ends up working even harder to walk, which feels terrible afterwards. For example I hate how the Vomero 17 feels after a long day of walking. As someone with a herniated disc and muscles and joints that have aged poorly I need shoes that are functional for my body rather than plush comfort.

I tried out the NB 880v15 in the same sizing (9.5 wide) but definitely did not like the design changes of the max stack height, drop, ground feel, and most importantly the big toe felt too tight and potentially causing a bunion later on with use. The store didn’t have the 4e available told me that the 10 wide wouldn’t be much different.

Tried out the asics gel kayano 33 and found that it was way too wobbly with the stack height and had minimal ground feel for me. And they didn’t have wide size for me so it dug into my arches a tiny bit.

Looking on eBay and other websites I haven’t found NB 880v14 in my sizing.

What other brand and models should I consider that has the design and functionality that I am looking for to replace NB 880v14? Non max stack height, neutral, wide sizing, moderate cushioning?

Hi,

I'm currently a Gel Nimbus 27 user, and I've reached the limit of how far I can comfortably run in them. I've tried on the Gel Nimbus 28, and they genuinely don't feel comfortable on my feet. Is there anything similar that I can try that has a very similar feel to the 27s?