Nike Ultrafly.
ZoomX foam and Vibram Megagrip — the road-racer propulsion of the Vaporfly, translated to trail.
The Verdict.
Gavler Meta-Score
“The Ultrafly is a propulsion specialist — genuinely exciting on fire roads and rolling terrain, overbuilt for technical mountain runs. If you race 50Ks on smooth trail and want road-racer energy return, it delivers. If your trails are rocky, rooted, or loose, buy a Speedgoat 7 or Bushido III instead.”
The Gavler Verdict
Precision Engineering
Full-Length ZoomX Midsole
The same supercritical foam used in the Vaporfly and Alphafly road racers — highest energy return of any mainstream trail midsole in 2026.
Vibram Megagrip Outsole, 3.5mm Lugs
Premium rubber compound optimized for wet rock and hardpack. Shallower lugs than dedicated mountain shoes — trades loose-dirt bite for smoother transitions.
Carbon-Composite Flyplate
Full-length plate stabilizes the tall ZoomX stack and propels you through toe-off, similar to the Vaporfly plate tuned for trail.
Technical Specifications
The Scoreboard
Expert scores reward the propulsion and energy return on smooth terrain. Community scores are a step lower, reflecting durability concerns on ZoomX foam and the tippy feel on technical sections.
Cast Your Vote
Do you think Nike Ultrafly deserves the #3 spot in Best Trail Running Shoes?
Best Price Availability.
Prices checked April 2026
Global Critique
“The Ultrafly delivers the most propulsive ride of any trail shoe I've tested — ZoomX foam genuinely shines on smooth, rolling terrain.”
“Nike's first dedicated trail shoe feels like a road racer with just enough trail credibility. Fire-road specialists will love it.”
“The Flyplate and ZoomX combination is real — but on technical terrain, the tippy feel and shallow lugs limit confidence.”
“Energy return is noticeable from the first mile, though ZoomX compresses faster than traditional EVA midsoles on trail.”
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