Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2 Track Spike Review: Built to Fly from 1500m to 10K

Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2: Best Track Spike for 1500m, 5K, and 10K?

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If you live for PRs on the track—from 1500m all the way up to the 10K—the Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2 is exactly the kind of spike you’re probably hearing about from college teams, pros, and serious high school athletes.

It takes everything that made the original Dragonfly such a weapon and adds more cushioning, a touch more stability, and a refined fit, without losing the light, fast feel that distance runners love.

At Confluence Running, we carry the Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2 in standout race colorways, including:

• White / Obsidian / Hyper Turq / Fire Pink

• Citron Pulse / Indigo Burst / Vivid Purple

Here’s a full, runner-focused breakdown to help you decide if this is the right spike for your next season.

What’s New in the Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2?

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Nike didn’t overhaul the Dragonfly—it sharpened it.

Key updates compared to the original:

• Maxed-out cushioning for long events

  • Heel stack right at the ~20 mm World Athletics limit

  • Forefoot stack also near 20 mm, adding more underfoot protection than the first version

• Full-length Pebax plate (stiffer than v1)

  • Runs from heel to toe for a snappy, efficient toe-off

  • Feels propulsive without the super-rigid feel of a pure sprint spike

• New 4-pin outsole design

  • Slimmed down from the original 6-pin layout

  • Still delivers tons of grip on modern rubber tracks, but with less bulk under the forefoot

• Subtle stability boost

  • Slightly wider base through the midsole to help keep you centered, especially late in the race

• Still crazy light

  • Around 5.1 oz (145 g), which is lighter than many track spikes and only a hair heavier than the original Dragonfly

In simple terms: the Dragonfly 2 is smoother, more cushioned, and more stable—but still feels like the same fast Dragonfly that athletes already trust.

ZoomX Foam & Plate: How It Feels Underfoot

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The Dragonfly 2 is built around ZoomX foam, Nike’s lightest and most responsive midsole compound. It’s the same family of foam used in their big road marathon racers, just in a thinner, track-legal package.

What that feels like on the track:

• Bouncy and responsive

  • Each stride feels like it gives something back, especially when you’re on pace or kicking hard.

• Calf- and quad-friendly for longer races

  • The extra foam under both heel and forefoot takes some sting out of 5K and 10K efforts.

  • Great if you’re doubling in events across a meet or racing on tired legs.

• Near-zero drop

  • With the heel and forefoot both built up close to 20 mm, the effective drop is almost flat.

  • This keeps you over your midfoot and maximizes usable cushioning across the entire shoe.

The overall effect: explosive when you need it, protective when the laps start adding up.

Upper, Fit, and Comfort: Shockingly Comfortable (for a Spike)

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Most track spikes are narrow, stiff, and unforgiving. The Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2 is intentionally more accommodating, especially for distance athletes.

Fit and feel notes:

• True to size for most runners

• Roomier forefoot than typical spikes

  • Allows natural toe splay without feeling sloppy

  • Especially nice over 12.5 or 25 laps

• Light, single-layer mesh upper

  • Huge ventilation zones across the forefoot and midfoot

  • Ideal for hot meets and sockless racing in 5K/10K

• Minimal padding where it counts

  • Thin tongue to save weight

  • A few strategic foam pads around the ankle and heel for lockdown and comfort

It still feels like a performance spike, but it won’t crush your toes like some narrow mid-distance models.

Distance Sweet Spot: 1500m to 10K (and Some 800s)

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The Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2 is built primarily for long-distance track events, but it’s versatile enough to reach down into some mid-distance racing too.

Best uses:

• 1500m / mile

• 3000m / steeplechase

• 5000m

• 10,000m

• Threshold, tempo, and race-pace track workouts

Can you wear it for 800m?
Yes—especially if you’re more of a strength-based middle-distance runner who prefers some extra cushioning, or if you’re coming back from a niggle and want something a bit more forgiving than a pure sprint spike. Pure power sprinters and 400/800 specialists may prefer a more aggressive, stiffer spike.

Pros and Cons of the Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2

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Pros

• Elite-level spike for 1500m to 10K

• ZoomX foam + full-length Pebax plate for a powerful, propulsive ride

• Maxed-out cushioning within World Athletics rules to help keep legs fresher

• New 4-pin layout with removable spikes for easy customization

• Surprisingly roomy forefoot for a long-distance spike

• Ultra-breathable upper that works great in hot conditions and sockless setups

• Still very lightweight, even with added cushioning

Cons

• Upper durability is limited

  • The super-thin, airy mesh is built for race performance, not daily abuse

  • Best to reserve for key workouts and competition

• Premium price point

  • This is a top-tier super spike, not an entry-level option

• Not ideal for short sprints

  • Sprinters and very powerful 800m runners may prefer a stiffer, more aggressive spike designed for explosive events

How It Compares to Other Nike Track Spikes

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Here’s where the Dragonfly 2 sits in Nike’s lineup:

• Versus mid-distance spikes (like typical 800–1500 spikes)

  • Dragonfly 2 is more cushioned, more forgiving, and better suited to 1500–10K.

  • Mid-distance models are usually stiffer and more aggressive but less comfortable over long distances.

• Versus sprint-focused “super spikes”

  • The Dragonfly 2 is smoother and more versatile across a wider range of distances.

  • Sprint super spikes are fantastic for max power over shorter races, but can feel harsh if you stretch them up to 5K/10K.

• Versus entry-level distance spikes

  • The Dragonfly 2 offers a big upgrade in foam quality, plate design, and overall feel.

  • Budget spikes are fine for newer runners, but serious athletes aiming for championships and PRs will absolutely notice the difference in the Dragonfly 2.

If you want one spike that can cover nearly all of your distance events, this is the smart, high-performance choice.

Colorways Available at Confluence Running

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We currently carry the Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2 in two striking unisex color options:

• White / Obsidian / Hyper Turq / Fire Pink – clean and sharp with bright hits that stand out on the track.

• Citron Pulse / Indigo Burst / Vivid Purple – bold, high-visibility colors that look every bit as fast as they feel.

Both are built on the same ZoomX platform and performance geometry, so you can choose the look that matches your personality, your team kit, or your race-day vibe.

Who the Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2 Is Best For

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This spike is a great fit if:

• You race 1500m–10K and want a single, high-level spike for your marquee events.

• You’ve found other spikes too narrow or too harsh, and want more comfort without sacrificing speed.

• You’re already training hard and want gear that actually matches your goals.

• You care about feeling strong in the last kilometer, not just the first.

You may want a different spike if:

• You mainly race 100–400m or 400/800m and want an ultra-aggressive, stiff platform.

• You’re on a tighter budget and just starting out with your first pair of spikes.

• You want something extremely durable for constant practice use; the Dragonfly 2 is built as a race weapon first.

Final Take: A Go-To Long-Distance Super Spike

The Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2 Track Spike is a logical evolution of one of the most trusted distance spikes on the planet. With more cushioning, a refined plate, a stable-yet-fast platform, and a more forgiving fit than many competitors, it’s a serious tool for serious track athletes.

If you’re gearing up for a championship season, chasing state qualifiers, or eyeing a big PR from 1500m to 10K, the Dragonfly 2 absolutely deserves a spot on your short list—and quite possibly on your feet on race day.

Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2 FAQ

Q: Is the Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2 good for 1500m and the mile?
A: Yes. The Dragonfly 2 is an excellent choice for 1500m and the mile. The combination of ZoomX foam and a full-length Pebax plate gives you a fast, responsive ride with enough cushioning to handle multiple rounds or a long season.

Q: Can I use the Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2 for both 5K and 10K on the track?
A: Absolutely. The Dragonfly 2 is designed with long-distance racing in mind. The maxed-out cushioning and lightweight build help protect your legs over 5K and 10K while still feeling light and fast when you kick.

Q: How does the fit of the Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2 compare to other spikes?
A: The Dragonfly 2 runs true to size for most runners and offers a slightly roomier forefoot than many traditional spikes. It still provides a performance fit but gives your toes a bit more space, which is especially helpful in longer races.

Q: Is the Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2 durable enough for everyday workouts?
A: The upper is very lightweight and breathable, which is great for racing but not ideal for heavy daily use. For most athletes, the best approach is to save the Dragonfly 2 for key workouts and races and use a more durable trainer or lower-priced spike for routine sessions.

Q: Who is the Nike ZoomX Dragonfly 2 best suited for?
A: The Dragonfly 2 is best suited for serious middle- and long-distance athletes who race from 1500m to 10K and want a high-performance spike with modern super-shoe foam and a plate.