Nike is among the most innovative running shoe brands currently in the market. while they do stick to a few famous models for years, that is, the more than 30 years history of the Nike Pegasus, they regularly bring new technologies and with them, new names and classification.
In this article, you will get to see a lot of sense of all these model names, technical jargon and last of all comprehend which of Nike’s running shoes is meant for the type of runner you are.
Best Nike Running Shoes 2023
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Nike Zoom Pegasus 36
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 is one tested and proven shoe from Nike that provide a reliable, durable, and well-tested set of features. With an affordable price and smart appearance, you are sure to have a good run ahead supposing that you grab a pair.
PROS
- Simple upper-lower chances of chafing
- Great rubber coverage on outsole and
- Snug and modern fitting upper
CONS
- The fabric folds around the heel in an odd way and
- Familiar design and cost to the former model.
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Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo 2
This model is a lighter-weight version of the ordinary Pegasus that is meant for faster training and track workouts. The midsole in this model is made of ZoomX, the exact foam used in the Vaporfly Elite and Varporfly 4 percent running shoes.
PROS
- Highly breathable upper
- Redesigned thin and light upper and
- Efficient ZoomX foam
CONS
- 50 percent more expensive than the regular Pegasus model and
- Limited upper durability
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Nike Odyssey React 2 Flyknit
This model is a mouthful to say and is equally assembled with potential, providing light stability by way of a med-high arch and med-supportive upper, with a touch of flexibility (non-rigid) in the forefoot and a snug, low volume fit.
When tied with heel-lock lacing, this model holds the foot secure with excess movement from the flexibility-soft fit, that is, react midsole material does the rest to provide a soft still light and springy ride.
PROS
- Soft and responsive cushion
- Supportive ride in a med-high arch shoe
- Lightweight and
- Flyknit upper is flexible
CONS
- Laces can dig through thin tongue and
- The midsole is a bit squishy for fast efforts, particularly in the heel.
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Nike Free RN
This model is a lightweight minimalist shoe that works extremely well on runs of short distances. The show wrap lets the shoe to create a feeling of sereneness around the foot which at the same time creates a great fit which leads to a comfortable run.
PROS
- The shoe keeps the foot locked in place and secure the heel
- The shoe is lightweight and also flexible
- The upper material is light and it breathes extremely well
CONS
- Lack of traction in slick conditions.
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Nike Zoom Vaporfly 4 percent
Simply put, Nike has created the greatest marathon racing shoe in history. The Vaporfly 4 percent is the culmination of a good deal of design research by Nike for the Breaking2 project. Supposing that you are willing to pay the amount (300 dollars) to get into a major marathon, as well as travel expenses, having the absolute perfect shoe on your foot for a distance should not be an afterthought.
PROS
- This is the best racing flat ever created
- High stack height never felt slow or unstable
- Incredible cushioning to weight ratio with new ZoomX foam.
CONS
- The price is quite high
6. Nike Zoom Fly 3
This model is the affordable version of the Nike premium distance racing shoes. While this is the tier below the Vaporfly 4 percent and Next percent shoes, the Zoom Fly 3 comes with premium Nike running shoe features in a more accessible format.
PROS
- Enhanced outsole durability and traction from Zoom Fly Flyknit
- Cheaper and more durable than higher-end selections and
- VaporWeave upper material
CONS
- Expensive for an affordable selection and
- Internal bootie on upper seems unnecessary
7. Nike Zoom Streak 7
This model is a minor update to the former version of the famous racing shoe. The updates are so minor that the 7th iteration of the Streak still offers a great responsive feeling with familiar upper problems to former versions.
PROS
- Snappy responsive feeling
- Lightweight
- Just enough cushioning for a racing shoe
CONS
- Upper updates still far short
8. Nike Speed Rival 6
This model is a well-cushioned and durable racing flat with an entry-level price, but not entry-level features. This is a good flat for runners wanting a little more space in their racing shoes throughout the midfoot and toe box.
PROS
- A wider fit which will accommodate runners that probably normally have difficulty fitting into a racing flat.
- Enough responsive cushioning to take on any road distance up to a marathon.
- The hexagonal shank in the midsole does seem to help with faster paced running.
CONS
- Runners with narrow feet will not like the fit and
- Initially, the fit feels sloppy through the midfoot, but this does not affect faster paced running.
9. Nike Zoom Terra Kiger 5
This model was designed with speed on the trails in mind. From toe to heel, the shoes are created to allow the runner to blaze down dirt trails, paved trails, and roads. The more technical the terrain, the less effective the Kigers can be.
PROS
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Fast and quick
- More responsive than previous models
CONS
- Does not handle mud well
10. Nike Zoom Wildhorse 5
This model is a decent trail shoe that is either fast or durable. It is pretty much middle of the road, which is a good thing. It is a good shoe for midweek training runs on the trails, offered the trails is moderate and not overly muddy or technical.
PROS
- The added toe bumper is an improvement over former editions
- Solid price point 110 dollars
- Durable
CONS
- Struggles with damp, muddy or wet conditions.