Why you can trust us
We don't accept free products or compensation in exchange for our reviews. We may earn an affiliate commissions when you buy through us. Learn more about how we evaluate products.
Best Nike Running Shoes 2024
Did you know Nike was founded as a running shoe company by a track athlete and his coach ? Phil Knight was the business student and Bill Bowerman the legendary coach.Nike is famous for innovation, and that means constant change. They introduced the first modern carbon-plated running shoe back in 2017 (the Vaporfly) while trying to break the 2 hour marathon barrier.
This also means that it's not always easy for runners to pick up the best Nike running shoe for them. Here is Nike's lineup, with our selection of the best shoes for different runners and usage.
Table of content
Best Nike Running Shoes
Keep scrolling or click on a shoe to find out why we chose it and what other shoes you should consider.
Best Nike for Daily Training
Best Nike Max Cushioned Shoes
Best Nike for Trail Running
Best Nike Shoes for Racing
Best Low Priced Nike Shoes
An overview of Nike technologies.
While looking into Nike running shoes, you’ll bump into a series of materials and technologies with bold but unclear sounding names. Here are the most important ones for you to know.
Nike Air
Nike Air in a nutshell is pressurised air contained in a durable and flexible membrane to provide shock absorption during running.
Nike Air is not used in Nike performance running shoes anymore, but you can find its evolution: Nike Zoom Air.
Nike Zoom Air
Zoom Air is an evolution of Nike Air. These new “air pods” have a lower height and more responsiveness. It is used in many of Nike’s running shoes, including their top-of-the-range Alphafly line.
Nike React
Nike React is a foam material used to make the sole units of Nike running shoes. Nike states that React is 11% softer and offers 13% more energy return than their previous softest and bounciest cushioning.
Nike ReactX
Nike ReactX foam is a brand new midsole material developed by Nike after 5 years of test and research – with the aim to find a balance between performance and sustainability.
According to Nike, ReactX reduces carbon footprint by 43% thanks to reduced energy usage in the manufacturing process and increases energy return by 13%.
Nike Flyknit
Nike Flyknit is an upper technology that allows shoe uppers to be woven. The result is a sock-like feeling for a shoe that comforms to the foot of the wearer.
Best Nike for Daily Training
In this section you'll find the Nike running shoes we recommend for most of your mileage. Tried and tested, these shoes have enough versatility to change up your pace, great durability and the ability to fit almost any foot shape.
The winner
In short
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 40 is a daily trainer with a stable ride and durable build. It doesn't have a particularly fun or lively ride but it has a comfortable fit with no major weaknesses. It's best suited to short or middle-distance easy runs. Version 40 is only an upper update which makes the shoe more comfortable but heavier. It isn't a substantial update so it's not a major improvement over the Pegasus 39.Pros
- Improved upper comfort
- Highly durable outsole
- No price increase
- Good lockdown
- Stable ride
Cons
- No energy return
- Weight increase
- Slappy outsole
Who should buy it
If you’re looking for a decently priced trainer that will last a long time, the Pegasus 40 is a good choice. It has a very comfortable upper and has a stable ride. It’s also suitable for gym and casual wear.
Who should not buy it
If you want an exciting daily trainer with a bouncy ride, the Pegasus 40 is not the shoe for you. It has a very predictable, traditional daily trainer ride.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
9.4 oz
Heel
33 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
23 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
6.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
The Pegasus is a shoe that doesn't innovate much year over year, but it's reliable and comfortable and that's what pushes millions of runners each year to buy Nike's most popular running shoe. Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The Nike Winflo 10 is a neutral daily trainer that allows you to use them for an array of activities. They are incredibly comfortable and work great for runners who are new to the sport, runners who are veterans, and individuals who just want a good-looking practical shoe.Pros
- Versatile
- Budget-friendly
- Comfortable enough for all day wear
Cons
- Not the most responsive on longer runs
- Laces could use an upgrade
Who should buy it
This shoe is for the individual who is looking for a versatile shoe that can accomplish different goals. They are great for short runs to logging mid-range distances.
Who should not buy it
They are not for the runner who is looking for a shoe that will help them during those grueling long runs. They work well for runs under 10 miles. I also wouldn’t suggest them for a racing shoe.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
9.9 oz
Heel
33 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
23 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
10
Team review
The Winflo is a step down from the Pegasus, but it doesn't really feel like a cheap shoe - at all. We like how light and bouncy the Winflo is and we believe it's a perfect fit for most runners, especially beginners. Read full reviewAlso consider
In short
The Nike Air Zoom Structure 25 is a supportive daily trainer best suited to easy runs. It has a new Cushlon 3.0 midsole and a forefoot airbag but it doesn’t have very good energy return. Compared to the Structure 24, it feels more like a traditional stability trainer because of its prominent arch. Although it has a bland ride, it’s a stable, durable workhorse, making it excellent value for its $120 price tag.Pros
- More supportive than previous versions
- Upper feels warm
- Tough outsole
- Great traction
Cons
- Poking arch sensation if you have flat feet
- Lumpy forefoot from the airbag
- Firmer ride
Who should buy it
If the Pegasus 40 is too unstable for you or the Infinity RN4 is too expensive, the Structure 25 is a good option.
Who should not buy it
If you want a supportive, neutral trainer that doesn’t feel like a stability shoe, do not get the Structure 25.
Main Specs
Type
Stability
Weight
11.4 oz
Heel
37 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
27 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
6.0
Build quality
7.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
You can consider the Structure the stability version of the Pegasus. If your ankles need some support, pick the Structure as your daily trainer! Read full reviewBest Nike Max Cushioned Shoes
If you are a heavier runner, or if you enjoy the feeling of running on a soft surface - or you are looking for a shoe that can take you through your longest runs - this is the category you are looking for.
The winner
In short
The Nike Vomero 17 is a good, premium trainer that delivers a cushioned, stable ride. It has a balanced ride suitable for most types of runs. While it isn't as exciting as some of the other premium trainers, it excels in outsole durability. Version 17 is an improvement over version 16. It has a plusher, more energetic ride with smoother transitions due to the removal of the outdated Zoom airbag.Pros
- Smoother ride due to the removal of the airbag
- Lighter than previous version
- Extremely durable outsole
- Softer ride
Cons
- Warm upper due to the inner sleeve
- Price has increased
Who should buy it
If you’re a runner looking for a more modern, more engaging Pegasus, the Vomero 17 is the shoe for you. The ZoomX in its midsole gives it a much more exciting ride than the boring Pegasus ride.
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a similar ride to the Pegasus Turbo 2, you should skip the Vomero 17 because it’s much heavier and not as fast. The Vomero 17 is more of a daily trainer than a shoe you can use for speedwork.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10.6 oz
Heel
39 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
29 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
6.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
10
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
After years of neglect, Nike comes out with the best Vomero in ages. The New Vomero 17 has great soft cushioning, but is also able to pick up the pace for faster efforts. Seriously versatile, highly recommended! Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The Nike ReactX InfinityRN 4 is a trainer which is well-cushioned and stable but lacks the fun factor. Its brand new ReactX midsole doesn’t deliver much energy return and it’s only suited to easy/recovery runs. This 4th version has been completely revamped: it’s slightly softer, more comfortable, and more durable but it picks up an ounce of weight.Pros
- Less Intrusive arch
- Good lockdown
- More durable
- Softer ride
- Stable
Cons
- ReactX lacks energy return
- Warm upper
- Bland ride
Who should buy it
If you enjoy the Infinity Run series, you’ll be happy with this new version because it no longer has a heel clip so there’s no more prominent arch. If you’re looking for an alternative to the Pegasus and Structure series in the Nike lineup, the InfinityRN 4 is an option.
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a modern max-cushioned trainer with an exciting, bouncy ride, the InifnityRN 4 is not for you.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
11.2 oz
Heel
mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
mm
Toe
mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
5.0
Team review
The Nike Infinity RN4 doesn't shine for responsiveness - but it works wonders for longer runs. Read full reviewAlso consider
In short
The Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 3 is a super soft, max-cushioned trainer with more bounce and energy return than any other max-cushioned trainer on the market. Version 3 has a new strobel lining underneath its insole which gives it a firmer, more stable ride with less energy return. It also has a longer heel clip to improve stability but it may cause issues for runners with wide or flat feet. It’s also much heavier than previous versions.Pros
- More attractive design
- New heel pull tab
- Better stability
Cons
- Intrusive heel clip
- Less bounce
- Firmer ride
Who should buy it
If you enjoyed the ride of the first 2 versions of the Invincible Run but you found them too soft/unstable, you should get this new version. It has a more controlled, firmer ride with increased stability.
Who should not buy it
If you have wide or flat feet, the Invincible Run 3 is not the shoe for you because it has a narrow midfoot where the heel clip pokes into the sides of your feet. It’s also not a shoe for runners who prefer a minimal, firm ride with plenty of ground feel.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
11.2 oz
Heel
mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
9 mm
Toe
mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
6.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
5.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
This is Nike's softest shoe. Its fit does not accommodate everyone, but plenty of runners swear by its comfort. Read full reviewBest Nike for Trail Running
Trail running has exploded, have you noticed?
Nike has been quietly putting out more and more trail shoes each year - from the entry level Juniper, to the carbon-plated Ultrafly Trail.
The winner
In short
The Nike Terra Kiger 9 received a complete makeover from versions 7 and 8. But while looks may be different; function and purpose remain the same. Nike continues to design and promote the Terra Kiger for speedy runs and a nimble feel.Pros
- Better traction than previous model
- Responsive ride
- Great option for shorter trail races or speed training
Cons
- Forefoot rockplate lacks protection
- Thin mesh upper may not hold up on trails
Who should buy it
This shoe is designed for trail runners that plan on going fast for shorter distances on easy to moderate terrain. In addition, casual trail runners that want a stylish shoe to take in the woods on occasion.
Who should not buy it
This shoe is not built for highly technical terrain or runners that plan on logging higher distances. They may also lack the plush cushioning that some runners are looking for.
Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
9.8 oz
Heel
31 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
3 mm
Toe
28 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
6.0
Build quality
7.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
6.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
7.0
Durability
6.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
Possibly the most versatile of Nike's trail shoes - it is fast and nimble while still offering very decent protection. Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The UltraFly trail is certainly one of the fastest on the market but it’s limited use, focus, and high price tag will make it a hard sell for most runners.Pros
- No plate harshness
- Vibram outsole
- Fast door to trail, gravel roads, and smooth trail.
Cons
- Lack of flexibility
- High price tag
- Softness impacts stability.
Who should buy it
Runners that have the funds and are seeking a race day shoe for buffed trails and forest roads without sacrificing comfort.
Who should not buy it
Runners seeking a versatile race day shoe capable of rugged mileage.
Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
10.1 oz
Heel
38 mm
Carbon plate
Full length carbon plate
Heel drop
8.5 mm
Toe
29.5 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
7.0
Build quality
10
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
10
Transition
10
Toe-off
10
Traction
10
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
5.0
Team review
Carbon fiber has landed on trails! The Ultrafly is impressive for being its first version. Made to go fast. Read full reviewAlso consider
In short
The Nike React Pegasus Trail 4 is a versatile trail shoe that excels on a variety of running surfaces - from the road to most trail terrain (so long as it’s not too technical).Pros
- Highly durable
- Stylish design
- Versatile on a variety of trail terrain types
- Secure fit
Cons
- Limited traction on slippery or rocky terrain
- Narrow toe box
Who should buy it
For runners looking for a do-it-all road to trail shoe that looks good, fits well, and is durable enough to handle high mileage.
Who should not buy it
Long distance runners who need a more spacious toe box. Trail runners looking for a shoe with more protection on technical terrain.
Main Specs
Type
Trail
Weight
10.4 oz
Heel
mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
10
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
8.0
Traction
5.0
Durability
10
Value / Price
8.0
Team review
Perfect road-to-trail shoe that will be a natural first step on the trails for somebody used to Nike's Pegasus on the road. Read full reviewBest Nike Shoes for Racing
Nike has been dominating marathon podiums worldwide (and world records) for the past 5 years or so. Here are some of the shoes Nike athlete's use to do that.
The winner
In short
The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly 3 is a soft, bouncy super shoe best suited to marathons. It doesn't offer as much speed assistance as other top tier carbon racers because of its gentle forefoot rocker but it's incredibly lightweight and extremely comfortable. Version 3 has been improved in a number of areas including stability, cushioning and weight. The forefoot is softer so it doesn't feel as fast as the Vaporfly 2 but its ride is plusher and it has more long-distance comfort.Pros
- Increase in cushioning
- Stability improvement
- More comfortable fit
- Better breathability
- Lighter weight
Cons
- Less aggressive toe spring than competitors
- Low durability
Who should buy it
If you’re looking for a super shoe with an accommodating fit and a super lightweight build, the Vaporfly 3 is an excellent choice. It has good stability and a soft, propulsive ride.
Who should not buy it
If you want a really durable super shoe that you can use for training as well as racing, the Vaporfly 3 is not for you- its ZoomX foam is extremely soft and delicate.
Main Specs
Type
Racing
Weight
6.5 oz
Heel
40 mm
Carbon plate
Full length carbon plate
Heel drop
8 mm
Toe
32 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
8.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
5.0
Value / Price
7.0
Team review
Third edition of Nike's original super-shoe, the Vaporfly is a soft and comfortable racing shoe that has been tried and tested on the world stage. Read full reviewBest Low Priced Nike Shoes
The advantage of being as big as Nike is that you can afford to use advanced technologies at price points that usually don't see much love.
The winner
In short
The Nike Winflo 10 is a neutral daily trainer that allows you to use them for an array of activities. They are incredibly comfortable and work great for runners who are new to the sport, runners who are veterans, and individuals who just want a good-looking practical shoe.Pros
- Versatile
- Budget-friendly
- Comfortable enough for all day wear
Cons
- Not the most responsive on longer runs
- Laces could use an upgrade
Who should buy it
This shoe is for the individual who is looking for a versatile shoe that can accomplish different goals. They are great for short runs to logging mid-range distances.
Who should not buy it
They are not for the runner who is looking for a shoe that will help them during those grueling long runs. They work well for runs under 10 miles. I also wouldn’t suggest them for a racing shoe.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
9.9 oz
Heel
33 mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
23 mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
9.0
Build quality
8.0
Upper
8.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
10
Team review
One of the shoes we recommended the most in the past 12 months. The Winflo started as a cheaper version of the Pegasus, but it's now a franchise in its own accord. Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The Nike Revolution 7 is a budget friendly shoe with a comfortable fit and sleek design. It is ideal for those new to running, looking for a pair of gym shoes, or even something to wear casual.Pros
- affordable trainer.
- Comfortable fit.
- Sleek and stylish design.
Cons
- Lacing not evenly fit and does not provide great ankle support.
- Ride too firm. Hard to go longer than an hour.
Who should buy it
If you are new to running and want something with a low entry point price wise then this is for you. Great for running 10K or below.
Who should not buy it
Not recommended for experienced runners or anyone looking to train for distances beyond a 10K.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10 oz
Heel
mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
6.0
Upper
6.0
Sole unit
8.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
7.0
Traction
9.0
Durability
8.0
Value / Price
10
Team review
Read full reviewAlso consider
In short
The Nike Downshifter 12 is a supportive, stable-feeling running shoe that is an excellent buy for the price. Comfortable for walking and general wear, the ride can feel blocky when picking up the pace, yet the full-coverage outsole provides grip and durability long term.Pros
- Stable ride
- Durable build quality
- Full coverage, protective, grippy outsole
- Available in wide fit
- Affordable price
Cons
- Small toe box
- Blocky ride
- Discouraging toe-off
Who should buy it
Downshifter is best suited for walkers who want to mix in some running; wide and extra-wide versions makes this med-narrow shoe an option for most walkers and beginning runners. The durable sole unit with ribbed heel coverage curling up the back resists wear for heel strikers and those with uneven gait patterns.
Who should not buy it
This is not the shoe for runners regularly going over four miles or speed-focused runs.
Main Specs
Type
Cushioning
Weight
10 oz
Heel
mm
Carbon plate
No plate
Heel drop
10 mm
Toe
mm
Rating breakdown
Comfort
8.0
Build quality
9.0
Upper
6.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
8.0
Transition
7.0
Toe-off
5.0
Traction
10
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
10
Team review
Read full reviewQuick Questions you might have
Are Air Max good for running?
Shoes with Air Max are soft and bouncy, but also heavy and unstable. That's why Nike doesn't use this technology in their running shoes.
Are Nike shoes good for running?
Although some people dismiss Nike as a marketing brand, the company was founded by a runner for runners and still today produces some of the best running shoes in the market.
