No matter the terrain or how quickly you want to cover it, Nike likely has a running shoe to fit your needs.
Nike is constantly coming up with the latest technology for speed and comfort. If you’re in the market for a new pair of running shoes, we’ve compiled this list of top shoes for all your running needs.
Whether you’re looking for speed, comfort, support, or the latest and greatest technology, you can probably find a pair of running shoes to fit the bill from Nike’s current lineup.
Best Nike Running Shoes
Marathon or Road Racer: ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% ($250)
At the top of our list is Nike’s latest shoe. The Vaporfly came out with its revolutionary technology in 2017. Designed for efficiency, it helps runners lose the least amount of energy per step.
This shoe really proved itself worthy when Eliud Kipchoge set the current marathon world record of 2:01:39 (and later running 1:59:40) wearing the Vaporfly prototype. Nike claims this is its fastest shoe ever.
This shoe is generally best used for road racing and marathons and is created for long wear and energy efficiency. The breathable upper is made from Nike’s light and strong VaporWeave material, and the underfoot cushioning technology provides Nike’s acclaimed energy return.
It also made our list for best marathon running shoes, so give that a read if you’re looking for more marathon-specific shoes!
- Drop: 8 mm
- Weight (per pair): 14.2 oz. (unisex)
Everyday Trainer: Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 — Women’s & Men’s ($120)
This shoe is your everyday trainer. The Pegasus 37 is Nike’s newest everyday trainer, upgraded from the Pegasus 35 and 36. With this Pegasus, Nike has added more cushioning, including an all-new Air Zoom cushioning unit to the midsole for more rebound.
The shoe is thin and lightweight. Built with mesh on the sides, it has a very aerodynamic look. Reviewers on Nike’s website say that this shoe has helped their form while walking and running, and it provides good support for their ankles and knees.
- Drop: 10 mm
- Weight (per pair): 16.6 oz. women’s / 20.1 oz. men’s
Trail Shoe: Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 6 — Women’s & Men’s ($130)
For all the trail runners out there, this shoe was made for you. It was designed for uneven, rocky trails and can take on aggressive and wet terrain with its grippy outsole. In the forefoot, the shoe is equipped with a segmented rock plate to help shield your foot on rough terrain.
The shoe is lightweight and flexible. The Nike React technology is designed to give you the cushioned yet responsive feel you want on the trails. And the shoe doesn’t sacrifice comfort, either. The upper is made with a soft mesh to secure your foot, and the padded tongue helps relieve pressure on longer runs.
- Drop: 4 mm
- Weight (per pair): 17 oz. women’s / 20.5 oz. men’s
Speed Trainer: Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo 2 — Women’s & Men’s ($180)
Designed for speed, the Pegasus Turbo 2 can be used for racing or daily training when you feel like picking up the pace. You can take it on the roads for training or racing, or hop on the treadmill to get your mileage.
To create this shoe, Nike took features from its other shoes and pieced them together. The ZoomX midsole foam from the Vaporfly provides cushioning and rebound for efficiency. Plus, you get a layer of Nike React for added durability.
The shoe saves on weight with a thin rubber outsole and an ultrathin tongue. Its lightweight nature and its enthusiastic ride make it good for race day and also practical for everyday use.
- Drop: 8 mm women’s / 10 mm men’s
- Weight (per pair): 11.2 oz. women’s / 16.2 oz. men’s
Cushioned Trainer: Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit — Women’s & Men’s ($160)
Nike designed this ultracushioned shoe to help prevent injuries, according to the brand. If you need comfort and stability, this is your shoe. With its Nike React high foam stack and wide base, you get the best of both worlds with cushion and stability.
Customers rave about the extra cushion in the reviews for this shoe on Nike’s website. They say these shoes have been great for runners with weak ankles and knees, providing extra support for these problem areas.
Nike added its new version of the Flyknit technology to the upper for added durability. If you’re looking for an everyday go-to running shoe, consider adding this pair to your collection.
- Drop: 8.4 mm women’s / 9 mm men’s
- Weight (per pair): 16.2 oz. women’s / 20.5 oz. men’s
All-Around Trainer: Nike Air Zoom Winflo 7 — Women’s & Men’s ($90)
This is Nike’s most affordable running shoe and gets the job done as an everyday running shoe. Its soft, springy midsole and a supportive foam heel provide cushion. And you can take it on a variety of terrain — it can handle everything from paved roads to easy dirt trails.
You can use the Air Zoom Winflo for everything from short daily runs to marathon distances. This versatile shoe is a very practical option at an affordable price.
- Drop: 10 mm
- Weight (per pair): 18 oz. women’s / 21 oz. men’s
What to Look for in a Running Shoe
Choosing a running shoe comes down to a few important factors. When looking for your ideal running shoes, make sure to ask yourself a few questions before you start shopping. Once you have a good gauge on what you need in a running shoe, you’ll get the most out of your investment and enjoy putting in the miles.
Activity level: Determining how much you plan on running and what type of running you want to focus on will help inform your decision. How often are you running? What type of training are you doing? And are you going for speed or long distance?
Foot type: Next, consider how your foot shape and what type of comfort or stability you need, considering any past injuries. Getting the right size shoe, for both length and width, is also important. It’s usually recommended to go for a half size up for the best comfort.
Surface: Finally, think about what surfaces you generally run on. Nike’s shoes fall into three categories: track, trail, or road running. Assess what your usual terrain is and buy accordingly.
