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If you like a versatile, cushioned running shoe that doesn’t weigh you down and feels peppy enough for faster paces, you should be looking at Nike.
Nike running shoes continually push the envelope with new technology and innovative designs; from racing models for PB-seekers to durable trainers for beginners, nike air max plus blue white cw7024 400 release date info best running shoes going.
Nike was the first brand to introduce ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) cushioning, setting the modern standard, industry-wide. It also invented many of the special features found in today’s running shoes, including air-filled cells that soak up impact forces and carbon fibre plates that increase energy return.
To help you navigate the brand’s current shoe line-up and cutting-edge shoe technologies, we’ve highlighted the best performance shoes Nike makes below, including models for every kind of running, from racing, to training, trail running and more.
What to consider when shopping for Nike running shoes
Nike offers a number of different types of running shoes — here's what to consider when deciding if the brand is right for you.
How we test
All of the shoes below have been tested, with feedback from RW editors and our wider team of wear testers. To make this guide as helpful as possible, we've focused on performance running shoes that feature the brand’s latest cushioning foams, midsole tech, and upper designs, while making sure to pick models for all kinds of runners, from shoes for trail runners, to beginners and overpronators.
Why trust us?
Runner’s World UK has been vetting and reviewing running gear and tech since 1983. Our essential recommendations, including all kinds of running shoes, are selected based on data and insights gathered by our editors, who put the latest and greatest running shoes and gear through their paces day in and day out. In 2024, the Runner’s World test team is led by e-commerce editor Ali Ball, an 11-time marathoner and ultramarathoner who has over seven years experience testing fitness gear, including a number of Nike running shoes.
Best Nike running shoes for the road
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Pros
- Stable ride
- Ideal for racing and speed sessions
- Cushioned and supremely responsive
- Breathable upper and flawless lockdown
Cons
- Seriously pricey
- Heavier than Vaporfly
- Nike LeBron 9 Summit Lake Hornets Up Close
| Weight | 218g (M), 174g (W) |
|---|---|
| Heel-to-toe drop | 8mm |
> Read our full Nike Alphafly 3 review here <
When the late Kelvin Kiptum set the men's marathon world record in October 2023, he wore a prototype of these shoes. And there surely can't be a better recommendation for a shoe that that. When you run, the shoe propels you forward – the faster you run, the more you feel it. Even if you can't run at world record pace – and who can? – the energy saving will maximise your PB chances over any distance, but particularly the Live races.
For the latest iteration, Nike has used a continuous outsole for increased stability and an all-new last (shoe mould), fleshed out around the midfoot. These changes make the shoe a lot more comfortable than the Alphafly 2, reducing rubbing through the midfoot and on the Achilles, and give you confidence rounding corners. One of our testers wore these to race a half-marathon and had no blisters or hotspots after, unlike the V2.
The ride is punchy and light, with more of a tippy sensation on each step than the previous iteration. However, this just adds to the overall liveliness and enjoyment of the ride.
Pros
- Softer and more responsive than v40
- Affordable, daily workhorse
- Secure mid-foot band
- Breathable upper
- Uses 43% less carbon than v40
Cons
- Not nimble enough for speed work
- Lacks the cushioning of maximalist shoes
| Type | Neutral |
|---|---|
| Weight | 251g (M), 297g (W) |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 10mm |
> Read more about the Nike Pegasus 41 here <
There's a reason that the Pegasus is in its 41th iteration — the 'workhorse with wings' really does deliver. The focus for the latest version has been on upping the shoe’s responsiveness, so there’s a new ReactX midsole which, according to Nike, provides 13% more energy return than the Pegasus 40.
There’s been a 1mm increase in the stack height, with the Pegasus 41 coming in at 34mm at the heel and 24mm at the forefoot. While it’s certainly not one of the new generation of maximalist cushioned shoes, when you step in to the Pegasus, you do immediately feel that comfort hugging your foot securely in place. The 10mm heel-to-toe drop remains the same and there’s the usual Air Zoom units in the forefoot and the heel to complete the cushioning system.
The Pegasus 41 offers a solid, stable and comfortably cushioned ride, and it's a shoe that can take a lot of mileage and a lot of pounding on the tarmac. While it may not feel nimble enough to be a speed-day shoe of choice, its durability and comfort make it a supremely reliable everyday training option.
Pros
- Fast and lively ride
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- More comfortable fit
Cons
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- Low durability
| Type | Performance |
|---|---|
| Weight | 198g (M), 164g (W) |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 8mm |
A go-to for many serious racers, the third iteration of the Vaporfly feels just as lively and fast as the previous two. Nike has overhauled the Vaporfly from the rubber up, looking to make it the lightest yet. One attempt to shave weight came in the midsole shaping, with foam now removed from places where it’s not needed. Gone, too, is the slab of rubber under the forefoot, replaced with a web of diamond-shaped lugs. According to our testers, the new construction eliminates the loud, slappy sensation found in almost all the new super shoes.
One gripe: the Flyknit upper is extremely thin and breathable, but it doesn’t stretch at all, so take care not to lace up too tightly.
Editor's note: We're currently in the process of testing the Vaporfly 4, Nike Air Force 1 Mid 07 Grey Fog and Enamel Green 27.5cm.
Pros
- Supremely comfortable over Live distances
- Cushioned yet responsive
- Stable ride
- More secure, breathable upper than previous model
Cons
- Can be slippy on wet surfaces
- May be too cushioned for some
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| Type | Neutral |
|---|---|
| Weight | 310g (M), 258g (W) |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 9mm |
> Read our full Nike Invincible 3 review here <
The Invincible is a shoe that offers cushioning and comfort in abundance and for anyone looking for a daily shoe that is all about cruising about rather than crushing PBs.
The upper is where most of the work has been done between version two and three, and the previously thicker, less breathable Flyknit has been replaced with a more breathable and less sketchy Flyknit upper that helps lock the foot into place and gives the shoe a more secure feeling.
The comfort comes from the large chunk of ZoomX foam couple with an oversized footprint. These shoes really are at best when used for easy running all the way up to some tempo work. They’d be ideal for marathons too (and beyond), if your aim is to finish rather than race for the line with your heart jumping out of your chest.
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| Weight | 322G (M), 263g (W) |
|---|---|
| Stack height | 37mm (heel), 27mm (forefoot) |
| Drop | 10mm |
The Nike structure is another staple in the brand’s line-up. The everyday hero trainer is for those who need – unsurprisingly – structure and stability. The latest iteration ticks those boxes neatly, with plush cushioning and stability in spades.
Unlike the Nike Vomero, however, the midsole is made not from the premium ZoomX foam but the more standard Cushion 3.0, so while you get comfort, you don’t get quite the same peppy ride. But then, the Structure isn’t designed for speed – it’s made for eating up long, slow runs for those who need the enhanced arch support, a substantial heel counter and the sock-like fit that’s certainly provided here. There’s also even more cushioning in that midsole than the previous model. Having said that, the Zoom Air unit in the forefoot offers energy return and propulsion if you pick up the pace.
The upper is a single-layer mesh, designed to provide breathability, though the fabric is still robust, meaning it will cope with winter on the roads. The flywire cables integrated into the lacing system provide a non-slip fit and the padded tongue is super comfy. With its solid construction and a grippy outsole, this is also a seriously durable shoe that should see you through a lot of miles.
Pros
- Peppy and versatile ride
- Snug, performance-focused fit
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Cons
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| Weight | 265g (UK 9) |
|---|---|
| Stack height | 42mm (heel), 34mm (forefoot) |
| Drop | 8mm |
> Read our full Nike Zoom Fly 6 review <
Until this year, Nike had been noticeably lagging toward the back of the pack when it came to the super trainer – the high stack, carbon-plated training and racing hybrid. Not for any Live, though, as the Nike Zoom Fly 6 offers versatility in spades.
The Zoom Fly 5's controversial recycled ZoomX foam has gone in favour of a full slab of ZoomX foam (not called out as recycled). Underneath is a layer of SR-02 EVA foam (a firmer foam) for stability and support, with a full-length carbon fibre FlyPlate sandwiched in between. The Zoom Fly 6 also packs in more foam than the Zoom Fly 5 and is the biggest of any Nike running shoe so far.
Our tester described this shoe as a grower: it might not be as bouncy as Nike's higher-end racing models, but the dual-midsole in conjunction with the ZoomFly Plate creates a consistent and responsive ride that shines on tempo runs and long training sessions. In fact, it's hard not to run fast in these shoes, with the pronounced rocker geometry helping to roll you forward. The downside of this is that it does make the shoe awkward to walk around in (much like its racing counterparts) and it's worth noting that the shoe does have more of a performance-orientated fit, running on the narrower side.
Overall, a great option for people who may not feel 'fast' enough for top-tier racing shoes and don't mind a little more weight, or marathon runners looking for a fun yet affordable training shoe.
Pros
- Very accommodating
- Surprisingly responsive
- Nike Blazer Low 77 Jumbo White Alpha Orange 29cm
Cons
- You prefer something with more ground feel
| Weight | 325g (men’s), 263g (women’s) |
|---|---|
| Stack height | 46mm (heel), 36mm (forefoot) |
| Drop | 10mm |
The latest iteration of Nike’s mega-plush Vomero range promises supreme comfort for even the longest training runs and races, not to mention the tallest midsole so far and a level of responsiveness not previously hva in the Vomero family.
A slick-looking running shoe that operates well at both faster and more leisurely paces, it envelops the foot like a proper hug – it’s soft, snug and secure, but not stifling or slow.
Nike air jordan 1 tie-dye кросівки чоловічі найк tempo sessions. Thanks to the marriage of soft ZoomX foam and snappy ReactX foam in the midsole, the Vomero 18 has many gears and can fluidly move between efforts. Want to dial it back for an easy run? No problem – this shoe has the cushioning you need to glide along nicely, without any jarring ground impact forces. Want to put your foot on the gas? Not an issue – we were pleasantly surprised by the responsiveness of this shoe, with the pronounced rocker geometry assisting a quicker turnover and zippy toe-off.
As such, the Vomero 18 accommodates every type of runner. New runners can take their first, comfy steps in this shoe, then continue wearing it as they build up their confidence and pace. More experienced runners can equally enjoy this shoe for most training runs of the week, while even the fastest runners can wear this max-cushioned number for recovery runs.
Pros
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- Secure and snug fit
Cons
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- Midsole foam lacks responsiveness
| Type | Neutral |
|---|---|
| Weight | 325g (M), 262g (W) |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 10mm |
Now we are at a point where it's increasingly difficult to find a pair of good running shoes for under £100, the Winflo 11 are a great budget option for new runners or those looking for a reliable workhorse for regular runs at a pocket-friendly price.
Sure, you won’t get the lighter, more responsive foams or carbon plates of some of the brand’s racier, more pricy options, but the Cushlon 3.0 midsole is still pretty soft and smooth riding, and the full-length Zoom Air unit offers some responsiveness.
The latest iteration has a more spacious forefoot and wider heel to provide a better fit for all foot types. The mesh upper has been enhanced to provide even better breathability, too, and the Flywire cables under the lacing provide a secure and snug fit. There’s also a smoother, softer lining inside the shoe to enhance overall comfort, and softened tongue padding.
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Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX
Pros
- Cushioned and comfortable
- Nike Air Max Tailwind IV SE 2 2
- Roomy toebox
- Grippy outsole
Cons
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- A little unstable for technical terrain
| Weight | 253g (UK 5.5), |
|---|---|
| Stack height | 37mm (heel), 27.5mm (forefoot) |
| Drop | 9.5mm |
| Lug depth | 3.5mm |
> Read our full Nike Pegasus Trail 5 review <
Don’t let the GTX fool you into thinking this is some kind of extreme model for only the severest conditions and most technical terrain. It’s actually a true road/trail hybrid, with a ReactX foam midsole (used in the Pegasus 41 road shoe) that feels great on the pavement. And, though the GTX distinction suggests ankle-high waterproofness, the material only reaches to the top of the laces. The gaiter collar is instead a stretchy fabric, preferable for shielding against trail debris and light drizzle.
The outsole uses Nike's all-terrain compound, which performs wonderfully well on all surfaces and, in further evidence of the Peg GTX’s road-to-trail multitool creds, especially so on the road.
Off the road, it’s at its best on harder packed less technical trails, grass and dirt paths, providing a lively, responsive but smooth and nicely cushioned ride. The traction isn’t quite aggressive enough when things get really steep or slippy, though. Protective elements are also dialled down compared to the most extreme trail models, although the latest version has a 3D printed toe. Unless you’re tackling something really extreme, though, there’s enough to keep you safe and comfortable.
Pros
- Responsive ride
- Capable of handling moderately technical terrains
- New Vibram outsole
Cons
- Nike Lunar Force 1 High ID Iridescent tristanbanning
- Upper lacks breathability
| Type | Neutral |
|---|---|
| Weight | 320g (M), 262g (W) |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 4mm |
> Read our full Nike Zegama 2 review <
Named after a mountain race in northern Spain, the Zegama is Nike’s most technical trail shoe. In recent years, Nike trail shoes haven’t been known to tackle the world’s hardest mountain tracks, but the Zegama impressed. The midsole is made from ZoomX – the same stuff used in the Vaporfly and Alphafly racing shoes. On its own it’s too fragile for very technical trails, so it’s enclosed in a more durable carrier foam for better longevity. The result is a cushioned and responsive ride.
The first iteration of the Zegama lost points for its outsole, which offered very little grip, particularly on the muddy trails most of us encounter in the UK. So, the Zegama 2’s new Vibram MegaGrip outsole is welcome news indeed. It offers significantly more traction across a wide range of off-road conditions, from muddy trails to gravel to sand.
The upper is built to handle rugged ground. However, we did find that the Zegama runs hot. The result of this, at least for one of our testers, was the development of hotspots under both feet.
Pros
- Excellent balance of cushioning and ground feel
- Grippy, Vibram outsole
- Fit true to size
Cons
- Not for sloppy mud
- Wideness can minimise nimbleness
- Upper can run hot
| Weight | 300g (men's size 9) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 8.5mm |
> Read our full Nike Ultrafly review <
If you’re racing dry, long trails then these shoes are pretty fantastic and just eat up the miles, hitting a sweet spot between grip, cushioning and ground feel.
The midsole is made from the same ZoomX as the Vaporfly and Alphafly 3 models, but if you were hoping that it performs the same, prepare to be disappointed. The Ultrafly Trail certainly has materials and elements that are similar to its road counterpart, but it's a wholly different shoe and experience in its own right.
Nike brought some structure to the foam by wrapping it in a material to add some structural integrity (and also to protect it) which seems to have done the trick. This firmer ride is a welcome attribute on the trails where ground feel is paramount.
This sense of feel is enhanced by the wide toe box and even wider forefoot platform. On the bottom, a Vibram outsole strikes a good balance between speed and grip and worked well on all surfaces, but it truly excelled on the dry, loose stuff like gravel, forest trails, hard packed earth and even sand. It also handles some mud relatively well, but it’s not a shoe for trails that are consistently sloppy with mud.
