10 Best Nike Cushioned Running Shoes in 2022

Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen on
| Reviewed using methodology 1.4

Whether for morning jogs, marathons, or recovery runs, Nike offers some of the best well-cushioned running shoes on the market. Wearing a pair with great cushioning provides many benefits, aside from giving you a super-soft ride and smoother transitions on the road or off the beaten paths.

We’ve rounded up 100+ Nike cushioned running shoes, reviewed and selected our best picks in five different categories, from best overall and most popular choices to highest-rated in road and trail running. We also have our best picks in the budget-friendly category.

Whatever preferences and running requirements you have in mind, we can help narrow down the top choices that will give you the best bang for your buck.

Best overall
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38
$120 $73 From Nike
Best road
Nike Free Run 5.0 Nike Free Run 5.0
$100 $77 From Amazon
Best trail
Nike Wildhorse 7 Nike Wildhorse 7
$130 $104 From Road Runner Sports
Best value
Nike Revolution 6 Nike Revolution 6
$75 From Amazon
Most popular
Nike Zoom Fly 4 Nike Zoom Fly 4
$160 $110 From Champs Sports
See all 164 nike cushioned running shoes

Overview of this guide

How we test running shoes

At RunRepeat, we use a data-driven process to come up with comprehensive and no-BS reviews of the best-cushioned running shoes from the Nike brand. Each model is put to the wringer to get a closer look at how they fare in our rigorous wear tests and lab testing.

Our entire process involves:

  • Buying all the running shoes with our own personal funds. We do this to make sure we’re free from any bias and brand loyalty.
  • Cut each model into pieces. Yes, we cut the shoes into little parts and measure 30+ parameters, from cushioning, in-shoe construction, breathability, and many others.
  • Testing the shoes in actual training and racing conditions. We record our impression of wearing the shoes for at least 30-50 miles.
  • Collecting information from shoe experts and regular users and putting them in a summary.

To conclude the review, we added up all comparable data we’ve aggregated and calculated their final ratings using our CoreScore system. Each pair of shoes is assigned a number from 0-100 that reflects its ranking as compared to others.

Best Nike cushioned running shoes overall

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38
$73
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$105
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$115
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$120
See deal  
Top pick

Corescore

86
Great!
4.3 / 5 from 2,306 users
88 / 100 from 21 experts

Pros

  • Wider than Pegasus 37
  • Very stable ride
  • Peppy toe-off
  • Hugs your feet 
  • Padded upper
  • Very durable (400-500miles)
  • Grippy even on dirt roads
  • Legit workhorse
  • Doubles as a gym shoe
  • A joy to run in

Cons

  • Runs warm
  • Above-average weight

Verdict

If there's one thing we can't take away from the Pegasus 38, it's that it's the GOAT of all workhorse shoes in our arsenal! It oozes with plushness, stability, and pop. It can do slow days, tempo sessions, and even gym workouts. If you want a fun ride, take the Pegasus 38!
See our full review and facts
Nike Quest 4
Nike Quest 4
$52
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$75
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$92
See deal  
No stock  
Also great

Corescore

74
Bad!
4.1 / 5 from 189 users
N/A

Pros

  • True to size
  • Wider than other Nikes
  • Breathable
  • Durable
  • Very affordable 
  • Grippy thanks to mini lugs
  • Sleek modern looks
  • Great, secure fit
  • Outstanding weight

Cons

  • Not a springy ride
  • Short runs only

Verdict

Nike Quest 4 fills a niche with a trendy-looking shoe at a bargain price. If you desire that Nike swoosh and have less than $80 in your pocket there aren’t many options, but surprisingly this stylish trainer fits the bill! You can use it for easy short runs and enjoy it's lightness and crazy good grip.
See our full review and facts

Best Nike road cushioned running shoes

Nike Free Run 5.0
Nike Free Run 5.0
$77
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$100
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$100
See deal  
$100
See deal  
Top pick

Corescore

83
Good!
4.3 / 5 from 12,271 users
86 / 100 from 1 experts

Pros

  • Insane lightness
  • Glove-like fit
  • Heel loop
  • Easy lacing system
  • Super breathable 
  • True to size
  • Comfotable as an everyday slipper
  • Extremely flexible

Cons

  • Short runs only
  • Lack of proper outsole
  • Insole not removable

Verdict

Ah, the Nike Free Run… Calling this a running shoe is a stretch, but there’s still a vestige of folks out there in the minimalist fan group that likes the slipper-like feel of Nike’s long-running “Free” lineup. The 2021 update steers back toward a less bizarre-looking shoe than we saw in 2020 but continues with the ultralight and ultra-flexible design.
See our full review and facts
Nike Downshifter 11
Nike Downshifter 11
$60
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$60
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$95
See deal  
No stock  
Also great

Corescore

82
Good!
4.4 / 5 from 3,103 users
79 / 100 from 3 experts

Pros

  • Wider fit
  • Lightweight
  • Super durable outsole
  • Breathable
  • True to size
  • Insanely good value
  • Beginner-friendly
  • Great for every day and gym

Cons

  • Entry-level feel
  • Firm underfoot

Verdict

With plenty of flex, a vented, breathable mesh upper, and a price tag at $60, the Nike Downshifter is a serious bargain for a daily trainer.
See our full review and facts

Best Nike trail cushioned running shoes

Nike Wildhorse 7
Nike Wildhorse 7
$104
See deal  
$105
See deal  
$108
See deal  
$130
See deal  
Top pick

Corescore

85
Great!
4.6 / 5 from 507 users
73 / 100 from 9 experts

Pros

  • True to size 
  • Superb grip in dry conditions
  • Rock plate for extra protection
  • Semi gaiters keep the debris out
  • Built for off trails
  • Pushes you to run
  • Great for hiking as well
  • Awesome looks

Cons

  • Needs breaking in
  • Runs hot
  • Heel might slip
  • Not for a wide forefoot

Verdict

Pacing it through rocky and off-trail terrain, hands down, the Nike Wildhorse 7 just rocks! It made each of our steps confident and its protection just took everything to a whole new level. For a trail shoe, this is what we consider comfortable. It's not pillowy soft but has enough give to keep the foot cushioned and strain-free. All of this, however, comes at the price of heft.
See our full review and facts
Nike Pegasus Trail 3
Nike Pegasus Trail 3
$98
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$105
See deal  
$121
See deal  
$130
See deal  
Also great

Corescore

89
Great!
4.5 / 5 from 160 users
87 / 100 from 13 experts

Pros

  • Soft, bouncy ride
  • Very comfortable
  • True to size
  • Wide for a Nike
  • Wide loop on heel
  • Built to last
  • Reflective swoosh
  • Killer grip on dry trails

Cons

  • Not grippy in wet
  • Runs warm

Verdict

The Pegasus road series just holds a special place in our feet, we just had to see it in trail action. And voila! 50 miles later, the Nike Pegasus Trail 3 won us over with its uber plush landings! It's stable and comfy and will make your run cloud-like. When faced with slick surfaces, however, it shows its limitations.
See our full review and facts

Best value Nike cushioned running shoes

Nike Revolution 6
Nike Revolution 6
$75
See deal  
No stock  
No stock  
No stock  
Top pick

Corescore

77
Decent!
4.1 / 5 from 519 users
72 / 100 from 2 experts

Pros

  • Fits true to size
  • Peppy midsole
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good amount of flexibility
  • Consistent performance in any condition
  • Great as leisurewear

Cons

  • Runs narrow
  • Poor lacing
  • Lacks grip

Verdict

The Nike Revolution 6 is a really popular running shoe that feels more and more like a sneaker the more we try it out. With an exciting feeling midsole, the Revolution 6 is ready for some short, fun adventures, but may not be your best bet for serious running.
See our full review and facts
Nike Air Max Torch 4
Nike Air Max Torch 4
$107
See deal  
No stock  
No stock  
No stock  
Also great

Corescore

90
Superb!
4.6 / 5 from 23,534 users
87 / 100 from 8 experts

Pros

  • True to size
  • Well-cushioned
  • Snug fit
  • Durable
  • Very comfortable
  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • Heavy
  • Stiff
  • Looks clunky and too bright
  • Not for technical terrain
  • Not breathable

Verdict

Touted as a light trail running shoe, the Nike Air Max Torch 4 sports quality features that are ready to beat the competition. Packed with Nike's innovative midsole components, the running shoe offers premium support and lockdown. Although packed with many technologies, this runner does not sacrifice weight. With the Nike Air Torch 4, athletes are geared for comfort, protection, and superior grip on any type of terrain.
See our full review and facts

Most popular Nike cushioned running shoes

Nike Zoom Fly 4
Nike Zoom Fly 4
$110
See deal  
$137
See deal  
$160
See deal  
$160
See deal  
Top pick

Corescore

86
Great!
4.4 / 5 from 107 users
84 / 100 from 9 experts

Pros

  • Rockered toe design
  • Propulsive  
  • Breathable
  • Affordable for carbon-plated shoe
  • Sock-like fit
  • Large heel-loop
  • True to size
  • Feels like more stable Vaporfly
  • Snug and secure fit
  • Perfect for carbon newbies

Cons

  • Stiff
  • Unstable at slower speeds
  • Grippy on dry road only

Verdict

Zoom Fly 4 feels like a Vaporfly but it's more durable and designed for everyday speed training. Finally a shoe that can go fast often! And with a price point way below its carbon-plated competitors, what's not to love!
See our full review and facts
Nike React Phantom Run Flyknit 2
Nike React Phantom Run Flyknit 2
$91
See deal  
$94
See deal  
$140
See deal  
$140
See deal  
Also great

Corescore

86
Great!
4.6 / 5 from 1,152 users
84 / 100 from 3 experts

Pros

  • Laceless design
  • Grips well on dry surfaces
  • Breathable
  • Easy to put on/off
  • Stylish and good-looking
  • Great everyday sneaker 

Cons

  • Not comfortable for long or fast-paced runs
  • Poor durability
  • Unstable at sharp turns

Verdict

Given its slip-on, laceless design, Nike React Phantom Run Flyknit 2 is more often used as an every-day sneaker than a running shoe. It's best used for short and easy runs, especially in summer when it's highly breathable upper gets the spotlight.
See our full review and facts

What are the most popular Nike cushioned running shoes in 2022?

  1. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38
  2. Nike Free Run 5.0
  3. Nike Zoom Fly 4
  4. Nike Revolution 6
  5. Nike Pegasus Trail 3
  6. Nike Quest 4
  7. Nike Downshifter 11
  8. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 2
  9. Nike Wildhorse 7
  10. Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next%
  11. Nike Air Max Torch 4
  12. Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16
  13. Nike React Miler 2
  14. Nike ZoomX Invincible Run
  15. Nike Juniper Trail

See all Nike cushioned running shoes sorted by popularity

What are the cheapest Nike cushioned running shoes in 2022?

  1. Nike Flex Run 2021 - from $50
  2. Nike Quest 4 - from $52
  3. Nike Juniper Trail - from $60
  4. Nike Downshifter 11 - from $60
  5. Nike Revolution 6 - from $65
  6. Nike Run Swift 2 - from $68
  7. Nike Renew Ride 2 - from $68
  8. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 FlyEase - from $68
  9. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 - from $73
  10. Nike Free Run 5.0 - from $77
  11. Nike React Miler 2 - from $87
  12. Nike Air Zoom Winflo 8 - from $90
  13. Nike Pegasus Trail 3 - from $98
  14. Nike Wildhorse 7 - from $104
  15. Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 - from $105

See all Nike cushioned running shoes sorted by lowest price

Author
Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen

Jens Jakob is a fan of short distances with a 5K PR at 15:58 minutes. Based on 35 million race results, he's among the fastest 0.2% runners. Jens Jakob previously owned a running store, when he was also a competitive runner. His work is regularly featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, BBC and the likes as well as peer-reviewed journals. Finally, he has been a guest on +30 podcasts on running.

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