7 Best Nike Running Shoes, 100+ Shoes Tested in 2023

Nike needs no introduction. The brand offers some of the widest selections of highly-rated running shoes for both beginners and seasoned runners. RunRepeat is here to help you navigate this massive selection of Nike runners.
We have reviewed nearly 200 Nike running shoes to help you narrow down the choices. If you are easily satisfied with the best, here are our top picks in different categories.
And if you’d like to learn more about various Nike collections, skip to our guide below the shoe reviews.
How we test running shoes
Nike is a serious brand. But we are even more serious here at RunRepeat. Equipped with our proprietary shoe testing methodology, we go beyond the vague marketing statements to find out which Nike shoe is truly the best. Here is what we take each shoe through:
- We purchase Nike shoes with our own funds to stay unbiased while testing every new release.
- We cut, slice, and measure all Nike shoes in our lab to test them on more than 30 different parameters like durability, breathability, flexibility, and others.
- Our testers run 30-50 miles a week to provide extensive feedback on each Nike model.
- We also reflect thousands of expert and user reviews in our scores for a more comprehensive overview.
As a result, each Nike shoe receives a CoreScore, a number from 0 to 100, which helps us define the best Nike running shoes on the market.
Best Nike running shoes overall
CoreScore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
- Top 30% in running shoes
- Top 30% in running shoes for beginners
- Top 2% most popular running shoes
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
A shoe that’s it’s nearing its 40th iteration definitely does something right. But we still had to make sure by putting it through some rough wear tests and comparing it to over 200 other Nike shoes.
And the Nike Pegasus still beats them all!
If you are looking for just one go-to for all your daily runs and walks, this is the one. Slower runs, tempo sessions, treadmill, and even some light gym workouts - this is your workhorse.
We find it surprisingly well-fitting for a Nike shoe (most tend to run narrow) and offering a little bit more toe room than the previous versions. We love its fully gusseted tongue that locks you down so well.
Its cushioning has a fantastic combination of softness (18% softer than average) and responsiveness (thanks to the Zoom Air unit). Together they make you feel so agile that you wouldn’t believe that this shoe is slightly heavier than the average.
Those extra 0.7 oz actually bring the benefit of durability. There was zero wear on the outsole after 30 miles and our lab tests show above-average rubber thickness and stiffness. The Pegasus will serve you well for at least 500 miles.
We are amazed at everything that Nike Pegasus is able to pack for its moderate $120 price tag. This is the GOAT not only among Nike shoes but also made it the top pick of our best running shoes!
Best Nike road running shoes
CoreScore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
- Top 19% in road running shoes
- Top 9% in Nike running shoes
- Top 8% most popular running shoes
Pros
- True to size
- Extremely lightweight
- Bouncy and responsive ride
- Breathable
- Carbon-plated
- Excellent grip
Cons
- Not made for high mileage
- Unstable platform
- Feels tight in the midfoot
Verdict
Best Nike running shoes for race
CoreScore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
- Top 9% in road running shoes
- Top 5% in Nike running shoes
- Top 3% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Insanely lightweight
- Very breathable
- Bouncy
- Responsive
- FAST
- No break-in period needed
- Good grip on dry surfaces
Cons
- Not ideal for wide feet
- Unstable
- Forefoot strikers only
Verdict
If you set out to run a marathon in less than 2 hours, this is THE shoe.
The first Vaporfly turned the world of running shoes upside down by introducing a speed-boosting carbon plate and shattering all the previous records. And we have tried and tested the second iteration thoroughly only to make sure that it is still the absolute winner.
This elite racer is insane! It is a speed monster that keeps you on your toes all throughout the run. The carbon plate sets your feet flying while the unbelievable amount of Nike’s best cushioning foam (ZoomX) will bounce you off to a new PB.
Incredibly lightweight, the Vaporfly is among the lightest racing shoes in history. At 6.9 oz it weighs close to a racing flat while packing a crazy 38.6 mm of cushioning in the heel.
This shoe is not for everybody. It is too narrow and unstable to make a daily trainer but it was never meant for that.
If you are looking for the most cutting-edge Nike shoe for going beyond fast, the Vaporfly Next% is the brand’s number one.
Best Nike trail running shoes
CoreScore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
- Top 16% in trail running shoes
- Top 12% in Nike running shoes
- Top 4% most popular running shoes
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
Oh, how soft! Oh, so sexy! The Nike Pegasus Trail 3 won over our hearts and feet as one of the plushest, max-cushioned trail shoes out there.
There is so much joy in landing on these bad boys that it feels more like its cushy road brother (Pegasus 38). It also has a wider platform than other Nikes: our lab measurements show 116 mm (forefoot) and 92.6 mm (heel) compared to the average 112.8 and 89.3. Nice and stable!
It is also a lasting one. The shoe’s rubber outsole scores above-average on our hardness test, reaching 86HC over the average 79.2HC. It is not wearing out any time soon and we expect it to last as good 500 miles and beyond.
It is definitely a shoe for dry conditions and is also a great door-to-trail shoe. It’s going to feel comfortable even on a walk in a park when you take a break from trails.
If you want to stay away from the stiff, utilitarian off-road trainers, the Nike Pegasus Trail 3 is our absolute favorite. Its ultra-soft landings will make it love at first step for you!
Best Nike running shoes for speedwork
CoreScore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
- Top 24% in road running shoes
- Top 16% in Nike running shoes
- Top 14% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Nice propulsion
- Speed-enhancing
- Great looking design
- Vaporweave is light and breathable
- Well-cushioned
Cons
- React foam is firmer
- High price tag
Verdict
Nike Zoom Fly 3 is the down-to-earth version of the Vaporfly elite racer. But once we put it through our tests, we found nothing “down” about this shoe.
It is a real speedster! It looks fast even when simply standing on the shelf. Visually it is very easy to confuse with the Vapofly.
Packing a similar carbon plate that’s used on the top-tier racers these days, we were impressed with how close it feels to the more expensive models. It sets you flying and at the same time feels stable enough to do your train runs for a marathon or a tempo workout.
This shoe is so versatile, we also find it by far the best value for money option from Nike. You get a hybrid of an elite racer for a price that’s slightly above-average for a regular training shoe.
This shoe passed our long-distance tests (10K) with flying colors that we can also recommend it for running a marathon.
So, if you are not yet ready to ride the insanely fast Vaporfly but want to start getting a feel for it, the Nike Zoom Fly 3 is the best starting point.
Best value Nike running shoes
CoreScore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is to avoid that shoes with few reviews unjustly receives high scores.
Learn more- Top 6% in running shoes for wide feet
- Top 30% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Comfortable upper
- Breathable
- Durable
- Affordable
- Good traction
- Awesome colorways
- Could be a great gym/ casual shoe
Cons
- Not very cushioned
- Too heavy/clunky for speed work
- Laces are pretty short
Verdict
Nike Winflo 8 packs so much comfort into a $90 running shoe you wouldn’t tell it apart from a more expensive one!
We chose this shoe above 60+ other budget Nike’s as this is the closest that a cheaper shoe gets to the more advanced models. If you are looking for a stylish Nike shoe that you can take on daily runs, casual walks, or athleisure, this one will exceed your expectations.
The shoe feels so light and breathable that it makes a perfect pair for warmer weather (up to 80F!).
With its supportive cushioning you can go up to 10K at a time or even wear it all day long. We haven’t noticed any bottoming out of the sole after hours of running and walking.
For the style-oriented runners out there, the shoe is an eye-catcher with its visible Flywire on the top and the sculpted midsole underfoot.
It doesn’t get any better for $90!
Most popular Nike running shoes
CoreScore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is to avoid that shoes with few reviews unjustly receives high scores.
Learn more- Top 9% most popular running shoes
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
Choose the right Nike running shoe: Road or Trail?
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus (road shoe) vs. Nike Pegasus Trail (trail shoe)
Nike road shoes |
Nike trail shoes |
Best for: pavement and surfaces with minor irregularities | Best for: light and rugged trail |
|
|
See all Nike road running shoes | Get your Nike trail running shoes here |
Good to know: It’s fine to wear your trail shoes on the roads, but only at a minimum distance to avoid knee or foot pain. |
Nike trail shoes have a more durable, lugged outsole.
The toe bumper is reinforced on the trail shoe.
Nike shoes for daily running vs. competition
Nike offers running shoes for competition and everyday runs. To help you get the right pair, here's the quick comparison between the two:
Daily trainer: Nike ZoomX Invincible Run (left), Race shoe: Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 (right)
Nike shoes for competition (racing) |
Disclaimer: These are based on how each type of shoe performs in general. This does not apply to a specific model that exists.
If you’re looking for a middle-ground daily trainer that can also go fast, Nike also has a selection of speed training shoes. Lighter, more nimble, and responsive, these trainers are ready for tempo runs, intervals, and even shorter races.
Arch support in Nike running shoes
Depending on the level of support you require, Nike classifies their running shoes into neutral and stability categories.
Neutral |
Stability |
|
|
See neutral Nike running shoes | See stability Nike running shoes (good for flat feet and overpronation) |
Learn more in our in-depth guide on arch support and whether or not you need it.
Additional features in Nike running shoes
Another factor to consider in choosing the best Nike running shoes is the extra features the shoe offers.
Slip-on: Without the fuss of laces, slip-on running shoes allow you to simply slide your foot in and out of the shoe in an instant. Some of these models employ Nike's proprietary FlyEase design.
How it works on the Nike Revolution 5 FlyEase
Reflective: Some Nike running shoes also use Nike's reflective element to give additional visibility on low-light running conditions.
Reflective element on the Nike Pegasus Trail 3
Water-repellent/Waterproof - Some Nike running shoes are equipped with Nike Shield technology, which offers protection from moist and cold weather without compromising breathability. They also have a few shoes equipped with a GTX membrane that gives the feet waterproof protection. See: Nike water-repellent running shoes.
GTX membrane on the Nike Pegasus Trail 2 GTX
Nike Vaporfly Models: Marathon Dominance and Controversy
Nike competition shoes, particularly the Vaporfly models, have shown dominance in major marathons including New York City Marathon, Chicago Marathon, London Marathon, Berlin Marathon, Tokyo Marathon, and Boston Marathon.
In 2018, out of the 12 winners (both men and women categories), 7 were wearing Nike Vaporfly shoes and 10 in 2019.
The controversy around Vaporfly
A study conducted in 2019 found that the new Nike Vaporfly shoes improved an athlete's running economy by 4.2%. This sparked disputes as researchers and runners think that it confers an unfair advantage.
The overall design of the shoe (a combination of the foam layer and carbon-fiber plate) that helps runners run faster ignited a discussion on whether it should be banned or not in competition. But after the World Athletics reviewed all the guidelines, the controversial Nike shoe was given a go for the Tokyo Olympics.