Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 review

Who should buy the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39

Grab a pair of Nike Pegasus 39 if you're looking for a:

• reliable all-rounder that's durable and stable
• Nike Pegasus that brings back the feel of the well-loved Nike Peg 36 and is a lighter version of the Pegasus 38

Who should NOT buy it

If you want a highly breathable shoe that's ready to beat the heat and is comfy for recovery efforts, the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 is anything but a disappointment. And if it's a spacious toe room you're after, the Nike Vomero 16 will serve you better. 

Nike Pegasus 39 vs. 38

The Peg 38 and 39 may not be "massively different" as one expert described them, but the subtle changes in this version reunite Pegasus fans everywhere, thanks to its: 

• lighter weight, dropping it down to 261 grams/9.2 ounces in men's US 9 from 281 grams/9.9 ounces
• more locked-in fit 
• better responsiveness owed to the added Zoom Air units in the heel and forefoot
• stickier grip from the redesigned outsole

Nails it in the fit department

It addresses some of the issues runners had with the 37 and 38. With its revamped upper, the Nike Pegasus Air Zoom 39 has earned these remarks from verified buyers:

• it "prevents heel slip"
• "toe box feels roomier" 

However, if you're a wide-footed runner, we're sorry to report that this shoe is still not roomy enough for an accommodating fit. 

Everything you expect from a Pegasus

Judging from the reviews it has garnered, it's clear that the Nike Pegasus 39 is a "fantastic all-rounder." It's reactive when picking up the pace, departing from its (as runners have called it) "sluggish" precursors like the Nike Peg 37 and 38. 

And for long runs, it feels squishier; thus, cushier. Even better, it "hits the sweet spot" in slow, mid-distance runs. 

An anchor to your feet

Not exactly weight-wise, but stability-wise. Out of all the runners who mentioned stability, more than half of them agree that it "feels planted" when cornering. This is thanks to the shoe's relatively firm midsole and tacky grip.

Take something else for recovery days

The new Zoom Air pod in the forefoot creates a "disjointed feel" that makes the heel-to-toe transitions suffer. What's worse is the airbag feels intrusive; the "lumpy sensation" gets in the way when really slowing it down. 

The Pegasus 39 goes on a diet

It's not only lighter than its predecessor; it's also lighter than its peers like the Brooks Ghost 14 (280 grams/9.9 ounces) and the NB 880 v11 (275 grams/9.7 ounces).

Despite it being considered by some as "bottom-heavy" because of the copious amount of rubber it has, the general consensus about the Peg's "big weight loss" has been positive.

Lockdown has never been this good

Especially for a Nike Pegasus. In this iteration, the Nike Flywire makes a "triumphant return," providing a snug midfoot lockdown. What's more is it doesn't cut into your feet.

Complementing it is the shoe's tongue that's attached to the inner sleeve. It not only locks the foot in; it also prevents tongue slide.

The Nike Pegasus Air Zoom 39 wraps so securely; "excellent" has been the most frequent word used to describe its foothold. 

Uh-oh, it's can't take the heat

The upper is very padded; it's comfortable straight out of the box. Because of this, road runners claim that they haven't had any hot spots or blisters. So much so that they find it a "homey match" for all-day, casual wear. 

But of course, this comes with a price. And that's breathability (or the lack thereof). One runner claims that even when running between 6 to 8 AM in Malaysia where the sun is not scorching hot yet, his feet begged for the shoe to be taken off. 

As durable as a Pegasus can be

It's "built like a tank." This summarizes the majority's take on the shoe's durability. It can withstand hundreds of kilometers; its strength is "first-class." 

After a series of wear testing, the outsole barely shows any sign of wear. As per experts, it can outlast the rest of the shoe's components. And if it's not clear enough, it's safe to say that the Pegasus 39's agenda is all about durability>fun. 

Sticks better than your regular daily trainers

This is especially true on wet concrete, light trails, and grassy terrain. 83% of the critics find it "one of the most aggressive outsole setups" they've ever encountered in a daily running shoe. They even claim that it has an "octopus-sucker-like" grip!