Our verdict

The Nike Winflo 10 shines as an affordable neutral daily trainer with exceptional value. Equipped with full-length Air cushioning, a robust outsole, and a comfy yet durable upper, we think that it's an ideal choice for beginners or anyone looking for a running shoe versatile enough to also serve as a sneaker or gym shoe. However, you get what you pay for, and advanced runners might feel the midsole lacks sufficient energy return.

Pros

  • Combines durability with breathability
  • Exceptionally long-lasting outsole
  • Versatile design for casual wear or cross-training
  • Enhanced plush midsole
  • Air cushioning improves the running experience
  • Easy on the wallet
  • Fantastic for beginners

Cons

  • May not suit forefoot strikers
  • Could benefit from increased energy return

Audience verdict

80
Good!

Who should buy

In our view, the Nike Winflo 10 is an excellent choice for:

  • Beginners starting their running journey who may need a shoe that doubles for walking or gym workouts.
  • Anyone searching for an affordable option that offers plush cushioning and a durable outsole.
  • Neutral runners looking for a comfortable daily trainer at an affordable price.

Nike Winflo 10

Who should NOT buy

For those accustomed to midsoles with impressive energy return, we think this shoe might not meet your expectations.

While it's plush, we found it doesn't provide enough energy return and struggles with faster paces. Within Nike's range, we suggest considering the Pegasus 40 with React foam. On a tighter budget? We think that the Saucony Axon 2 is an excellent alternative.

Nike Winflo 10 parts

We also don't recommend the Winflo 10 for runners with stability issues, as it's a pure neutral daily trainer. If you're seeking an affordable and stable shoe, we suggest checking out the ASICS GT 1000 12.

Breathability

When we unboxed the Winflo 10 in the lab, we initially thought this shoe might earn a mere 2 or 3 out of 5. This assumption came from its rather thick and dense engineered mesh.

But after putting it through our eye-catching smoke-pumping test in the lab, we were pleasantly surprised to award it a nice 4/5.

What led Nike to this impressive outcome? We discovered that it's largely due to the breathability holes scattered throughout the shoe, excluding the heel area.

When illuminated, these holes become abundantly clear. They stand out as the primary reason this shoe shifted from an average score to a great one.

Curious to inspect these breathability holes up close, we turned to our microscope.

Nike Winflo 10 microscope

In this magnified view, there's no missing the details. While the mesh disappears at each hole, a structural layer remains intact, likely enhancing the shoe's durability.

Nike Winflo 10 microscope

Upon examining the interior, we noticed a thin, breathable internal fabric. However, it's so lightweight that it doesn't hinder airflow at all.

Test results
Winflo 10 4
Average 3.8
Compared to 194 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

As we anticipated, the robust mesh of the Winflo 10 showcased its impressive durability in this test.

While many shoes get a mere 1/5 after facing our dremel, the Winflo 10 stood out, securing a fantastic 3/5!

Nike Winflo 10 Toebox durability
Test results
Winflo 10 3
Average 2.3
Compared to 128 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

The heel is soft and cushioned. We often find that such a design can result in less resistance to wear and tear. Yet, with a score of 2/5 in our lab tests, we're not too worried about its durability over time.

Still, those who are prone to wear holes in this area or have issues with heel slippage might want to pay attention to this result.

Nike Winflo 10 Heel padding durability
Test results
Winflo 10 2
Average 3
Compared to 124 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

The outsole of the Winflo 9 ranks among the hardest we've measured in the lab, registering a significant 92.8 HC on our durometer.

Nike Winflo 10 outsole

The famous Bowerman's waffle

With this new version, we discovered that Nike chose a slightly softer compound. It's still on the harder side at 87.4 HC, but it's notably less rigid than its predecessor.

Nike Winflo 10 Outsole hardness
Test results
Winflo 10 87.4 HC
Average 80.3 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 245 running shoes
Number of shoes
55.5 HC
Outsole hardness
92.8 HC

Outsole durability

The hardness of the outsole plays a crucial role in its durability, but other factors, such as the quality of the rubber, also come into play. For example, Continental outsoles might record lower scores compared to their competitors, but they typically last longer and offer superior grip.

Regarding the Winflo 10, we found that after our dremel test in the lab, there was a 0.9-mm indentation. This indicates to us that the quality of the rubber aligns with its budget-friendly price.

Nike Winflo 10 Outsole durability
Test results
Winflo 10 0.9 mm
Average 0.9 mm
Compared to 106 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

In a smart move, Nike added 4.3 mm of rubber beneath the foam.

Even though we know it's not the most durable outsole available, this choice ensures that it will last throughout the shoe's entire lifespan.

Nike Winflo 10 Outsole thickness
Test results
Winflo 10 4.3 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 265 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm

Weight

For a cushioned daily trainer, we were pleasantly surprised to find the Winflo 10 impressively light, weighing in at just 9.5 oz (269g). That's two ounces lighter than its previous version. 

Nike Winflo 10 Weight
Test results
Winflo 10 9.49 oz (269g)
Average 9.38 oz (266g)
Compared to 266 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.56 oz (356g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

When we examined the midsole in the lab, we measured a stack height of 33.5 mm. By today's standards, this might be seen as average, but just a few years ago, it would have been considered maximum cushioning.

Nike Winflo 10 heel stack

One thing is certain—we believe that even the heaviest runners will find comfort running in the Winflo 10.

Nike Winflo 10 Heel stack
Test results
Winflo 10 33.5 mm
Average 33.5 mm
Compared to 265 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Heel stack
42.7 mm

Forefoot stack

In the lab, we measured the forefoot and found it to be somewhat average at 23.8 mm.

We think this shoe is designed more for heel strikers, and this number reflects that.

Nike Winflo 10 Forefoot stack
Test results
Winflo 10 23.8 mm
Average 24.7 mm
Compared to 265 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
34.8 mm

Drop

We measured a 9.7-mm heel-to-toe drop in the lab. This measurement further confirms that the shoe primarily caters to heel strikers.

However, midfoot or forefoot strikers—especially those experiencing issues in their Achilles or calves—might also find it beneficial. The higher drop can assist in relieving stress from these areas.

Nike Winflo 10 Drop
Test results
Winflo 10 9.7 mm
Average 8.8 mm
Compared to 265 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Insole thickness

We measured the insole at 3.9 mm, which is pretty standard. It seems Nike didn't take any risks here.

Stick to what works and... just do it!

Nike Winflo 10 Insole thickness
Test results
Winflo 10 3.9 mm
Average 4.4 mm
Compared to 261 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

Foams are becoming increasingly soft—even in budget-friendly running shoes. This trend, which wasn't typical a few years back, is evident now. The Winflo 10's Cushlon foam measures at only 16.1 HA on our durometer!

This results in a soft experience, further enhanced by the full-length Nike Air cushioning in the midsole. The addition of this Air technology is really needed—while Cushlon might not be the springiest foam around, the Air system adds some bounce back.

Nike Winflo 10 Midsole softness
Test results
Winflo 10 16.1 HA
Average 23.5 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 246 running shoes
Number of shoes
6.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
52.5 HA

Difference in midsole softness in cold

To test how Cushlon reacts in chilly conditions, we put the shoe in the freezer for 20 minutes before taking our readings.

We noticed it became a bit more firm, registering at 25.6 HA.

This is a 59% hike, falling short when compared to the average. Sadly, this underwhelming performance in cold temperatures is typical for EVA-based midsoles like Cushlon.

If you're looking for a Nike trainer that can stand the cold, you'll need to shell out more money for an Invincible 3.

Nike Winflo 10 Midsole softness in cold
Test results
Winflo 10 59%
Average 25.9%
Compared to 245 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
125%

Stability

Lateral stability test

The Nike Winflo 10 is a neutral trainer, and it's not designed for those needing extra stability.

While it can manage mild pronators, we strongly recommend looking for a shoe offering more underfoot support in that case.

Torsional rigidity

In our torsional rigidity test, we gave it a score of 3/5. This result is quite typical for daily trainers.

Test results
Winflo 10 3
Average 3.2
Compared to 243 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

As a neutral shoe, Nike decided not to include a rigid heel counter to boost stability at the expense of comfort.

We noticed this when we discovered the heel area to be really flexible, giving it a 2/5 rating.

Test results
Winflo 10 2
Average 2.7
Compared to 227 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width in the forefoot

The trend of "average results" continues. We measured the Winflo 10 and found it has a typical midsole width of 112.5 mm.

This design seems to target neutral runners, emphasizing a lightweight and agile shoe.

Nike Winflo 10 Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Winflo 10 112.5 mm
Average 113.4 mm
Compared to 266 running shoes
Number of shoes
100.5 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
126.5 mm

Midsole width in the heel

Nevertheless, we were surprised to find the heel wider than anticipated at 92.5 mm.

As we mentioned earlier, this shoe is designed with beginners in mind, catering specifically to heel strikers.

Nike Winflo 10 Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Winflo 10 92.5 mm
Average 90.3 mm
Compared to 266 running shoes
Number of shoes
74.9 mm
Midsole width in the heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

Many runners regard the Winflo series as a versatile, all-around running shoe that can effortlessly transition into a comfortable walking or effective cross-training shoe.

For such adaptability, it requires flexibility. With a result of 21.7N in our 90-degree test, Nike delivered.

Test results
Winflo 10 21.7N
Average 29.1N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 248 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N

Difference in stiffness in cold

In cold conditions, the shoe isn't as flexible as we hoped. We discovered that after leaving it in the freezer for 20 minutes and then retesting in the lab, it measured 30.5N in the same 90-degree test.

That's a 40.6% increase, which aligns with our expectations for the Cushlon foam. As we mentioned earlier, EVA midsoles tend to underperform to cold temperatures.

Test results
Winflo 10 40.6%
Average 38.1%
Compared to 248 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in stiffness in cold
148%

Size and fit

Internal length

Upon trying on the Winflo 10, we felt it was either true to size or maaaybe slightly short. Naturally, this made us eager to measure it accurately.

Our measurement shows 267.5 mm, which is a mere 2.5 mm less than the 270 mm Nike provides in their official size charts.

Nike Winflo 10 Internal length
Test results
Winflo 10 267.5 mm
Average 268.9 mm
Compared to 129 running shoes
Number of shoes
259.9 mm
Internal length
277.4 mm

Toebox width at the widest part

While Nike is renowned for crafting narrow toeboxes, this time they've pleasantly surprised us.

We measured the Winflo 10 at a generously spacious 101.9 mm, which is impressively wide, especially for a Nike daily trainer.

Nike Winflo 10 Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Winflo 10 101.9 mm
Average 98.2 mm
Compared to 266 running shoes
Number of shoes
89.5 mm
Toebox width at the widest part
109.1 mm

Toebox width at the big toe

We measured the big toe area and found that it's quite typical, coming in at 77.7 mm. It's perhaps slightly larger than some shoes, but most won't notice.

Nike Winflo 10 Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Winflo 10 77.7 mm
Average 78.0 mm
Compared to 139 running shoes
Number of shoes
67.6 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
97.9 mm

Tongue: gusset type

Many brands often reserve the feature of a gusseted tongue for their pricier models, using it as a standout attribute.

However, in the 10th edition of the Winflo, Nike generously incorporated a snug, bootie-like gusseted tongue. This fantastic addition ensures a secure fit.

Nike Winflo 10 Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Winflo 10 Bootie

Comfort

Tongue padding

The tongue of a daily trainer is crucial, and the Winflo 10 doesn't disappoint. We measured its thickness at 9.3 mm, making it exceptionally padded.

Nike Winflo 10 tongue

Some might even feel that's too much!

Test results
Winflo 10 9.3 mm
Average 5.6 mm
Compared to 263 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Heel tab

The Winflo 10 doesn't have a heel tab, but we didn't miss it when putting on these shoes. Instead, it features Nike's Move to Zero logo.

Nike claims that 20% of this model is crafted using recycled materials. That's great, but we want more! 

Nike Winflo 10 Heel tab
Test results
Winflo 10 None

Removable insole

The shoe's insole can be taken out as it's not glued at all, allowing us to comfortably insert orthotics and third-party insoles.

Test results
Winflo 10 Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

Finding reflective elements on a Nike model is unusual, especially on a budget-friendly pair. At a $100 price point, we neither expected them.

Nike Winflo 10 Reflective elements
Test results
Winflo 10 No