Who should buy the Nike Free 5.0

With its cushy and flexible ride, the Nike Free 5.0 is made for: 

Nike Free 5.0 nike swoosh

Who should NOT buy it

Although energetic, the Free 5.0 from Nike is still not cut out for tempo runs. And if you're looking for stability running shoes, this is not it. 

Nike Free 5.0 vs. 4.0

The Nike Free 5.0 retains the sensation of natural movement from its predecessor, but offers the following updates:

  • a more flexible ride
  • the revamped midsole absorbs impact better
  • better traction and durability
  • more breathability

Nike Free 5.0 toe box

Follows the natural shape of the foot

The mesh upper is very stretchable; it mimics the shape of the foot, remarked multiple runners. It's also complemented by the overlays that keep the fit "snug" and "secure." 

Nike Free 5.0 engineered mesh

No more sweaty feet with the Nike Free 5.0

There are NO reports of hot and sweaty feet. This is thanks to the breathable mesh upper of the shoe and the sandwich mesh tongue that's soft and easy on the skin. 

Nike Free 5.0 tongue

Feel pampered from the first mile down to the last

"Comfortable." — This is how reviewers find the Nike Free 5.0. 

Nike Free 5.0 midsole

Its soft cushioning and flexible outsole work hand-in-hand that keep the runner's strides cozy and pleasant.

Time-tested strength

Long-term users of the Free 5.0 from Nike say that they barely put a scratch on the shoe.

Nike Free 5.0 outsole

The rubber coverage on the outsole only heightens the abrasion resistance of the shoe. Meanwhile, the upper overlays provide structure and reinforcement to the shoe, making it long-lasting. 

It won't weigh you down

At 8.3 oz (US M 9), the Nike Free is "suitably light," said many experts. It keeps bulk at an absolute minimum, you don't have to worry about foot drag. 

Nike Free 5.0 lacing system

The Nike Free 5.0 will make your strides come to life

"Responsive," "springy," "fun." 

This is how road runners find the shoe's Phylon foam. Apart from comfort, it inspires an energetic ride. 

Keepin' it natural

A lot of runners welcomed the flexible nature of the Nike Free shoes, which permitted them to move more naturally through the gait cycle.

A rounded heel encourages a more natural striking of the foot. It keeps the heel in place while also providing some cushioning to the sides.

Nike Free 5.0 rearfoot

The combined midsole and outsole design enables shock absorption to be highlighted to the wearer.

Hexagonal flex grooves are deeply cut into the sole unit. They offer six points of flexibility, letting the foot feel free when moving in every direction that it wants.

Nike Free 5.0 flex grooves

Relieves pain

Wearing this running shoe staved off any instances of a foot or muscle pain, reported a number of runners.

Nike Free 5.0 waffle pattern

Thanks to the outsole's rubber and Waffle Pattern, shock during impact is absorbed. 

Midsole is not built for the long haul

After some miles, testers have noticed the midsole bottoming out already. 

Nike Free 5.0 durability

Unnecessarily long laces

Because of their length, the laces flop around; they end up annoying.

Nike Free 5.0 lockdown system

Critics claim that they slip them in the collar to prevent this. However, it ends up being a bigger problem because it causes discomfort. 

Facts / Specs

Terrain: Road
Weight: Men 8.3oz / Women 6.8oz
Drop: 8mm
Arch support: Neutral
Forefoot height: 13mm
Heel height: 21mm
Collection: Nike Free

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