Verdict from 9.1 hours of research from the internet

7 reasons to buy

  • A few runners said that the Nike Free RN 5.0 Shield is lightweight.
  • This shoe offers excellent support, based on some reviews.
  • It is comfortable, according to a lot of commenters.
  • People appreciated its water-resistant feature.
  • A purchaser mentioned that it is comfortable even without socks.
  • The shoe fits well, most users claimed.
  • Users also love using this shoe for work and gym sessions.

2 reasons not to buy

  • A few wearers noted that the shoe is a bit narrow.
  • The outsole is not durable enough for long runs, said a tester.

Bottom line

The Nike Free RN 5.0 Shield is a comfortable running shoe designed for users with neutral foot motion. The shoe’s weatherized design allows its wearer to continue running or doing their usual exercise routines rain or shine. This stylish running shoe is also suitable for gym sessions and casual walks.

Tip: see the best running shoes.

User reviews:

  • The Nike Free RN 5.0 Shield is a neutral running shoe that offers enhanced foot motion and minimal stability features. It is designed for runs up to 3 miles. It features a modified midsole foam and an updated flex groove pattern that offers more flexibility compared to its predecessor. 
  • The upper unit of the shoe has a weatherized design that allows the runner to continue even during rainy days. Reflective elements are also incorporated in the upper to help the runner stand out from the crowd and provide additional protection during night runs. 
  • The Nike Free sole is integrated into the shoe to provide a good amount of traction in both wet and dry conditions. The outsole is designed with channels that effectively shed water.

The Free RN 5.0 Shield utilizes the bootie construction for a snug and seamless fit. It also uses a removable insole and the asymmetrical lacing system so the runner can customize and adjust the comfort level of the shoe. 

This water-resistant running shoe is manufactured using the standard measurement to accommodate the usual choice of consumers when it comes to size. However, it is recommended for consumers to try on the shoe fist or utilize the general feedback to have a picture of what to expect when it comes to size options. This Nike Running shoe is also available in numerous colors and sizes for both men and women versions.  

In the outsole of the shoe is the Nike Free technology that offers a barefoot-like feel. The Nike Free outsole is shaped to the anatomy of the foot to provide a more comfortable fit. The outsole has laser-siped flex grooves that are designed to release stiffness in the foam while the user is running, allowing the material to bend and flex naturally with the foot. 

The outsole and midsole units of this running companion are working together to provide a soft and responsive ride. Additionally, reliable protection is offered against the unpredictable ground and adverse weather conditions.

The Nike Free RN 5.0 Shield is constructed using a low-density foam. The modified midsole allows the user to feel connected to the ground. The midsole material is also designed to conform to the shape of the foot to provide a high level of comfort by reducing shock. 

Dual siping has been utilized on the top of the midsole to deliver multi-directional flex. This component improves the shoe’s flexibility by 26% more compared to its previous version, the Nike Free RN 5.0. 

This road running shoe has a removable cushioned insole that allows for custom orthotics. This material provides additional comfort and protection to the foot. 

The Nike Free RN 5.0 Shield features a water-resistant upper that has been constructed using the Nike shield technology. This component is tasked to keep the foot dry and comfortable even in wet conditions. The adaptive mesh upper conforms naturally around the foot and is designed to provide a fit like a second skin. 

The bootie construction offers a snug and seamless fit, allowing the foot to slip in and out of the shoe with ease. The upper also provides constant ventilation, permitting the airflow to create a better and healthier environment for the foot. 

Like the Adidas Solar Drive and Asics Gel Cumulus 21, this running shoe also uses reflective detailings to enhance its visibility during low-light conditions. The feature keeps the user safe and seen when running by the roads. 

This lightweight running shoe utilizes the asymmetrical lacing system. The placement of the lace on the sides of the shoe helps relieve the pressure in every stride. 

Size and fit

True to size based on 6 user votes
Small (0%)
True to size (67%)
Large (33%)
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Same sizing as Nike Free RN 2018 Shield.

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How Free RN 5.0 Shield compares

This shoe: 80
All shoes average: 86
53 98
This shoe: $110
All shoes average: $119
$40 $350
This shoe: 6mm
All shoes average: 8mm
0mm 11mm+
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.

jens@runrepeat.com