Our verdict

The Nike Interact Run marks a milestone as the first sub-$100 Nike with a Flyknit upper, a feature once exclusive to premium models. We really liked how it combines lightness and comfort, making it an appealing option for casual runners who need versatility for both daily life and light running. However, in our lab tests, we found the outsole lacking in durability and the midsole subpar in terms of cushioning, which might disappoint some. Additionally, the design may be polarizing, as it looks as though two different shoes were fused together, each comprising half of the final product.

Pros

  • Ideal for hot climates
  • Perfect for everyday life
  • Exceptional comfort
  • Fantastic value
  • Great for beginners and heel strikers
  • Flyknit upper under $100!
  • Really lightweight
  • Upper durability

Cons

  • Not enough energy return
  • Outsole needs improvements
  • Only for short and easy runs

Audience verdict

90
Great!

Who should buy

After testing the Interact Run from top to bottom—both in the lab and on the road—we've discovered it's a perfect fit for those who:

  • Value a plush upper over all else—the Interact Run is the first Nike shoe priced under $100 to feature Flyknit, making it an exceptional deal.
  • Want a budget-friendly running shoe suitable for 2 or 3 casual runs per week that can also double as daily wear.
  • Are new to running and want a first shoe that offers high-quality materials without breaking the bank.

Nike Interact Run

Who should NOT buy

We think that the Interact Run's midsole is its Achilles' heel. While not disastrous, it lacks the cushioning and energy return some runners seek. For a similar price, better alternatives exist—such as the Saucony Axon 3 or the Brooks Revel 7

Furthermore, we do not recommend the Interact Run for runners with even mild stability needs. In our experience, shoes like the ASICS GT 1000 13 or the ASICS Gel Pulse 15 offer way more support at a competitive price, making them a wiser choice for those without a pristine neutral form.

Nike Interact Run parts

Breathability

Until now, acquiring a Flyknit shoe typically came with a high price tag. However, it seems Nike has now managed to produce this sought-after material affordably, bringing it mainstream with an $85 price tag that's really easy on any wallet.

Our tests with a smoke machine confirmed that the Interact Run excels in these areas, earning a perfect 5/5.

In our detailed examination, we found that Nike smartly designed the upper with two distinct sections—the rear is thicker to support heel strikers, while the midfoot and toebox boast incredible breathability, which we visually confirmed with our light.

Nike Interact Run mesh

Taking a look with our digital microscope, we discovered a dense mesh that feels plush yet doesn't compromise on air flow, thanks to well-placed ventilation holes.

Nike Interact Run knit

Considering its price, this upper is an absolute gem. The heel collar features luxurious padding, and the materials feel premium.

Test results
Interact Run 5
Average 3.8
Compared to 269 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Following our initial positive test with the Interact Run, we were eager to determine the quality of this Flyknit upper. Was it top-tier or had Nike developed a lower-quality version for this shoe? 

Creating an upper that's both breathable and durable is quite the achievement. Doing so in a sub-$100 shoe is genuinely impressive.

We put it to the test using our Dremel set to 3.2N of force and 5,000 RPM. Impressively, the Interact Run aced this tough challenge with a perfect 5-out-of-5 score.

Nike Interact Run Toebox durability test
Test results
Interact Run 5
Average 2.5
Compared to 203 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

To truly perfect the upper, it must also excel in terms of heel padding—a common weak spot in many shoes.

Using the Dremel under the same conditions, we achieved a score of 4 out of 5—this result is still significantly better than most running shoes, although it didn't quite reach perfection. Perhaps our expectations were a bit elevated after two back-to-back max scores!

Nike Interact Run Heel padding durability test
Test results
Interact Run 4
Average 3.3
Compared to 199 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

After being impressed with the first three tests, we shifted our focus to the outsole—an essential component for durability in a budget-friendly daily trainer.

Nike Interact Run outsole
Nike opted for a cost-saving approach with a basic waffle design featuring a large, central channel. This outsole definitely looks cheaper than the upper.

In our initial test, we pressed the Shore C durometer against the outsole and recorded an 89.8 HC score. This is notably high and suggests a design prioritizing durability. At the same time, we found that while the grip is satisfactory, it isn’t exceptional.

Nike Interact Run Outsole hardness
Test results
Interact Run 89.8 HC
Average 80.0 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 320 running shoes
Number of shoes
52.1 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

We doubled the speed of our Dremel for the third test, maintaining it for a lengthy 22 seconds, but the results were far from satisfactory, as the lug disappeared!

The outsole suffered 1.7 mm of damage, highlighting its lack of durability. Although the waffle, mini-lug design might account for some of the excessive wear—since less material contacts the sandpaper tip compared to a flat outsole—it's clear that the rubber used isn't particularly resilient.

In fact, other cheap Nike shoes with similar outsole designs like the Winflo 11 have shown much better durability in our lab tests.

Nike Interact Run Outsole durability lug
Test results
Interact Run 1.7 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 181 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

To conclude our examination of the outsole, we measured the thickness using our vernier calipers, which registered at 3.3 mm—a typical result that should suffice for most runners. However, those who tend to wear out outsoles quickly should not anticipate an extended lifespan from the Interact Run.

Nike Interact Run Outsole thickness
Test results
Interact Run 3.3 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 339 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm

Weight

We found that the Interact Run delivers a funny balance of highs and lows in our lab tests, with its weight being a significant highlight for us. 

Weighing in at just 8.5 oz or 241g, it stands out as a remarkably lightweight daily trainer, especially given its plush knit upper.

Nike Interact Run Weight
Test results
Interact Run 8.50 oz (241g)
Average 9.35 oz (265g)
Compared to 340 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.56 oz (356g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

Nike did a great job at reducing the weight of this shoe. However, there's a notable aspect to consider—at a heel stack height of 29.7 mm, it's considerably lower than most models we've tested, which typically feature more foam.

Nike Interact Run heel stack

As a result, we've found that this shoe is ideally suited for lighter runners or those who prefer a closer contact with the ground.

Nike Interact Run Heel stack
Test results
Interact Run 29.7 mm
Average 34.0 mm
Compared to 339 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

The forefoot experiences a similar situation. We measured a total of 20.4 mm in this area, suggesting that the shoe is better suited for heel strikers due to its design.

Nike Interact Run Forefoot stack
Test results
Interact Run 20.4 mm
Average 25.4 mm
Compared to 339 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

Given its entry-level price point, the 9.3 mm drop is primarily designed for beginners or casual runners, who often prefer a higher drop to complement their running form.

Does this mean advanced runners or those with midfoot and forefoot striking techniques should avoid it? Not at all—they can still benefit from this shoe, at the end of the day, it's still a sub-10-mm drop.

Nike Interact Run Drop
Test results
Interact Run 9.3 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 339 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Insole thickness

The insole was surprisingly thin at just 3.4 mm, which is notably slimmer than what we typically find in comparable shoes.

Nike Interact Run Insole thickness
Test results
Interact Run 3.4 mm
Average 4.5 mm
Compared to 335 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.

The midsole of the Interact Run isn't particularly plush, yet it avoids being overly firm. We measured its softness using a Shore A durometer, recording a value of 20.8 HA, which indicates a balanced feel.

During our test runs, we noted the moderate softness and low energy return, typical of the basic EVA foam (Phylon) used. For those seeking a more dynamic and responsive experience, we recommend getting the Pegasus 41, which provides a bouncier ride at a reasonable price.

Nike Interact Run Midsole softness
Test results
Interact Run 20.8 HA
Average 21.0 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 267 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
41.5 HA

Difference in midsole softness in cold

We were quite pleased with the performance of the injection-molded midsole in this test, as it showed a 25.3% variation after 20 minutes in the freezer—a remarkable result for an EVA foam.

Nike Interact Run Difference in midsole softness in cold temps
Test results
Interact Run 25.3%
Average 25.2%
Compared to 266 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
100%

Rocker

Throughout this review, we've highlighted that this shoe is particularly well-suited for heel strikers, a fact underscored by the significant heel flare in its design.

Nike Interact Run heel flare

We discovered that the heel facilitates a smooth roll-off due to its curvature, while the forefoot maintains a flat profile, offering a traditional ride. This setup works well as the shoe is flexible and doesn't have a high stack height.

Stability

Lateral stability test

The Interact Run's design and sidewalls naturally enhance stability, but we still think it's only a solid option for neutral runners. In fact, we firmly believe that those with slight pronation issues might find that a shoe specifically designed for stability would serve them better.

Torsional rigidity

The Interact Run features a chassis that is not overly rigid, which significantly improves its usability for everyday life. However, despite its stack height, it wasn't as flexible as we anticipated.

We gave it a 3 out of 5 rating, which places it right around the average mark for flexibility.

Test results
Interact Run 3
Average 3.3
Compared to 318 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

Nike opted not to include an external heel counter in this model, instead incorporating a small cardboard piece within the heel to add some structure. This approach, earning a 3 out of 5 score, is typical for daily trainers and provides a reliable way to ensure comfort with just enough support.

Test results
Interact Run 3
Average 2.8
Compared to 302 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width in the forefoot

After checking with our calipers, we encountered a fairly standard shoe with no unusual dimensions to report.

With a forefoot width of 115.3 mm, the shoe offers ample space yet maintains a streamlined, non-clunky look.

Nike Interact Run Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Interact Run 115.3 mm
Average 114.0 mm
Compared to 340 running shoes
Number of shoes
100.5 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
127.9 mm

Midsole width in the heel

Our measurements of the heel area showed a width of 91.5 mm, which aligns well with the average. This width provides a stable landing platform, though as we said before, it's ideally suited for neutral runners.

Nike Interact Run Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Interact Run 91.5 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 340 running shoes
Number of shoes
74.9 mm
Midsole width in the heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

Any running shoe designed for everyday comfort, such as walking the dog or running errands, should perform effortlessly in our 90-degree bend test.

Nike Interact Run flex

The Interact Run only required 14.4N of force to bend, indicating superb flexibility, though not quite reaching the crazy level of barefoot-feel shoes like the Nike Free RN NN.

Test results
Interact Run 14.4N
Average 28.8N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 322 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N

Difference in stiffness in cold

We conducted another cold-temperature test by placing the shoe in the freezer for 20 minutes and then assessing its flexibility. The result required 19.4N, marking a 34.8% increase in stiffness. This performance is quite decent for an EVA midsole.

Test results
Interact Run 34.8%
Average 34.6%
Compared to 322 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in stiffness in cold
148%

Size and fit

Toebox width at the widest part

At 98.8 mm across the widest part of the upper, the Interact Run offers a pretty normal fit that comfortably accommodates those with average-sized feet.

Nike Interact Run pov

However, individuals with very wide feet might find it limiting, as Nike only offers the Interact Run in standard D widths for men and B for women, without options for 2E or 4E widths. This lack of wider sizes is somewhat unusual for a budget-friendly shoe.

Nike Interact Run Toebox width at the widest part upper
Test results
Interact Run 98.8 mm
Average 98.4 mm
Compared to 340 running shoes
Number of shoes
89.5 mm
Toebox width at the widest part
109.1 mm

Toebox width at the big toe

The upper sports a classic Nike shape with a tapered toebox, but the taper is relatively mild, as confirmed by our measurement of 77.7 mm.

We found the volume somewhat low, but given Flyknit's stretchy nature, we don't anticipate it being a major issue.

We found it aligns closely with the average, yet runners with square-shaped feet might find it slightly restrictive. For those with broader feet, the Pureboost 23 from Adidas might offer a more comfortable fit.

Nike Interact Run Toebox width at the big toe upper
Test results
Interact Run 77.7 mm
Average 78.3 mm
Compared to 214 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.4 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
92.5 mm

Tongue: gusset type

Considering the shoe's reasonable price, it didn't come as a brutal shock to us that Nike chose not to include a tongue that's fixed to the sides of the upper.

Nike Interact Run Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Interact Run None

Comfort

Tongue padding

We discovered that the tongue of the Interact Run boasts 9.0 mm of padding, crafted from two layers of foam. It's undoubtedly one of the plushest tongues we've tested in budget-friendly shoes, delivering exceptional comfort.

Nike Interact Run tongue loop
The tongue includes multiple loops that might seem insignificant but are crucial since the tongue is not gusseted. They really help to keep it in place.

However, we found the lack of an extra eyelet on top to be a disappointing omission, even for an entry-level shoe.

Nike Interact Run Tongue padding
Test results
Interact Run 9.0 mm
Average 5.7 mm
Compared to 337 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Heel tab

The Interact Run features a finger-loop heel tab—a detail typically found in pricier shoes. However, during our testing, we discovered that it's not the best design, as it's too wide, making it somewhat difficult to slip a finger inside. However, we must admit that it looks cool!

Nike Interact Run Heel tab
Test results
Interact Run Finger loop

Removable insole

Removing the insole of the Interact Run presents no issues, and we even think that swapping it for a higher-quality footbed can be a good move, as the original insole is quite basic and inexpensive. If you have, for instance, an Ortholite insole from another shoe, it might be worth trying it out!

Nike Interact Run Removable insole
Test results
Interact Run Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

As we already told you, the Interact Run features a surprisingly high-quality Flyknit upper at an affordable price. However, we discovered that it misses reflective elements!

Nike Interact Run Reflective elements
Test results
Interact Run No