7 Best Nike Trainers in 2024
Looking for the best Nike trainers can be downright gruelling given the number of options. Well, fret not because we’re here to back you up.
Whether you’re on the lookout for the cheapest Nike finds, the most iconic, or the best one of them all, we’ve got it all here.
Of course, we have thoroughly tested each one of them, before we highlighted these top picks. This way, our recommendations are based on countless hours of testing - both in the streets and in our lab!
How we test trainers
Nike is among the global brands known for their dope marketing campaigns, but who cares about that? What we give you here is a list of top-rated Nike kicks based on our unbiased reviews as experts on the field:
- We purchase all the Nike trainers by swiping our own cards. We do not take part in partnerships and X-deals just to promote a pair of shoes. We value honesty more than free stuff.
- We made sure that our top picks are backed up by actual reviews and wear tests, so we wear each Nike trainers both indoors and outdoors. We executed different tasks and errands while in them and we assessed its comfort, durability, and looks, among other features.
- To make our reviews more comprehensive, we went the extra mile by dissecting the shoes into pieces and measuring over 30 parameters. We do all of this in our lab.
Best Nike trainers overall
What makes it the best?
Pros
- Lightweight
- Instantly comfortable
- True to size
- Durable
- Can be worn without socks
- Flexible
- Super breathable
- Sleek modern looks
- Crazy number of colorways
Cons
- Heel height might need adjusting to
- Not the best for standing all day
Nike trainers with the best cushioning
What makes it the best?
When it came to cushioning, no other Nike sneaker came close to the Air Max 97. Its midsole was not only thicker, it was softer than most, as well. Aside from letting us enjoy the best cushioning a Nike sneaker could offer, this shoe also delivered a pretty impressive durability and a whole lot of comfort.
We subjected this shoe, particularly its upper, to all sorts of abuse that a sneaker would have to go through. We were amazed at how this show was able to hold its own. It was even pretty effective in keeping water out, making it such a good pick for all-weather use.
Despite its tough exterior, the inside of the shoe offered a lovely level of pampering. We could even wear this shoe without socks! Truly, this shoe was a big help when we were in a hurry to go out.
Though this shoe got the looks, the material that the upper was made off was pretty absorbent. Hence, stains had the tendency to stick stubbornly to it. If you are someone who tends to get their shoes dirty quite easily, it’s better to avoid this shoe…or at least its white iterations.
Pros
- Good all-season sneaker
- Good for sockless wear
- An identifiable piece of fashion history
- Fits true to size
- Near indestructible
- Lightweight
- Feels as athletic as it looks
- Great even for winter
Cons
- Takes some time to wear in
- Attaches to stains easily
Best classic Nike trainers
What makes it the best?
The Air Max 90 is our pick as the best classic Nike sneaker because of its timeless silhouette that is built like a tank. After extensive testing and research, we found out that the sneaker's durability is accompanied by a versatility that allows it to be worn by anyone, any time of the year.
Available in more than 200 colorways, the AM90 is a lifestyle sneaker that we can pair with almost everything. The athletic kick is characterized by the ventilation holes on the forefoot, which are reminiscent of 90s models. Interestingly, during our 4-day test walk, we found that the perforations are not just for decorative purposes. The holes actually allow for a good amount of airflow, which helps keep our feet fresh throughout.
We also put the legendary sneakers to the test to see if they are as tough as they look. By scuffing the leather with a metallic brush attached to a power drill, we discovered that the sneaker held up pretty great after sustaining only a minimal amount of thrashing. The distressed look, in our opinion, actually amplifies the retro-rugged aesthetic, making it even more rad.
But we also found the Air Max 90 to be narrow-fitting. Our feet felt the added pressure, especially around the toebox which is why we advise sneakerheads shopping for wider-fitting kicks to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Very durable
- Breathable
- The stuff of legends and rightly so
- Huge amounts of colorways
- Great price for a statement shoe
- Fits true to size
- Quality materials
- Easy to clean
- Stain resistant
Cons
- So stiff it asks for an adjustment period
- Normal and wide feet find it too narrow
Best basketball-inspired Nike trainers
What makes it the best?
Pros
- Retro basketball aesthetics
- Real leather (suede) upper
- Excellent durability for the price
- Low and grounded platform (loved by skaters)
- Very stable and supportive
- Surprisingly flexible in the forefoot
- True to size and fit
- Extra eyelets
Cons
- Needs breaking in
- Firm and rigid sole
- Not for all-day wear
Best mid top Nike trainers
What makes it the best?
The Air Trainer 3 delivered all that a mid-top Nike sneaker should, and with flying colors at that. First of all, it was laterally stable. No amount of side-to-side aggression could send our feet flying off the footbed. Then it had its very durable construction. Finally, this shoe surprisingly delivered amazing ventilation. The best Nike mid-top sneaker, indeed!
This Nike sneaker remained true to its past in terms of looks and even structure. It was very effective in keeping our feet down even during our most aggressive strides.
Speaking of aggression, we did all the abuse that we could think of in the lab. Impressively, this shoe did not even show signs of slight wear and tear. This is truly among the most durable sneakers we’ve ever tested!
Because of its supportive stiffness and sturdy makeup, this shoe surely sounded like it’s going to be a (literally) hot one. Fortunately, it was not. The shoe had ventilation holes all over the upper that did what it had to do! We felt airy and comfortable all throughout our wear-tests.
Too bad the Nike Air Trainer 3 was not available in a lot of colorways. We were forced to choose between the meager options that we had, and that sure proved to be frustrating.
Pros
- Fits true to size
- Durable leather construction
- Retro styling
- Surprisingly breathable
- Could make a winter sneaker
Cons
- Limited colorways
- Not very flexible
- Has hotspots where the shoe rubs on the toe
Nike trainers with the best comfort
What makes it the best?
The comfort that we felt while wearing the Nike Air Max 95 was topnotch. Aside from being made of textile and leather that was soft and shape-conforming, it had laces that enhanced the sneaker’s fit and made us feel secure. We also loved the fact that this shoe was pretty easy to clean. Among all Nike sneakers, this one had to be the best as far as comfort went.
The materials that made up the upper looked stiff and unrelenting. But after a period of time, they all felt soft and were finally able to conform to the shape of our feet, affording us a lot of comfort.
We also had the laces to thank for the Nike Air Max 95’s amazing fit and clasp around our feet. They were easy to tie and had enough friction to maintain a knot even during the most aggressive movements.
In the lab, we put dirt, chalk, and some dyes on the textile upper. Of course, these things defaced the shoe. Fortunately, they were easy to remove after just a single wash. If you envision yourself strolling in not so pristine places, then the Nike Air Max 95 might be the most suitable companion.
We have to admit, though, that this Nike Air Max sneaker was a bit on the heavier side. It was quite bulky, too. This Nike sneaker indeed needed some getting used to.
Pros
- Part of Nike Street Style Heritage
- Super durable construction
- Speed lace loops offer great fit and comfort
- Easy to clean
- Recycled materials used
- Best for colder seasons
- Great lacing for a secure fit
Cons
- A bit heavy
- Takes time to wear in
Best budget Nike trainers
What makes it the best?
The Nike Air Max Excee was cheaper than any other from the Air Max line. It debuted at the £100 price point, which was already cheap considering the £120 average. More than its price, the shoe’s attractive appearance and the wide array of colorways that it was available in made it such an impressive, the best even, budget sneaker in Nike’s lineup.
If the Excee already looked great in photos, wait until you see it in person. The vibrancy of the colors was just immaculate and enticing and scene-stealing. We loved the approving looks that we got when we walked around wearing this Nike sneaker.
Aside from its great looks, we also appreciated the fact that it was available in many iterations. There was practically a colorway for every personality that we wanted to portray or represent through our outfits. The Nike Air Max Excee was truly a fashionista’s best friend.
Too bad that the price reduction came with unfortunate drawbacks in shoe quality. This Nike sneaker simply was not the most durable shoe out there. It easily fell apart during our lab tests.
Pros
- Fits true to size
- Perfect for sporty outfits
- Insanely comfortable
- Cheaper than many Air Max
- Colours IRL are even better than the ones on the screen
- Wide choice of colorways
Cons
- Stiff
- There's very little airflow
- Poor durability
Welcome to a journey into the world of Nike trainers. A place where style, innovation, and athletic performance collide.
Whether you're drawn to the simplicity of minimalism or the bold statements of maximalism, when it comes to the best that Nike trainers have to offer, we've got you covered. So, fasten your seatbelts as we embark on a journey into the heart of RunRepeat’s Nike sneaker universe.
Jordan-free zone
It’s worth pointing out that in this article we'll be diving into the world of Nike trainers, and only Nike trainers. And because it’s going to be all about the Nike brand, we’ll be excluding Jordans from this one because, although they may belong under the Nike umbrella, Nike and Jordan are two separate entities so we’ll give them each the respect they deserve.
The biggest player in the game
Nike is the number one brand of trainers in the world, capturing over £60 billion in annual total sales
. With sales continuing to soar, there’s no question that for consumers looking for the best trainers to wear, Nike is the market leader.
They’re SNKRS… IYKYK
Nike compliments their footwear offerings with a lot of in-store or virtual technology. Recently Nike has been launching new releases under their SNKR platform, designed specifically for the up-and-coming sneakerhead generation who just can’t wait to find out what’s coming next. Because IYKYK (‘if you know, you know’).
From the goddess of victory to the goddess of variety
In Greek mythology, the name ‘Nike’ references a goddess who personifies victory. With Nike’s trainers, you can step into the world of triumph and conquer the streets, tracks, or any terrain you encounter.
Just like the goddess herself, Nike's commitment to excellence and success is ingrained in every pair of trainers they create. Whether you're an athlete aiming for the podium or a fashion enthusiast seeking the pinnacle of style, Nike more than likely has something for you.
Nike tech that just gets it done
If you look at some of the latest offerings in the Nike sneaker catalogue it makes you think that the Nike Marketing department must have an ongoing stoush with their Research and Development colleagues.
You see, the marketing team loves the catchphrase ‘just do it’ and that familiar trademark is regularly seen in Nike’s print advertising and t-shirts globally. It’s a great slogan. But the R&D team seems to take it to the next step, and ‘just did it’ seems to be their motto. From Nike Air to Flyknit, here’s a sample of what they’ve launched so far:
Nike Air
We’ve all seen and heard of Nike Air, but what actually is it? Nike Air technology consists of pressurised air inside a tough yet flexible bag and provides more flexibility and spring without compromising structure. The Air-Sole units maintain their given form with elasticity, reduce impact, and keep the shoe snug and lightweight. Air is found on many of today’s Nike trainers.
Air Max
Nike's Air Max technology is one of the brand's most renowned midsole innovations, which is found in many of their premier sneaker models. Max is all things comfort and style. A larger air-filled unit than standard Air, the Max Air cushions every step to keep you moving easily through all your daily activities. Although now more than 30 years since its first release, it's managed to become a style icon along the way.
Nike Air Max features:
- Exceptional energy absorption: Air Max units excel at cushioning impacts, swiftly reverting to their original shape to provide a responsive and comfortable ride.
- Featherweight construction: These air-infused midsoles keep trainers lightweight, ensuring that every stride is energy-efficient and effortless.
- Eco-friendly commitment: Nike's dedication to sustainability shines through in Air Max technology. All Air soles incorporate a minimum of 50% recycled materials and are produced using 100% renewable energy sources, contributing to a greener future.
- All day comfort and stability: Whether you're tackling the track or getting through your daily grind, Air Max trainers prioritise comfort and stability, making them an ideal choice for everyday wear.
Zoom (and Zoom Air)
Designed for sports requiring fast foot movements such as running and basketball, Nike’s Air Zoom technology consists of a small, low-profile Air unit with strong, tensile threads inside. These spring-like threads contract and pop up instantly, giving the sensation of jumping off a trampoline.
Nike Zoom Air trainers are made to deliver lightning-fast responsiveness and are therefore best suited for explosive starts in running, mitigate pronation for enhanced stability, provide a heightened sense of the ground and superior control for field sports enthusiasts, and facilitate quick, agile cuts on the basketball court.
Nike Zoom features:
- High energy absorption: Absorbs impact and quickly springs back to return to its original shape.
- Enhanced energy return – The addition of tightly stretched tensile fibre within the Air unit boosts responsiveness.
- Supports aggressive movements and sports: Requires strong impact to compress, making it a stable midsole.
Flyknit
Nike’s development of Flyknit was an innovation aimed at making trainers more lightweight. Manufactured from robust yet lightweight threads, Flyknit weaves a one-piece upper that fits like and somewhat looks like a sock.
Nike Flyknit trainers are best for sporty people and athletic enthusiasts seeking lightweight, breathable, and custom-fit footwear solutions that excel in agility, comfort, and style.
Nike Flyknit features:
- Incredibly lightweight: Flyknit's single-layer knit construction ensures a lightweight shoe, perfect for agile movement.
- Breathability: Thanks to its absence of overlays and porous design, Flyknit promotes excellent airflow, keeping your feet comfortably cool.
- Individualised support: The varied weaving patterns offer adaptable lockdown at different sections of the upper, providing tailored support where it's needed most.
- Eco-friendly production: Flyknit is not only a technological marvel but also an eco-conscious choice, generating 60% less waste compared to traditional cut-and-sew manufacturing methods.
Air Force
The Air Force is a now iconic collection of Nike trainers that began with the Air Force 1 model way back in 1982. Air Force trainers are offered in low-, mid- and high-top styles. Originally designed as a basketball shoe, it has now transformed into a street sneaker for everyone.
Nike Air Force features:
- Vast options: Nike Air Force trainers offer an extensive array of styles designed to cater to diverse tastes. The iconic high-top silhouette, known for its basketball heritage, remains a perennial favourite. It's the go-to choice for those who crave the classic looks and performance.
- Versatility done well: For a more relaxed and versatile appearance, Nike provides low and mid-top variations of Air Force trainers. These options effortlessly complement everyday attire and can be effortlessly tailored to any setting or occasion.
- She’s got the look: In terms of aesthetics, Air Force shoes are offered in a wide range of colours, ensuring you can discover the perfect pair to match your unique style.
- Moving forward: In recent years, Nike has unveiled a series of exclusive Air Force trainers, a treasure trove for collectors and sneaker enthusiasts. These limited-edition releases boast distinctive colour schemes and design intricacies that set them apart from standard models. Collaborations with renowned designers and pop-culture influencers have also resulted in some very cool one-of-a-kind Air Force trainers.
When minimalism competes with maximalism
In the world of Nike trainers, design aesthetics can be broadly categorised into two distinct styles: minimalist and maximalist. These design philosophies represent opposite ends of the creative spectrum, each with its unique characteristics and appeal.
Minimalism keeps it simple and elegant
Simple, classy, and elegant: minimalist trainers are classic designs which are proven to last the test of time. Minimalist Nike trainers tend to focus on the fundamental design principles of simplicity and functionality, which means unnecessary elements are eliminated. The result? Trainers which are perfectly suited to a variety of settings which will work with many different outfits. Here’s what make Nike minimalist trainers great:
- Clean and uncomplicated designs: With typically streamlined shapes with fewer overlays, decorative features, or excessive stitching.
- Minimal branding: Logos and labels are discreetly incorporated into the sneaker design to maintain a sleek and understated appearance.
- Basic colours: Simple colour choices from a limited colour palette means minimalist trainers are easy to pair with various outfits.
- Functional performers: Minimalism in Nike design doesn't sacrifice functionality. Instead, it simplifies without compromising performance. The focus is on essential features that enhance comfort, support, and performance, such as well-engineered cushioning and outsole traction.
- Subtle elegance: Subtle, purposeful details such as strategically placed fabrics for breathability, refined stitching, or hidden lacing systems that maintain the shoe's clean lines are clever ways Nike has managed to keep their minimalist trainers looking great.
Maximalism goes big and bold
If minimalism is retro chic, then at the opposite end of the spectrum are the modern-day big and bold protagonists.
Because if you want to make your presence felt, some Nike maximalism trainers will have that immediate effect, and here’s why:
- Real eye-grabbers: Maximalist Nike trainers have vibrant and complex colour schemes. These trainers often feature a multitude of colours, patterns, and gradients, creating eye-catching and attention-grabbing visuals.
- Over-the-top design: When you want your trainers to stand out from the pack design elements such as oversized icons, embroidered Swoosh logos and colourful patterns that cover large parts of the sneaker. These details might be a bit over-the-top for some, but it does make your trainers stand out and become a fashion statement in their own right.
- Multiple materials: Combining and layering multiple materials into the one sneaker can create an impressive and unique aesthetic, one that other trainers can’t easily replicate.
- Chunky soles: Oversized soles not only provide extra cushioning and support but also contribute to the shoe's distinctive look.
- Bold branding: Unlike minimalism, where branding is understated, maximalist Nike trainers proudly display prominent logos and branding elements. These logos can be oversized and placed prominently on the shoe's upper or sole. You’ll know they’re Nike.
- Insta influence: It wasn’t so long ago that fashion-forward products would rely on sports people to help sell. These days Instagram influencers have taken over, as Nike streetwear trainers has become a niche of its own.
- Big time collaborations: Nike frequently releases limited-edition and collaborative trainers that might become collectors items some day. These special releases often feature unique design elements and capture the spirit of pop culture, music, art, or other creative influences.
A peek into the Nike crystal ball
So what’s coming for the Nike brand in the future? Well, the truth is there are glimpses of what the future holds already. From customization and individualization, we can expect to see Nike continue to push the boundaries, which is great news for sneakerheads.
As for the iconic minimalist designs we see today? Aside from the occasional refreshment and modernisation, they’re likely to remain relatively untouched.
Expect the big and bold designs of today to be bigger and bolder tomorrow.
Big Nike tech coming soon
As for technology, Nike has toyed with integrating smart systems into their trainers but so far none of the ideas have lasted the test of time… yet. Behind the scenes you can be sure they’re working on some sort of smart technology now, that we will all be wearing years later.
It’s easy to envisage something that integrates with your cell phone and smartwatch via either bluetooth or ANT+, and maybe even uses AI to make your day easier. We don’t know for sure, but it is fun to imagine and even more fun to see things come true. Watch this space.
Frequently asked questions
Where are Nike shoes made?
Nike utilises a manufacturing technique known as ‘contract manufacturing’ which means that rather than Nike owning and operating all of their factories, instead they contract production out to specialised factories who tender for their bid. Most factories are located in Asian countries such as Vietnam and China.
How do I pronounce ‘Nike’?
The correct way to say it is ‘Nai-kee’ (rhymes with ‘spikey’). If you’ve got friends that insist on saying it as if it rhymes with ‘Mike’, maybe they’d appreciate Adidas more.
How does Nike sneaker sizing work?
Nike trainers run true-to-size and we have a dedicated area for Nike sizing - check it out here.
References
- Statista: (Consumer Goods & FMCG - Apparel & Shoes) Nike's global revenue 2005-2023
- Statista: (Sports & Recreation - Sports & Fitness) Footwear segment revenue of Nike, adidas & Puma 2010-2022
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