7 Best Nike Running Shoes For Women, 100+ Shoes Tested in 2023
Nike running shoes, in general, remain legends in the running world. Whether it's a daily trainer, tempo speedster, or race-day shoe, they’re all set for performance.
In this list, we’ve gathered the best of the best among the Nike running shoes for women. We’ve tested and selected top models from various categories to cater to all runners.
Table of contents How we test running shoesBest overallBest for raceBest for trailBest roadBest for speedworkBest valueMost popularComparison
Overview
How we test running shoes
We don’t randomly choose the women’s Nike running shoes that make the cut. We want a data-driven decision which is why we’ve invested in our independent RunRepeat shoe testing lab.
Each shoe on this list has been carefully examined, following these processes:
- Purchasing them with our own money
- Running in each model for at least 30-50 miles
- Cutting them to pieces
- Measure every part of the shoe in 30 different parameters
- Calculate their CoreScore via combination of expert and user reviews
Best Nike running shoes overall for women
Nike React Pegasus Trail 4
Running Warehouse
Free shipping & returns
$84
Nike
$89
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$95
Amazon
Free shipping
$100
CoreScore
- Top 20% in trail running shoes
- Top 21% in Nike running shoes
- Top 5% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Efficient road-to-trail
- Well-cushioned
- Stable ride
- Excellent, secure fit
- Very breathable
- Great traction
- Unexpectedly light
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Not for muddy areas
- Not for wide feet
- Could be more stylish
Verdict
The React Pegasus Trail 4 is one of the top road-to-trail options from Nike. Cushiony and responsive on the roads yet grippy and stable on the trails, the shoe makes a perfect hybrid. It also remains surprisingly light given all the features packed into it. Experienced runners are happy that it feels a lot like the original Pegasus Trail 36 but with an enhanced grip.
Best women's Nike running shoes for race
Nike Air Zoom Alphafly Next% 2
Running Warehouse
Free shipping & returns
$275
Nike
$275
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$275
Stadium Goods
$289
CoreScore
- Top 9% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Great for personal bests
- Propulsive ride
- Very comfortable
- Versatile for short and long runs
- Amazing lockdown
- Airy upper
- More stable than version 1
- Durable
- Quieter than before
Cons
- Expensive for sure
- Still slightly unstable on corners
- Hard to slip on
Verdict
The Nike Air Zoom Alphafly Next% 2 confirms all the qualities that made the first edition one of the best shoes (for some, the best ever) for racing half and full marathons. It’s still incredibly fast, cushioned and comfortable, plus it earned some stability and versatility. Overall, a fantastic performance-oriented choice. That is, if money is not an issue.
Best women's Nike running shoes for trail
Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GTX
Backcountry
Free shipping
$60
Amazon
Free shipping
$80
Nike
$105
Fleet Feet
Free shipping & returns
$120
CoreScore
- Top 11% in trail running shoes
- Top 6% in Nike running shoes
- Top 4% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Fantastic waterproofing
- Grips on everything dry and wet
- Great for road-to-trail transitions
- Also for hiking
- Responsive
- Stable on rocky terrain
- Supports moderately flat feet
- Straight-out-the-box comfort
- Lighter than other GTX shoes
- Locked-in heel
- Worth every penny
Cons
- Lacks durability
- Not for summer runs
Verdict
Whether raining or snowing, the Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GTX is a waterproof trail shoe that will keep your daily runs not only dry but also comfortable. On top of this, it's full of pop and support; it won't tire your feet out. And if you want a road-to-trail hybrid, the Pegasus Trail 3 GTX from Nike can do the job.
Best Nike road running shoes for women
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$59
Running Warehouse
Free shipping & returns
$96
Nike
$97
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$105
CoreScore
- Top 12% in road running shoes
- Top 10% in Nike running shoes
- Top 2% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Snappy toe-off
- Comfortable all-day
- Stable when legs are tired
- Smooth transitions
- Comfortable fit
- Roomy toe box
- Grippy on wet roads and light trails
- Also for walking and gym training
- Perfect for beginners
Cons
- Lacks responsiveness
- A tad heavy
- Too expensive
Verdict
The React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 from Nike is the brand's easy-day running shoe. With a generous cushion, it's comfortable to eat up lots of miles on the pavement. And if you're looking for a lockdown fit that will keep you stable from the first stride to last, this shoe won't disappoint. Overall, get the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 if you want a solid daily trainer that's perfect for newcomers and seasoned runners alike.
Best women's Nike running shoes for speedwork
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39
Running Warehouse
Free shipping & returns
$78
Amazon
Free shipping
$80
Nike
$82
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$98
CoreScore
- Top 16% in road running shoes
- Top 15% in Nike running shoes
- Top 2% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Lighter than the Peg 38
- More responsive
- Stable when cornering
- Snug and comfy fit
- Doesn't cause lace bites
- For easy & faster days
- Grippy on wet concrete and light trails
- Tank-like build
- Perfect for beginners
Cons
- Narrow toe box for wide feet
- Warm upper
- Not for recovery days
Verdict
The thirty-ninth version of the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus is a certified workhorse that's perfect for slow, long, and faster efforts. Not only this, but it's also a great choice for newbies who are aiming to hit their first 5K or a marathon. And for long-time runners, it's a trusty pick if you want a good ol' fashion ride that will keep you stable.
Best value
Nike Pegasus Trail 3
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$79
Fleet Feet
$98
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$100
Stadium Goods
$105
CoreScore
- Top 16% in trail running shoes
- Top 13% in Nike running shoes
- Top 4% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Soft, bouncy ride
- Very comfortable
- True to size
- Wide for a Nike
- Wide loop on heel
- Built to last
- Reflective swoosh
- Killer grip on dry trails
Cons
- Not grippy in wet
- Runs warm
Verdict
The Pegasus road series just holds a special place in many runners' hearts (feet?), and now it is ready for some trail action too. The Nike Pegasus Trail 3 has won many people over with its uber-plush landings as well as the cloud-like comfort and stability. As long as you stay away from slick surfaces, it is an excellent option.
Most popular Nike running shoes for women
CoreScore
- Top 2% most popular running shoes
Pros
- Fits true to size
- Peppy midsole
- Budget-friendly
- Good amount of flexibility
- Consistent performance in any condition
- Great as leisurewear
Cons
- Runs narrow
- Poor lacing
- Lacks grip
Verdict
The Nike Revolution 6 is a really popular running shoe that feels more and more like a sneaker the longer you wear it. With an exciting feeling midsole, the Revolution 6 is ready for some short, fun adventures, but may not be your best bet for serious running.
