Our verdict

The Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX isn't just a waterproof twist on the regular Pegasus Trail. By incorporating a revamped outsole and a highly protective new upper, it has morphed into a superior shoe overall at the cost of an extra £30. We were really impressed by its surprisingly light weight despite the Gore-Tex membrane. Plus, the bouncy and comfortable React midsole is ideal for short and medium distances, making it an all-around superb performer in our tests. However, we think it does come with a few caveats, like a significant 12.8-mm heel-to-toe drop and the absence of a gusseted tongue.

Pros

  • Versatile road-to-trail performance
  • Grippier than the standard version
  • Surprisingly light for a GTX shoe
  • Accommodates wide feet with ease
  • Delivers a really stable ride for neutral runners
  • Upper showcases remarkable durability
  • Fantastic option for heel strikers

Cons

  • Non-gusseted tongue allows water and debris to enter the shoe
  • Not suitable for technical terrain
  • Excessive drop for midfoot or forefoot strikers

Audience verdict

85
Good!

Who should buy

We believe the GTX version of the Pegasus Trail 4 is an excellent choice for:

  • Just about anyone looking for a light, waterproof running shoe that can handle easy-to-moderate trails with ease.
  • Fans of the Pegasus Trail series who desire a GTX version for rainy days or winter training sessions.
  • Heel strikers seeking a versatile, road-to-trail shoe that's equipped with Gore-Tex technology for all-weather performance.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX

Who should NOT buy

The Pegasus Trail 4 GTX is a great trail shoe, yet our belief is that it's not the best fit for challenging or technical terrains. It's just more suited for less demanding scenarios. For tackling tougher trails and wild adventures, consider the Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX instead.

Also, it's not our top pick for primarily road running, especially if you're a midfoot or forefoot striker. The Hoka Clifton 9 GTX, while capable on easy trails, performs better on asphalt.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX parts

Breathability

In our lab tests with Gore-Tex shoes, we usually expect a low breathability score—typically a 1 out of 5. However, the Pegasus Trail 4 GTX surprised us with a slightly better score of 2 out of 5. This is probably fine for trail running as long as you avoid the hottest days of the year.

The minimal breathability is mainly through the tongue, as the Gore-Tex upper almost completely blocks airflow, even though it's supposed to let some air in.

To confirm this, we shone our powerful light directly into the cut-in-half upper. As we anticipated, no light penetrated through.

Still wanting more evidence, we turned to our microscope.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX microscope

There, we discovered a thick mesh that confirmed the lack of airflow throughout the entire upper, except for the upper parts of the tongue. Everything is sealed.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX

Lastly, we manually assessed the upper and found it super dense, with almost no stretch potential. But it also appeared really sturdy, which made us eager to test its durability in the lab.

Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 2
Average 3.3
Compared to 64 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Nike has included several TPU protective overlays in the upper to enhance protection and prevent damage, yet we tested it by applying the Dremel directly on the engineered mesh.

The Peg Trail 4 GTX scored an impressive 4 out of 5, a remarkable outcome few shoes achieve in this rigorous test.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Toebox durability
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 4
Average 2.9
Compared to 44 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

Next, we again used the Dremel, but this time to test the heel area of the shoe.

There, we noticed slightly less padding than what's typical in training shoes, a factor that we believe contributed to the fantastic 5 out of 5 score this variant of the Pegasus Trail 4 achieved.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Heel padding durability
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 5
Average 2.7
Compared to 42 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

Moving to the outsole, the Pegasus saga—like with the regular Pegasus 40—has always prioritized durability over grip.

With our 89.0-HC measurement from our durometer, it seems Nike is continuing on the same path.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Outsole hardness
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 89.0 HC
Average 85.1 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
72.5 HC
Outsole hardness
95.0 HC

Outsole durability

Given the hard rubber it packs, we had high expectations for our last Dremel test in the lab, this time with a new formula designed for wet or loose surfaces.

We must say, Nike really delivered this time, shaking off their reputation for crafting subpar outsoles for rainy days. This one is grippier than ever.

Moreover, it proved to be durable. We only found a 0.8-mm indentation in the rubber, which is a great result in this evaluation.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Outsole durability
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 0.8 mm
Average 0.9 mm
Compared to 37 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

The outsole might look thin at just 1.0 mm, but it's not a worry for us.

The lugs contribute a substantial amount of rubber and offer average durability, as we've demonstrated before. So, the blend of the outsole and the lugs will definitely provide more than enough durability across all terrains, including roads.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Outsole thickness
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 1.0 mm
Average 2.5 mm
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.5 mm

Weight

Weighing in at just 9.6 oz (271g), we're absolutely amazed at how Nike managed to deliver a Gore-Tex shoe that weighs the same as the regular version. In our lab experience, most shoes gain between 0.5 to 1 ounce with the addition of the GTX membrane, so this was a delightful surprise.

And the shoe indeed feels incredibly light, staying under the 10-oz benchmark. It's not just suitable for slow efforts but also performs brilliantly at faster paces.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Weight
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 9.56 oz (271g)
Average 10.37 oz (294g)
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
7.51 oz (213g)
Weight
13.37 oz (379g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

And no, the weight savings don't come from skimping on the React midsole. In fact, at 37.7 mm, there are few trail running shoes more generously stacked than the Peg Trail 4 GTX.

This ensures ample cushioning for long runs if needed, even for the heaviest heel strikers out there.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Heel stack
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 37.7 mm
Average 32.2 mm
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
16.1 mm
Heel stack
40.4 mm

Forefoot stack

In contrast, the forefoot is average at 24.9 mm, which we anticipated in the lab because the Pegasus line has always featured a high drop. Let's take a closer look at that.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Forefoot stack
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 24.9 mm
Average 24.3 mm
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
15.2 mm
Forefoot stack
33.8 mm

Drop

Here it is. With a 12.8-mm drop, this shoe is a delight for those who thrive in high-drop shoes, like extreme heel strikers or those needing to ease the strain on their calves and Achilles in every run.

However, it's not the best trail shoe for forefoot or midfoot strikers. You won't benefit from the shoe's wedge-shaped geometry, and you'll likely struggle on technical terrain. If you fall into that category, you're better off with a shoe with a lower offset, like the Hoka Speedgoat 5 GTX.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Drop
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 12.8 mm
Average 8.1 mm
Compared to 86 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.1 mm
Drop
15.2 mm

Insole thickness

The insole that comes with the Pegasus Trail 4 GTX is of average thickness at 5.0 mm, maybe a bit thicker than most shoes, but it's not something you'll really notice.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Insole thickness
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 5.0 mm
Average 4.7 mm
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
2.7 mm
Insole thickness
9.8 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

Nike has employed its tried-and-true React midsole in the Pegasus Trail 4 GTX, aiming for a perfect balance between stability and comfort, and the foam truly delivers in that respect.

React might not be Nike's most advanced foam—it's ZoomX—but it performs its job exceptionally well, standing far ahead of many other middle-of-the-pack foams in terms of energy return. We really liked it!

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Midsole softness
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 18.6 HA
Average 26.3 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
9.4 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
50.3 HA

Midsole softness in cold

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

Most potential users of any Gore-Tex shoe are runners eager to keep training in harsh winter conditions, so performing the freezer test on the Pegasus Trail 4 GTX was crucial for us.

After 20 long minutes, we re-tested it with the Shore A durometer and it delivered a result of 20.9 HA.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Midsole softness in cold
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 20.9 HA
Average 32.4 HA
Compared to 83 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
11.8 HA
Midsole softness in cold (soft to firm)
55.0 HA

Difference in midsole softness in cold

That's only a 12.1% increase, a performance that matches up with ZoomX and other world-class, PEBA-based foams on the market, all in a more affordable package!

Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 12.1%
Average 27%
Compared to 83 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
100%

Stability

The outsole might look thin at just 1.0 mm, but it's not a worry for us.

The lugs contribute a substantial amount of rubber and offer average durability, as we've demonstrated before. So, the blend of the outsole and the lugs will definitely provide more than enough durability across all terrains, including roads.

Lateral stability test

As a Pegasus model, this shoe is designed for neutral runners who don't require specific stability features like medial posts or guidance.

Yet, its performance is nothing short of miraculous in this aspect, offering a ride that's consistently stable on buffed trails, leading us to believe it could also suit slight pronators if necessary.

Torsional rigidity

We discovered in our tests that one of the main reasons for the shoe's impressive stability is its torsional rigidity.

When we manually assessed it, we found it's as rigid—scoring 4 out of 5—as trail shoes that have carbon plates like the Saucony Endorphin Edge, even though this one doesn't.

Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 4
Average 3.5
Compared to 81 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

In stark contrast, Nike aimed for maximum comfort in the heel area, so we found the heel counter to be extremely flexible and adaptable.

This is great news, especially for runners with Haglund's deformity, who often struggle with a stiff heel counter.

Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 2
Average 3.2
Compared to 79 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width in the forefoot

The Pegasus saga has always been like the average Joe of shoes, and Nike's designers stuck to that winning formula with the shoe's dimensions. We measured the forefoot and got 111.6 mm, which is... yeah, you guessed it, just average!

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 111.6 mm
Average 111.8 mm
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
102.1 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
126.0 mm

Midsole width in the heel

The forefoot is also pretty similar to the average (88.5 mm), with nothing significant to note. The big risk here could have been a too narrow heel, which would have caused trouble for heel strikers, since this shoe is designed for them. However, it's all good!

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 88.5 mm
Average 89.6 mm
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
77.2 mm
Midsole width in the heel
109.3 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

We know many runners use their Pegasus Trail 4 for everyday wear and even as their go-to shoe for traveling, thanks to its incredible versatility in handling both road and trails—making it the ultimate choice for light packing.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX

With that in mind, Nike continues to deliver a flexible shoe that only required 21.1N of effort from us to bend it to 90 degrees, making it exceptionally comfortable!

Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 21.1N
Average 29.2N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
10.5N
Stiffness
54.5N

Stiffness in cold

When exposed to cold temperatures, the shoe underwent a slight change.

After spending another 20 minutes in our freezer, we re-tested it and recorded a higher result at 26.5N.

Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 26.5N
Average 40.1N
Compared to 84 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
11.9N
Stiffness in cold
92.1N

Difference in stiffness in cold

We believe most runners won't notice this change. It's just a 25.3% difference.

Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 25.3%
Average 37.9%
Compared to 84 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in stiffness in cold
102%

Grip / Traction

Lug depth

One of the major criticisms the Pegasus Trail series has faced over time is its grip on wet surfaces, a crucial aspect for a GTX shoe. That's why Nike introduced a new rubber formulated for wet conditions and a redesigned outsole.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX outsole

The new outsole design features a wide variety of 3.5-mm lug shapes, each tailored to handle different terrains and situations, like uphill running, downhill, or taking corners.

We must say, while it's still not quite on par with a Vibram outsole, Nike is definitely stepping up their game!

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Lug depth
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 3.5 mm
Average 3.5 mm
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.7 mm
Lug depth
5.8 mm

Size and fit

Toebox width at the widest part

Another common critique of Nike shoes is their snug fit. But that's not an issue with the Pegasus Trail 4 GTX.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX

We measured the widest part of the upper at an impressive 100.7 mm, making this shoe well-suited even for those with wide feet.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 100.7 mm
Average 98.7 mm
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
92.0 mm
Toebox width at the widest part
104.9 mm

Toebox width at the big toe

And it gets even better for those who want plenty of space inside the toebox. We measured the big toe area at 82.7 mm, which ranks among the most generous uppers we've tested.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 82.7 mm
Average 78.0 mm
Compared to 49 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
70.5 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
89.5 mm

Tongue: gusset type

We have a problem here: this is a trail shoe equipped with Gore-Tex, and the tongue isn't gusseted.

This is a big disappointment for us. In a Gore-Tex shoe, where waterproofing is crucial, we believe a fully-gusseted tongue is a must-have. And the same goes for any trail running shoe...

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX None

Comfort

Tongue padding

The tongue is not heavily padded, just average at 6.3 mm.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX tongue

We think this is the right approach—this design works well and we definitely don't want the shoe to add more weight than what's already added by the Gore-Tex membrane.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Tongue padding
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX 6.3 mm
Average 6.3 mm
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Tongue padding
12.2 mm

Heel tab

At the back of the shoe, Nike added a sleek finger-loop heel tab that's seamlessly integrated with the ankle gaiter, and it looks fantastic.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Heel tab
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Finger loop

Removable insole

The insole in the Peg Trail 4 GTX is removable and pretty straightforward, so we easily swapped in other insoles without issue.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Removable insole
Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

As a trail shoe designed for adventures, it was crucial for us that it had reflective elements—and it does have them. However, the reflectivity is quite low, and clearly, Nike could have done a much better job in this area.

Test results
Pegasus Trail 4 GTX Yes