Nike is one of the leaders in the athletic industry, offering a wide array of sports equipment. I trust them in terms of their running shoes, with the many models for each running style and preference. While I love how they produce a ton of models and different shoe styles, it makes it difficult for people to choose what suits them most.
So, of all the different Nike shoes, which is the best for you? Read on as I show you the 16 best Nike running shoes for both men and women. I’ll also be including a detailed purchasing guide and answer some questions you may have wondered about as well!
Contents
- 8 Best Nike Running Shoes for Men 2022
- 1. The One Made For Speed: Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes
- 2. The Strong and Versatile: Nike Revolution 4 Running Shoes
- 3. The Smooth and Responsive: Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35 Running Shoes
- 4. The Simple and Beginner-Friendly: Nike Lunarglide 6 PRT Running Sneakers
- 5. The Attractive and Comfy: Nike Flex RN Running Shoes
- 6. The Sleek and Fast Feel: Nike Air Zoom Winflo 6 Running Shoes
- 7. The Professional and Light: Nike Competition Running Shoes
- 8. The Featherweight and Revolutionary: Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo 2 Running Shoes
- 8 Best Nike Running Shoes for Women 2022
- 1. The Fast and Cool Design: Nike Free RN Flyknit Running Shoes
- 2. The Solid and Durable: Nike Air Zoom Structure 22 Running Shoes
- 3. The Comfortable and Conforming: Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes
- 4. The Breathable and Firm: Nike Air Zoom Vomero Mesh Running Shoes
- 5. The Natural Movement: Nike Zoom Winflo 6 Running Shoes
- 6. The Breathable and Lightweight: Nike Zoom Pegasus 35 Running Shoes
- 7. The Supportive and Stretchy: Nike Epic React Flyknit Running Shoes
- 8. The Dynamic Fit and Well-Cushioning: Nike Zoom Vomero Running Shoes
- How to Choose the Best Nike Running Shoes
- Frequently Asked Questions: Nike Running Shoes
- Wrapping It Up
8 Best Nike Running Shoes for Men 2022
1. The One Made For Speed: Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 is the best for men’s running shoes because of its many useful features. It’s made with an engineered mesh that’s seamlessly constructed for unbroken flow, making it more durable. Furthermore, the mesh upper is combined with Flywire technology, offering lockdown and support without the bulkiness.
Made with Cushlon ST foam, these shoes continue to promote flexibility and soft cushioning. I highly recommend these shoes for all neutral runners with any running goal in mind.
Pros:
- Versatile and made for all neutral runners with its comfort
- Flywire technology keeps the feet snug and supported well
- Durable traction with the quality rubber and waffle outsole
Cons:
- The shoe feels like it slips off from the heel sometimes
- Not enough support or stability if your feet overpronate
2. The Strong and Versatile: Nike Revolution 4 Running Shoes
The Nike Revolution 4 Running Shoe is the strong pair of shoes that are made to last for years. Besides that, it’s versatile and can be used for cross-training, so you can make more use of it to get your money’s worth.
These are considered as professional athletic shoes with its soft foam, offering the lightweight yet responsive cushion. It also has a better structure for comfortable rides and better traction on most surfaces. I also appreciate that it has better energy return and responsiveness as it absorbs shock.
Pros:
- Minimal design with excellent traction and soft cushioning
- Soft foam midsole for responsiveness and better bounce
- Absorbs shock well to prevent any pain from intense runs
Cons:
- Takes some time to get used to the new feel and break-in
- The shoes sometimes squeak if walking, but not so irritating
3. The Smooth and Responsive: Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35 Running Shoes
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35 is the predecessor of my editor’s choice but still deserves the recognition. This is because it still provides the exemplary features men need in their running shoes! This Zoom Air model keeps your runs smoother and responsive, ensuring less pain and more comfort.
It’s designed with a beveled heel so the touchdown and transition feel natural and in good posture. The shoes also have the engineered heel collar and well-placed eyelet, so it has a more accurate fit and keeps your entire feet free from running injuries.
Pros:
- Awesome shock absorption and protection from any surface
- Terrific traction on most tracks doesn’t slip and has great grip
- It has a smooth and responsive feel for better feet positioning
Cons:
- Outsole may wear out quickly when worn on rocky surfaces
- Shoelaces aren’t as high-quality and unlace by themselves
4. The Simple and Beginner-Friendly: Nike Lunarglide 6 PRT Running Sneakers
The Nike Lunarglide 6 PRT Running Sneakers are made for the beginner runner because of its price and good features. However, even advanced runners will love these shoes, as they can be used for longer runs and marathons without giving out.
The shoes keep your feet stable and promote better motion control, which is best if you have high arches. You won’t feel any pain as you run and its mesh upper keeps your feet cooler for intense exercises. If you have flat feet or high arches, this one’s for you!
Pros:
- Made best for those with flat feet or high arches for support
- Prevents any running injuries or typical body pain after runs
- Simple design yet attractive and can be worn anywhere
Cons:
- They are on the narrower side, a minor issue for wide feet
- The shoelaces are shorter than the usual running shoelaces
5. The Attractive and Comfy: Nike Flex RN Running Shoes
The Nike Flex RN Running Shoes have that shine that can truly attract. However, what makes it a part of my list is its excellent comfort! These are fantastic running shoes with extra cushioning, optimal if you are a neutral runner.
Not only does it have the plush cushioning to keep my feet pain-free, but the better tread pattern and lighter weight. Its overall design makes running more enjoyable, especially if I run for longer distances.
Pros:
- Plush cushioning and stronger, flexible grooves for comfort
- Accurate sizing and good length that conforms to your feet
- Lightweight and good support for less pain and more runs
Cons:
- Not the best for casual wear, only made for walks and runs
- Some may not like the shiny look to the shoe
6. The Sleek and Fast Feel: Nike Air Zoom Winflo 6 Running Shoes
The Nike Air Zoom Winflo 6 has a beautifully sleek design for the fast look AND feel. It’s built for the sprinter or speedrunner who needs something light yet comfortable with the unique heel foam. It would sweep away from your Achilles tendon, keeping it away from any chance of injuries.
These shoes aren’t only made for fast runs, but longer distances as well, keeping the feet free form fatigue and pain. These shoes are the best for its high-quality foam and lightweight profile, living up to the name NIKE AIR ZOOM!
Pros:
- Very comfortable and prevents any injuries with unique foam
- The shoes have an accurate fit and feel snug like a glove
- Has good softness and fast profile for long and fast runs
Cons:
- Some complaints about its durability, the shoes wrinkle easily
- It comes at a slightly more expensive price
7. The Professional and Light: Nike Competition Running Shoes
The Nike Competition Running Shoes are the perfect choice for marathons, competitions, or even high-intensity running sessions or cross-training. I commend it for its versatility and great traction against any type of surface or track, built with the athlete-informed outsole pattern.
Its unique outsole pattern can also disperse impact evenly for the smoother transition while keeping the feet comfortable with its soft cushioning. Many runners will love it most for its extra cushioning without compromising the shock absorption or energy return.
Pros:
- It distributes the shock and impacts evenly for no feet pain
- Has a smooth transition as you run for longer distances
- They are made for intense runs, marathons, and competitions
Cons:
- It may come narrower than expected for those with wide feet
- Complaints of receiving the wrong or faded color designs
8. The Featherweight and Revolutionary: Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo 2 Running Shoes
The Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo 2 is built for the sprinter, whether for training or professional use. It features the featherlight upper, one of the lightest available in Nike. Furthermore, it has high-tech and innovative foam material for amazing responsiveness, no matter how long you run for.
The mesh upper is lofted and made with mesh and synthetic material, as well as the translucent design to have it look and feel breathable. It even has the extra lightweight ZoomX cushioning for better energy return and impact absorption. It does NOT hurt at all and keeps your feet away from unnecessary fatigue as you go.
Pros:
- It has great arch support for those who overpronate
- Extremely comfortable and lightweight with unique foam
- Excellent bounce and energy return to run even faster
Cons:
- The sizes may run a bit larger, order half a size smaller
- There are some complaints of the heels’ durability
8 Best Nike Running Shoes for Women 2022
1. The Fast and Cool Design: Nike Free RN Flyknit Running Shoes
My editor’s choice has to be the Nike Free RN Fly Knit Running shoes for women. It’s one of the most comfortable shoes I’ve run with but it doesn’t compromise on quality, still feeling light and breathable.
While they squeak a bit as I run, it’s not a huge disadvantage and I can live with it. It may fade after a few runs since it still requires some breaking in. Either way, it feels great and offers better comfort and support for both long and speedy runs.
Pros:
- It’s extremely lightweight and won’t feel bulky for speed runs
- The shoes offer great support and keeps feet away from pain
- Fits like a glove and has the accurate sizing for most runners
Cons:
- Tends to squeak for the first few miles, though not too loud
- It needs some time to break the shoes in before it feels better
2. The Solid and Durable: Nike Air Zoom Structure 22 Running Shoes
If you’re more focused on getting something made to last for years, you’ll appreciate the Air Zoom Structure 22. These shoes are made with the premium materials that keep their suppler and prevent it from wearing out easily. Plug, it has the snug and comfortable fit with the right tongue notches and bootie wraps.
The shoes are made with an engineered mesh for the balance of support and breathability, as well as the Dynamic Support to keep your runs much smoother and stabler. I highly recommend these shoes if you have overpronation and need more stability.
Pros:
- Engineered mesh for extra support and breathability for cool feet
- Has the good tongue notch for easy slipping on and snug fit
- Zoom Air with responsive and low-profile cushioning for comfort
Cons:
- It may take some time to break into the cushioning
- Feels a bit stiff at first, which can cause some discomfort
3. The Comfortable and Conforming: Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 is another excellent choice, especially if you want something lighter as a neutral runner. These shoes are built with the slimmer design so it’s lighter and more flexible, but still giving you the cushioning for extra comfort.
It’s made with a Cushlon ST foam, which is firm to protect your feet, but still soft enough for it to feel comfortable for long-distance runs. You can’t expect anything less from the Zoom Air, having the softer and low-profile cushioning without compromising weight.
Pros:
- Has the firm yet responsive and soft cushioning for protection
- High-resiliency sock liner for added support, adapting to feet
- Slim and lightweight design that conforms to your feet
Cons:
- Some complaints of too high arches for neutral runners
- Best for running shorter and faster miles, under six miles
4. The Breathable and Firm: Nike Air Zoom Vomero Mesh Running Shoes
The Nike Air Zoom Vomero Mesh has the breathability I can count on, as well as the solid construction to last. I also like that they don’t pinch my toes at all, having an adequate width for narrow and wide feet. They also have adequate arch support so my ankles aren’t rolling!
While it isn’t the most cushioned Nike running shoes, it still has the adequate cushioning I need to keep my feet away from pain. Overall, I believe it’s worth the price, especially if you’re a neutral runner with pinched toes or wider feet.
Pros:
- Extremely flexible for neutral runners, no need to break-in
- Wider in the toe area to prevent pinched toes and discomfort
- Lightweight and doesn’t drag your feet down
Cons:
- It’s not as much cushioning compared to other Nike shoes
- May feel a bit stiff for new runners, needs time to get used to
5. The Natural Movement: Nike Zoom Winflo 6 Running Shoes
I’m in love with the Nike Zoom Winflo 6 for its unique and futuristic design. Besides the sleek and sculpted profile, it also performs amazingly if you plan to sprint or focus on speed runs.
It’s built with the soft heel foam, which sweeps away from your Achilles tendon to add comfort and prevent injury. Furthermore, it’s built with a Cushlon foam, which is lightweight yet offers the bounce you want as you sprint faster. For its awesome design down to the snug and fast profile, it’s definitely worth the investment.
Pros:
- It comes in cool colors and futuristic design runners admire
- Snug fit that stays true to size, conforming to your feet
- Lightweight and soft foam that offers a springy bounce
Cons:
- It may take time to break in, sometimes causing blisters
- Some complaints about delivering the wrong colored shoes
6. The Breathable and Lightweight: Nike Zoom Pegasus 35 Running Shoes
The Nike Zoom Pegasus 35 is one of the best in terms of breathability and ventilation. I always have a cool run with these no matter how hot it gets. My feet don’t feel stuffy and don’t sweat as much as before compared to other running shoes.
Besides this, it’s very light and great for speed runs. While it doesn’t have as much support as I expected, it’s still a good choice for natural runners who don’t need any special or extra arch support.
Pros:
- Offers the excellent breathability with a lightweight mesh upper
- It has adequate cushioning to keep your feet comfortable
- The shoes are made for speed runs for the lighter properties
Cons:
- Not as much support for high arches, you may feel some pain
- The ankle may dip awkwardly low and can’t fit orthotics well
7. The Supportive and Stretchy: Nike Epic React Flyknit Running Shoes
The Nike Epic React Flyknit has the minimalistic design but can come in a lot of colors. But its main feature is its excellent breathability and ventilation. It’s built with the Flyknit mesh upper, not only offering cooler rides but added support and flexibility for neutral runners!
This shoe also has the React technology for smoother runs, encouraging more freedom and natural posture to prevent any injuries. I recommend it best for marathon running and longer distances because of its exemplary support and the way it promotes better movement.
Pros:
- Excellent support with React technology and webbing
- Flyknit construction for a lighter feel and more flexibility
- Has a molded heel, making it easy to put on or off
Cons:
- Some people have reported of having blisters after running
- May come at a larger size, need to order half a size smaller
8. The Dynamic Fit and Well-Cushioning: Nike Zoom Vomero Running Shoes
Last but not least, I want to commend these Nike Zoom Vomero running shoes. These are simply-styled shoes but offer the comfort and durability you need at a more affordable price.
The shoes have a notched tongue that makes the shoe easier to slip on, as well as offering the more secure fit to avoid it from slipping off easily. The foam pads within the shoe collar also hug around the foot without feeling too right, keeping it more secure.
Furthermore, it’s built with the Dynamic Fit technology and Flywire cables, conforming to your individual feet size and adding more support for arduous running sessions.
Pros:
- Offers a more secure feel with foam pads and notched tongue
- Comfortable and made for long runs and work purposes
- Has a snug and more accurate fit, it’s easy to put on
Cons:
- The tongue might be too short for some, eating up socks
- Some complaints of it being too wide for narrow feet
How to Choose the Best Nike Running Shoes
Nike is known to have one of the best running shoes around, but choosing one isn’t just about getting the first pair you see. There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing your Nike shoes. Make sure to think about these aspects when selecting your running shoes:
1. What Type of Running Shoes Do You Need?
There are four main categories of running shoes, including those from Nike:
- Stability shoes are made for those who have overprinting feet, as their feet roll and go slightly inward. Because of these, you need stable shoes that correct your feet’s position
- Motion control shoes are the most rigid choices, which are also heavy. These shoes are not made for everyone but do provide better support and cushioning. I recommend this shoe type for heavier runners or those with flat feet, as this can promote better movement to prevent injuries
- Neutral shoes are designed with only small amounts of cushioning, the “normal” shoe type if you have a neutral gait
- Barefoot shoes are made for those who want a more minimalistic design and want to feel the ground as they run without injuring their feet from the surface. It mimics barefoot running while protecting your feet
2. Your Running Style
We all run in different ways with different levels and goals. Furthermore, no foot is the same, with various types of feet that have personal running styles.
Neutral runners are made for neutral shoes, those who have normal feet arches so they have more freedom in their shoe choices. These runners land on their heels first, then roll the feet toward their toes. For these runners, you’re best off with the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus, Flyknit, or Vaporfly.
Underpronators or supinators have feet that roll outwards as you run during the side-to-side movement. This causes your feet to have lower flexibility, so the landing is hard and more at risk of injury. You’ll require more flexible running shoes that offer high cushioning.
Overpronators have feet that roll inward as they run, so you will require shoes that have more stability or motion control, depending on the severity of your high arches. This lessens any risk of knee injuries and joint pain. The best Nike shoes to get are from the Air Zoom series as well, particularly the Air Zoom 22.
3. Where Will You Run?
Nike has a lot of running shoe models available and made for specific trails and surface types. So where do you plan to run?
Road Running
Most of the running shoes Nike produces are made for the road, as well as daily training. They also work for running competitions and marathons, making them the most versatile. Such running shoes are known for their responsiveness and flexibility.
For those who run mostly on the road, track, or treadmill, I recommend getting the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus series. However, there are many more models made for the road and track, which I mention in my reviews.
Trail Running
These types of shoes offer a lot more traction and protection against sharp and slippery surfaces. However, they are heavier and bulkier compared to road shoes, so they are not to be used interchangeably. These are made best for trail runs for better safety and durability, made to last longer than road running shoes.
4. What’s Your Size?
Of course, your size is one of the most crucial parts of choosing any type of shoes. You wouldn’t want to run uncomfortably in shoes that constrict your feet or feel too loose, which can increase your chance of ankle rolling.
Nike offers various shoe sizes ranging from size 6 to 15, as well as narrow and wide fit options for some of their models. If you have flat feet, you’re better off with wider widths and toe boxes, while neutral feet can either go for narrow or medium lengths.
You can have your feet measured for an accurate shoe size from your local shoe store, or to use your typical shoe size as a start.
Check customer reviews to see if the sizes run too large or small, as you may need to order half a size smaller or larger, since Nike may have different sizing standards.
5. Nike Running Shoe Technologies
Nike has a lot of technologies for their running shoes, making them unique. Here are the different Nike running shoe models I reviewed above and the definition of their features:
- The Flyknit is a specially woven fabric for the shoe upper to be more breathable and feel like socks. This will also support the runners’ feet better while leaving the rest of the shoe feeling free. This technology is lightweight and flexible, as well as environment-friendly as it produces up to 60% less waste compared to other running shoe uppers
- Engineered Mesh, or Flymesh, is lightweight mesh construction which is more breathable while maintaining durability and flexibility. It also comes at a lower price point
- Lunarfoam is Nike’s lightest and most cushioned foam available, offering the plush ride
- Phylon is Nike’s basic foam, made with EVA foam pellets
- Cushlon is a combination of Phylon and rubber additives, making it responsive and lighter
- Nike Air comes in Air, Air Max, or Air Zoom. These use a Cushlon foam, which is soft and resilient while filling these foams with air to reduce weight and increase the cushioning. As a result, you get thick cushioning and more bounce with less weight!
- Nike Free is one of the most flexible shoes around, giving your feet the freedom to move naturally. They are still cushioned but offer enough feel to the ground to have it seem like barefoot running
Frequently Asked Questions: Nike Running Shoes
Other than learning about how to choose running shoes, what else is there to learn about them? Check out these frequently asked questions our readers have wondered about with Nike:
1. Is Nike a safe brand and do they work ethically?
Fortunately, Nike IS a safe brand that follows proper ethics, from being environment-friendly to fair labor. You are getting shoes that have been made in monitored contract factories without the use of sweatshops or child labor. Furthermore, their workers get paid the fair minimum wage worldwide and source their materials from responsible suppliers.
This is what makes a brand a great investment because you know you’re not only getting high-quality shoes. The brand stays true to its commitment to factory monitoring and transparency not only for its stockholders but for all its customers around the world. (https://purpose.nike.com/faq)
2. Why choose Nike over other running shoe brands?
There are many reasons as to why I recommend Nike running shoes over other brands.
Nike is an internationally-known brand that ensures their products aren’t only made with quality, but with good price in mind. They use advanced technology and listen to customer needs, ensuring that demands are met for all types of runners and athletes. Hundreds of athletes worldwide partner with Nike because of their trust with the product quality, from shoes to clothes and sports equipment.
However, this does not mean that all the other running shoe brands are immediately below Nike. I support Nike for its many benefits, but you can also find other amazing sports brands that roll out high-tech and useful running shoes. You can check out more of my other running shoe purchasing guides of different brands!
3. How will I know if I have knock-off or imitation Nike shoes?
Unfortunately, there are many imitation Nike shoes being sold online and in illegitimate stores. While most Nikes made in other countries are authentic (as they have factories around the world), some businesses make a profit in creating knock-offs.
It’s easy to tell which are knock-off shoes, starting by reading the legitimacy and testimonials of Nike shoe sellers online. Be sure to purchase your shoes only from legitimate Nike retail stores and sellers!
Check the shoes itself by examining its packaging, as well as the shoe condition. Examine the shoes’ SKU number located in the box and shoe labels, and you can check if both numbers match.
Real Nike shoes are usually softer than fake ones as they are made with real leather and its midsoles have no visible dots and will have full laces when shipped. Plus, you’ll be able to determine its “realness” based on the shoe’s overall feel. Fake Nikes feel more plastic-y without much traction and come designed from inaccurate colors.
Do you want to learn more about how to find out if your Nike running shoes are real or counterfeit? Check out this informative video for more visual tips:
4. When should I plan to replace my Nike running shoes?
Nike running shoes are known for their durability, but there will come a time for a replacement after a few hundred miles. It will take longer with Nike running shoes, depending on the specific shoe model and how often you use it.
Typically, a pair of Nike running shoes can last for up to 500-600 miles. If you run 10 miles a week and take care of your shoes well, it can last for up to five years! If you’re a professional athlete, then it can last for a year or longer if you interchange shoes between runs.
5. Does Nike offer a good warranty for their running shoes?
The warranty of your Nike running shoes depends on the following:
- Where you bought the shoes from
- The type of running shoes you bought
If you bought the shoes online from legitimate online Nike resellers (like the ones I reviewed above), they usually have a warranty and money-back guarantee. Some Nike products have specific warranties but typically, you can return your shoes within 30 days for a full refund, whether worn or not.
For running shoes that have been owned longer than 30 days but less than two years from the manufacture date, then you can contact Nike and the store you bought it from to see if there’s a chance to repair or replace the shoes.
I mention warranty conditions in some of my reviews above, and you can also check your chosen shoes’ labels.
Wrapping It Up
When it comes to wanting the best for your feet, you can never go wrong with Nike. With their top-of-the-line shoes in many models and designs, you can surely find the one made for your feet and style of running. After all, what more can you expect from one of the top sports brands worldwide?
For the men’s the best Nike running shoes go out to the Air Zoom Pegasus 36, known for its lightweight properties and strong build. It’s made with the advanced Flywire technology to ensure that your feet experience smooth movement from air to pavement. You can feel the cushioning and the entire shoe is made to last!
As for the women’s Nike running shoes, the best one goes to the Free RN Flyknit. These are one of the lightest running shoes that will help with speed without compromising on comfort. While it may squeak a bit, it still packs a punch and has you running comfortably for long hours.
I hope that this ultimate guide on the best Nike running shoes helped you out. So don’t wait any longer and look into investing in any of these shoes today.
Do you have any questions or want to share your tips and reviews on these shoes? Share it in the comments section below, all your thoughts are much appreciated!
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