Nike wasn’t known by that name in the beginning. The original name that Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman chose was Blue Ribbon Sports. They had running shoes in mind. This was largely because Knight ran Track at the University of Oregon and Bowerman coached Track there. The first shoe they created was a running shoe called the Waffle, because of that popular story where they made a sole out of a waffle maker. That apocryphal story is immortalized in the Steve Prefontaine biopic, Without Limits. Fast forward decades later and Nike is the biggest running sports brand the world has ever seen. They’re still making a ton of running shoes so here’s our list of the Best Nike Running Shoes currently available.
Of course, this does not encompass all WearTesters’ Nike running shoe reviews. You can browse them all on our Nike reviews page or our Running Shoes Reviews page.
Each shoe is put into a specific category where its strength best shines. This way, you can easily go through the list without figuring out which shoe is meant for which type of running. You can click the category you’re most interested in, and you’ll see the best Nike has to offer.
We would also like to hear your thoughts on this list, and you can even share your own list in the comments below.
These are our picks:
Best Nike Running Shoes Show
Updated 02.27.2022
Best Neutral Cushioned Nike Running Shoe
Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16
The Nike Air Zoom Vomero 15 never got a wide release in the US, but the Vomero 16 did. It feels like a more plush, more comfortable, and more accommodating version of the Pegasus 38. The shoe features a ZoomX core, a durable outsole, and a comfortable upper. If we add in the top-notch support features (beefy heel counter & wide base), we have a winner of a shoe. It’s on the more expensive side, so that’s something to consider. The 16 is only an upper change from the 15 with the main difference being that it now has a thick, padded tongue which makes it feel more luxurious and comfy. Price: $150
Most Affordable Nike Running Shoe
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39
The Nike Pegasus 39 is a lightweight, comfortable running shoe that downgrades the cushion from the Pegasus 38 (sigh) but is still a solid everyday running shoe with an affordable $130 price tag. The forefoot Zoom Air isn’t bouncy anymore, but the whole setup underfoot feels good, especially if you’re a smaller, lighter runner. Durability is great thanks to the thick rubber outsole and resilient React foam. If you’re a wide footer, you’ll need to try them on as they run slightly narrow, but there is a wide version for sale at Nike. Most people can go true to size and enjoy an unspectacular yet dependable running shoe. Read the full review. Price: $130
Best Nike Trail Running Shoe
Nike ZoomX Zegama Trail
The Nike ZoomX Zegama Trail is a max-cushioned trail shoe with a soft, comfortable upper that’s still protective. And despite the 37mm heel stack height, the heel lockdown is great with the foot sitting below the rim of the midsole foam. Both stability features keep your foot on top of the shoe on even the sharpest and quickest turns.
The one negative is the rubber used on the bottom has problems in wet conditions. As with previous Nike trail models, it’s best utilized in more desert-like environments. But rocks won’t poke you as the ZoomX inside the midsole cushions every step and mutes sharp rocks and roots. As long as you’re not often trail running in wet ecosystems, the ZoomX Zegama Trail is one of the most comfortable trail running or hiking shoes on the market and should be on your shortlist to check out. Price: $160
Best Nike Stability Running Shoe
Nike React Infinity Run 3
The Nike React Infinity Run 3 is a well-rounded shoe that can be your daily workhorse. The stability comes from the heel clip that extends past the arch on both sides of the foot. It adds enough stability to keep your foot’s excess motion from happening.
The React midsole is plush and lasts a long time. The shoe’s rocker motion is smooth. The fit accommodates every foot type while the heel lockdown is better than in previous versions. Plus, the Flyknit is super comfy and molds to your foot. The lacing system isn’t the best, but this shoe is a good choice for solid stability and comfort. See the full review. Price: $160
Best Nike Marathon Running Shoes
Nike Air Zoom Alphafly Next% 2
Eliud Kipchoge wore the first version of this shoe when he ran the first under 2-hour marathon in history. Then he wore version 2 to set a new world record. And yes, that amps up the hype for this shoe. But you know what? It lives up to the hype. It’s the bounciest shoe available and saves your joints on long runs (and races). The second iteration is more stable but still not that stable, but if the roads you’re racing on are smooth, you’ll love it. Price $275
Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2
The Vaporfly is the original super shoe and the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 is the current version. It’s incredibly light and anchored by tons of ZoomX foam bisected with a scooped carbon fiber plate. And while the traction and support aren’t always reliable (stick to dry, paved roads) you’ll see this shoe on runners’ feet at marathons worldwide. It’s super snappy, bouncy, and just fun to run in and the entire running world knows it. Price: $250
Best Nike 5k Running Shoe
Nike ZoomX Streakfly
The Nike ZoomX Streakfly is a high-performing lightweight speedy shoe with a few flaws that are easy to overlook if you’re a shoe nerd. The durability needs work, the upper is sloppy, and there’s little support. But the ZoomX midsole, sleek design, versatility, and minuscule weight make the Streakfly a fun shoe for speedy workouts. See the full review. Price $160
Best Nike Running Shoes – Honorable Mention
Nike ZoomX Invincible Run 2
If you want the plushest ride you can get from a Nike running shoe, you’ve found the right shoe. Sporting a thick midsole comprised entirely of Nike’s super bouncy ZoomX foam, the Invincible Run 2 is the ultimate suspension system for your feet. While it may be too unstable for some, there’s ample rubber on the outsole for serious durability, and the plush ankle area, tongue, and comfy Flyknit upper provide a great fit. And FYI, it’s only a slight upper change from version 1, so our performance review of v1 is still valid. See the full review. Price $180
Best Nike Track Spikes
Nike ZoomX Dragonfly
This shoe is so popular among Track professionals that even competitive brands are letting their athletes wear blacked-out versions of the Dragonfly in important track meets. The ZoomX midsole is really, really comfortable across distances from the 800m to 5000m. It’s an incredibly lightweight versatile track spike that the best runners love to wear. Price: $150
Nike Air Zoom Victory
The Nike Air Zoom Victory is the Alphafly of track spikes. Incredible bounce and cushion but it’s not for everyone. In this case, the Victory’s carbon plate is too stiff for some runners as they struggle to achieve their natural running motion. But all that cushion, especially the huge articulated Zoom Air bag at the forefoot, is a real treat. Price: $180
Best Nike Running Shoes Now on Sale
Nike Pegasus Trail 3
The Nike Pegasus Trail 3 is one of the more comfortable trail shoes on the market. The upper feels great on foot and stays comfortable all day. The React midsole is the best midsole on a Nike trail shoe in…well…a really long time. The only issue is traction on wet rocks and mud. On wet days keep these at home, but if you mostly trail run in dry conditions, you’ll enjoy the ride. Price: $130
Nike Running Shoes to Avoid
Nike Zoom Prevail
The Nike Zoom Prevail looks like it would be a great budget option. Spoiler alert, it’s not. The midsole foam is a bit too firm and it’s hard to feel the Zoom Air in the forefoot. The upper is comfy in the heel but the midfoot doesn’t lock down particularly well and the forefoot is cavernous. There’s not enough good on this shoe to recommend it under any circumstances. Leave it on the shelf. Price $100
Thinking of a shoe we should add to the best Nike running shoes list? Comment below or message us on Instagram or Twitter.
