There are dozens of well-known running brands to choose from and while the top brands have an incredible lineup, Nike is a go-to brand in the running industry. Nike was founded in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports, by Bill Bowerman, a track and field coach at the University of Oregon. From the get-go, the brand was aligned with running and has been dedicated to creating the ideal running shoe for every type of runner. Nike has been making strides in the industry since it was established, and with new and improved technology and materials, Nike is the ideal brand to shop when searching for running gear.
Renowned runners across the world own Nike running shoes and now in their 20th or more iteration, Nike continues to provide running enthusiasts with the ideal running shoes men and women can enjoy. Nike is also constantly innovating in the field and releases new shoe models every year, from cushioned running shoes for those with a neutral running gait to stability running shoes for those who overpronate or have flat feet.
What makes Nike so special in the field of running footwear is that the brand offers models of running shoes for every type of runner and every type of foot. Whether you are new to the sport or run marathons every other weekend, there is a Nike shoe for you.
In this article, we take a look at the 5 best Nike running shoes for every type of runner.
5 Best Nike Running Shoes For Any Runner
- Nike Running Shoes for Beginners: Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39
If you are new to running and are on a budget, then the value and performance of the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 is the shoe that fits! The shoe is in its 39th iteration and is one of the most beloved shoes in the Nike canon. The running shoe is well cushioned, light, durable and breathable and the padded tongue and wider toe box make for a comfortable running shoe for everyday runners, long runners and beginners.
The shoe is also known to be a great neutral running shoe and features midfoot webbing to offer stability, a durable rubber outsole and react foam in the sole for lightweight cushioning without added bulk. The Nike Air unit that sits in the heel of the shoe also offers a responsive bounce and spring in your step.
- Nike Running Shoes for Trail Runners: Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GORE-TEX
Here’s one for the adventurers! Nike offers an array of trail running shoes and the Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GORE-TEX is known for its ability in the trail. Think of it as an adventured-up version of the Nike Zoom Air Pegasus – designed for every type of weather. The trail running shoe has an outsole with additional traction to ensure your safety on even the most uneven terrain and the shockwave pattern of the grippy nubs resembles bike tires – which offers excellent traction when running downhill or uphill. The midfoot of the shoe offers added support while maintaining the neutral shoe architecture and the shoe has a 100% waterproof upper that will keep your feet free from the elements. The little gaiter at the collar of the shoe also prevents first, grit or any stones from getting inside of your shoe – making for a comfortable and smooth run.
The shoe isn’t a zero-drop running shoe however it is pleasing for most runners and is a nice transition from typing running shoes to trail running shoes. The shoe is also cushioned with full-length Nike React foam technology – which makes your comfort on the trail that much better.
- Nike Running Shoes for Minimalist Runners: Nike Free Run 5.0
If you are a runner who likes to amp up the speed and feel light on your feet, then a lightweight, minimalist running shoe is for you. Nike’s Free Run 5.0 is known for being one of the best lightweight running shoes and has actually been voted the best minimalist running shoe by a variety of running publications.
The running shoe has an iconic sock-like fit and offers a barefoot feeling, and can be worn for running, gyming or just walking around town. The shoe is sustainable and made from responsive foam, with 20% recycled content by weight and the laser-cut grooves make for optimal flexibility – so you get that barefoot running feel – but with protection.
- Nike Running Shoes for Stability: ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit
Stability running shoes are perfect for runners who overpronate. This is when the arch collapses and the foot rolls inward from the ankle when the foot hits the ground. This kind of running can increase the stress that travels up the leg and can contribute to running injuries including plantar fasciitis and shin splints.
One of the most popular stability shoes is the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit. The shoe is well-cushioned and has a wider forefoot that contributes to enhanced stability and a greater curvature to the outsole than that of a neutral shoe. This provides more control through the heel-to-toe transition of a stride.
The Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit is made of a breathable Flyknit upper, and provides airglow and security where your foot requires. This shoe is great for long runs and the responsive foam holds up well to longer workouts and bounces back fully.
- Nike Running Shoes for Cushioned Comfort: Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16
If you require greater cushioning then look no further than the Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16. This shoe is lightweight and has ZoomX Foam cushioning and Nike’s responsive cushioned foam provides an energetic bouncy return to your running stride.
The cushioning is added below the forefoot to give you a springy push with every step you take and the result is that your legs feel fast and fresh miles into your run. The shoe also offers stability to your foot while still feeling like you are running on clouds and the stability is achieved by the midfoot band, which is integrated with the laces so that you are able to adjust exactly how snug your foot feels.The shoe also has a heel clip to stabilise your foot over uneven ground and helps control the transition to push off. The shoe also weighs 9.1 ounces and has zones of ventilated mesh to keep your feet dry and cool.
As one of the leading running brands, take a look at Nike running shoes men and women can enjoy and take to the open road or trail in style.