Nike is a brand that has been setting standards in the world of running shoes for decades, offering iconic models tailored to different needs. There is the versatile Pegasus, which has been winning the hearts of runners for over forty years. There is the exceptionally soft and comfortable Invincible. And there is the ultra-fast Alphafly, which reigns supreme in competitions. And trail shoes such as the Pegasus Trail. Let’s take a closer look at what these shoes have to offer!
Depending on your needs and requirements, Nike running shoes can be divided into three main segments:
- Training – designed for daily training, making you feel comfortable and providing cushioning and support during long, easy runs. These models are designed for endurance to withstand regular use and are ideal for a variety of surfaces, from hard surfaces to paths.
- Fast – designed for intensive, fast training sessions and competitions. They are characterized by lightness, dynamics and responsiveness, allowing you to reach maximum speed. These shoes often use advanced technologies, such as carbon fiber plates, to support running efficiency and improve performance.
- Trail shoes are designed for running on difficult terrain, such as forests, mountain trails or muddy paths. Equipped with an aggressive outsole and a reinforced construction, they offer excellent traction, stability and protection against stones and other obstacles.
Trainers for running
Training shoes are the basis of every runner’s equipment. Runners training in urban conditions should run in these shoes for about 80% of their training sessions. They are primarily designed for easy and slow running. However, it is up to you and if you want to pick up speed in these shoes, you can. If you are looking for a single pair of running shoes, you should also look in this group of shoes.
| NEUTRAL SHOES | STABILITY SHOES | |
|---|---|---|
| maximum cushioning |  Invincible Run 3 | |
| very high cushioning |  Vomero 18 |  Infinity Run 4 |
| high cushioning |  Pegasus 41 |  Structure 25 |
| mid cushioning |  Winflo 11 |
Nike Invincible 3
One of the biggest hovercrafts among running shoes. Built on a huge amount of ZoomX foam, which provides not only “pontoon” cushioning, but also springy softness. Compared to its predecessor, it is a bit more stable, but even on this huge soft platform, the foot tends to float sideways, and if you are looking for high stability, you will not find it here. The fairly stiff Flyknit upper provides plenty of room up front and good support in the metatarsus and heel.
- Drop: 9 mm
- Weight: 310 g men’s, 258 g women’s
- Regular price: 190 EUR
Nike Zoom Vomero 18
The Nike Vomero 18 is the second-highest training shoe in the brand’s lineup, and this latest edition adds 7mm of stack for even more cushioning. Its construction is based on a combination of ReactX and ZoomX foams – the former provides elasticity and stability, while the latter is responsible for softness and dynamic rebound. As a result, the shoe offers a high level of comfort, making it a great choice for runners who weigh around 90kg and value a high level of cushioning, especially during easy, long workouts.
- Drop: 10 mm
- Weight: 325 g men’s, 263 g women’s
- Regular price: 150 EUR
Nike Infinity Run 4
The Infinity React is similar to the Vomero in its own way, and the main difference is in the technical aspects – a different foam and a different upper. The foam is a slightly stiffer but more dynamic React, which strikes the right balance between cushioning and dynamics. The Flyknit upper provides a snug fit and good foot support. But be careful! This model should be taken a little larger than other Nike running shoes. For everyday use, it is best suited for runners weighing up to about 85 kilograms. If you are looking for a comfortable training shoe with a lot of cushioning, the Infinity 4 is worth considering.
- Drop: 9 mm
- Weight: 310 g men’s, 280 g women’s
- Regular price: 170 EUR
Nike Zoom Pegasus 41
When you don’t know what to choose, choose Pegasus – it always works. The Pegasus is a well-cushioned shoe (two Zoom gas cushions) for everyday running that has undergone a significant change in this latest edition. The React foam has been replaced with ReactX foam, making the shoe more comfortable and cushioned. This running shoe is designed for lighter runners (up to about 85 kilograms). It is a great choice for experienced runners as well as beginners and occasional runners who are looking for a shoe that is up to the challenge without breaking the bank.
- Drop: 10 mm
- Weight: 297 g men’s, 251 g women’s
- Regular price: 140 EUR
Nike Zoom Structure 25
The Nike Structure is designed for runners who tend to over-pronate. The midsole is made of Cushlon 3.0 foam for dynamic cushioning and a gas cushion under the forefoot for extra comfort. An excellent choice for everyday training, the Nike Structure combines stability with versatility, making it a good partner for both short and long distances. Similar in construction to the popular Pegasus, this shoe is designed for runners who need extra support, especially those who weigh up to about 80 kilograms.
- Drop: 8 mm
- Weight: 322 g men’s, 263 g women’s
- Regular price: 130 EUR
Nike Winflo 11
The last of the training shoes. These shoes are almost as good as the ones above. Designed for runners weighing up to 80 kilos. Very similar to the Pegasus from a few years ago. Based on a Cushlon foam midsole and two gas cushions. One under the heel, the other under the midfoot. The big plus is its price, at 110 euros.
- Drop: 10 mm
- Weight: 296 g
- Regular price: 110 EUR
Fast running shoes
Shoes in this group are designed for speed. They are designed primarily for fast and very fast running. This is due in part to their construction, which is often designed to cushion the forefoot and help with toe-off. To take full advantage of these benefits, you should run at least about 4’00/km.
| RACING | TRAINING AND COMPETITION | |
|---|---|---|
| maximum dynamics |  Alphafly 3 | |
| very high dynamics |  Vaporfly 4 |  Zoom Fly 6 |
| high dynamics |  Streakfly 2 |  Pegasus Plus |
Nike Alphafly 3
Alphafly is Nike’s most advanced running shoe. It is also one of the top shoes for half marathon and marathon running. It features a full-length carbon plate and two additional gas cushions under the forefoot. These cushions provide incredible cushioning and, in combination with the carbon fiber, ensure the right amount of stiffness and dynamics. The entire shoe is surrounded by a large amount of lightweight ZoomX foam. Compared to the Vaporfly, this model is more stable and therefore safer, even for runners who cannot maintain speeds below 4.00 km/h for long periods of time.
- Stack height: 39.5/31.5 mm
- Drop: 8 mm
- Weight: 218 g
- Regular price: 310 EUR
Nike Vaporfly 4
The fastest, lightest, and still the most popular racing shoe. For years, it has been constructed in a very simple way: the carbon fiber plate acts as a “trampoline” that absorbs energy. Ultra-light foam around it provides softness and added durability. You need to run at least 4,000 km to experience these benefits. The upper? Also ultra-thin and slightly wider and roomier than the previous model. A shoe with a lifespan of 400-500 km that should be saved for key, fast training sessions and competitions.
- Stack height: 35/28 mm
- Drop: 8 mm
- Weight: 190 g men’s, 150 g women’s
- Regular price: 260 EUR
Nike Streakfly 2
The Nike Streakfly 2 is an exceptionally lightweight and dynamic racing shoe that has undergone noticeable changes since the first edition. Its weight has been reduced, the drop has been lowered (now only 4 mm), and the key new feature is the addition of a carbon fiber plate. In the Nike hierarchy, it is now a lighter and more aggressive alternative to the Vaporfly 4. This shoe is designed for short distances (up to 5 km), maximum speed, and forefoot landing.
- Stack height: 27/23 mm
- Drop: 4 mm
- Weight: 126 g
- Regular price: 160 EUR
Nike Zoom Fly 6
A shoe with a similar construction to the Alphafly and Vaporfly, but with a slightly different purpose – training and racing. The midsole has a carbon fiber plate, responsive ZoomX foam and stable SR-02. It’s a slightly “slower” option than the fastest racing shoes, but more versatile. It is a good choice for runners looking for a versatile shoe for fast training sessions. It is also a shoe for runners who run 40 minutes for a 10K or 3:15 for a marathon.
- Drop: 8 mm
- Weight: 265 g men’s, 214 g women’s
- Regular price: 170 EUR
Nike Pegasus Plus
The Pegasus Plus is a faster version of the Pegasus. The midsole is made of lightweight and resilient Zoom X foam, which provides excellent cushioning. The upper is made of flexible Flyknit material that molds to the foot for added comfort. Although the shoe is very comfortable, it lacks the “drive” of a carbon fiber plate or similar element, which results in a slightly slower speed. The Pegasus Plus is an ideal training option for lighter runners, providing them with satisfying cushioning and moderate dynamics. On the other hand, heavier and slower runners can successfully use it as a safe racing model, even for marathon distances.
- Drop: 10 mm
- Weight: 245 g men’s, 205 g women’s
- Regular price: 180 EUR
Trail running shoes
Trail shoes are designed for people who run on forest and mountain trails. These shoes are designed to provide grip, protection from the elements, and comfort on uneven surfaces in difficult terrain.
| COMFORT | SPEED | |
|---|---|---|
| maximum cushioning |  Zegama 2 |  Ultrafly |
| forest, gravel paths |  Pegasus Trail 5 | |
| daily trail running |  Wildhorse 8 | |
| short dinstance trail running |  Terra Kiger 9 |
Nike Zegama 2
Nike’s softest and most cushioned trail shoe. The midsole is made of ZoomX foam, which is also used in the fastest shoes: the Vaporfly and Alphafly. Theoretically, it is suitable for even the longest distances, especially on rocky terrain, as the name suggests, referring to an ultra trail run in northern Spain. At the same time, the soft ZoomX foam makes the shoe exceptionally comfortable for a trail shoe. If you are looking for softness and comfort, the Zegama will win you over, whether you are looking for a shoe for difficult trails or for running in the suburban woods.
- Drop: 5 mm
- Weight: 328 g men’s, 280 g women’s
- Regular price: 180 EUR
Nike Ultrafly
The Nike Ultrafly is a trail running shoe designed for fast running on difficult terrain. It combines several seemingly contradictory features: it is extremely soft and perfectly cushioned, while remaining highly responsive. It provides a solid grip on a variety of off-road trails and in the mountains, on both easy and moderate trails. It is a shoe that is perfect for faster off-road runs and is primarily aimed at runners who like the challenge of more difficult routes.
- Drop: 8,5 mm
- Weight: 300 g men’s, 249 g women’s
- Regular price: 250 EUR
Nike Pegasus Trail 5
The Nike Pegasus Trail is a shoe for people who can’t decide if they want to run more on pavement or on dirt. It is one of the few shoes that can be considered a hybrid between an asphalt and trail model. On city streets and sidewalks, it provides cushioning, comfort, and breathability. On the other hand, it offers solid (though not exceptional) traction on light terrain such as parks or forest trails. It is the perfect choice for runners who often run through suburban woods and on a variety of surfaces.
- Drop: 9 mm
- Weight: 300 g men’s, 243 g women’s
- Regular price: 140 EUR
Nike Wildhorse 8
For those who prefer to go further and deeper than the comfortable trails in the suburban forest, there is the Wildhorse. A well-cushioned shoe, but certainly not very soft. It is best suited for everyday off-road running. At the same time, the Wildhorse is a shoe that can handle really difficult terrain – the outsole will bite into the mud. The upper protects the foot. It is a shoe for special tasks, and more advanced runners will also use it for ultra running.
- Drop: 8 mm
- Weight: 300 g
- Regular price: 130 EUR
Nike Terra Kiger 9
The Kiger is a breed of mustang from which these shoes take their name. The Terra Kiger is a low-profile shoe for people who want to feel the ground more, but are not looking for a lot of cushioning (it’s more of a low-cushioned shoe). A shoe for fast runs up to about 20 kilometers, not afraid of sudden changes in direction.
- Drop: 4 mm
- Weight: 286 g
- Regular price: 150 EUR
