When it comes to running shoes, Nike is a brand that needs no introduction. For decades, Nike has been at the forefront of running shoe technology, continuously innovating to meet the needs of all types of runners.
From lightweight racers to durable trainers, Nike offers a diverse range of running shoes to support you every step of the way. But with so many options to choose from, it can be tricky to find the right pair for your individual needs.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the 15 best Nike running shoes available right now. We’ll break down each shoe, its key features, and which types of runners can benefit most from them.
Whether you’re pounding the pavement for a marathon or tackling trails on the weekend, read on to discover your perfect Nike running shoe match.
1. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 is a versatile neutral shoe designed for daily training runs. It’s a reliable choice perfect for runners looking for a balanced ride.
Key Features:
- Cushioned and responsive Zoom Air units in the forefoot and heel provide a smooth ride
- Durable rubber outsole offers traction and longevity
- Engineered mesh upper for breathability and flexibility
- Fit is improved from previous versions with a roomier toe box
Best For: Daily training, long runs, any runner looking for a dependable daily trainer
The workhorse of the Nike running lineup, the Pegasus 38 offers an ideal blend of cushioning and responsiveness for common running paces. A 10mm heel-to-toe offset promotes smooth transitions.
Moderate overpronators can also benefit from the shoe’s reliable support. The Pegasus line has long been a runner favorite, making the Pegasus 38 a versatile option suitable for just about anyone.
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2. Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit
The Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit is a max-cushioned shoe built to reduce injury risk for high mileage runners. It offers serious comfort and support in a lightweight package.
Key Features:
- Ultra-wide base for stability
- Full-length React foam midsole absorbs impact
- Flyknit upper provides a snug fit
- Flared heel counter locks in foot
Best For: Long runs, injury prevention, runners who need more support
With its wide platform and structured upper, the React Infinity Run Flyknit is designed to guide the foot into a neutral position. Deep flex grooves in the full-length React foam ensure a smooth ride.
The result is a supremely cushioned shoe that still feels lively underfoot. Testers found the shoe provided noticeable relief during long runs by reducing muscle fatigue. The React Infinity Run is a top choice for runners prone to overuse injuries.
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3. Nike Air Zoom Alphafly NEXT%
The Nike Air Zoom Alphafly NEXT% is a premium racing shoe built for competition. Nike pulled out all the stops creating this speedster, with principles derived from extensive athlete testing and research.
Key Features:
- Lightweight ZoomX foam midsole
- Full-length carbon fiber plate
- Air Zoom pods for propulsion
- VaporWeave upper material
Best For: Race day, marathoners, better and elite runners seeking a PR
Designed for maximum energy return, the Alphafly features a responsive foam-plate combo to keep you moving fast. Strategically placed Zoom Air pods provide propulsive cushioning at toe-off.
While the Alphafly has a steep price tag, its innovative features make it the ultimate competition shoe for runners aiming to set PRs and podium. The VaporWeave upper is optimized for breathability on race day.
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4. Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 2
Similar to the Alphafly, the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 2 is a lightweight racer built for speed. This iteration has been updated with a wider forefoot and reinforced upper for improved durability.
Key Features:
- Responsive ZoomX foam midsole
- Full-length carbon fiber plate
- Lightweight, breathable mesh upper
- Ideal for racing 5K to marathon
- Wider forefoot than Vaporfly NEXT% 1
Best For: Racing and speedwork for neutral runners
Like the original Vaporfly NEXT%, the second version offers exceptional energy return through its foam-plate design to keep you moving fast with less effort. The shoe is optimized for a smooth heel-to-toe transition.
While trainers are great for daily miles, the Vaporfly is intended to give elite and experienced runners an extra gear on race day for chasing PRs. The durable mesh upper is optimized for speed.
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5. Nike Air Zoom Structure 24
The Nike Air Zoom Structure 24 offers a stability shoe with a secure fit and cushioned ride. A dual-density midsole provides arch support for overpronators.
Key Features:
- Firm medial post for arch support
- Responsive Zoom Air unit in forefoot
- Deeper forefoot grooves for flexibility
- Mesh upper with Flywire cables
Best For: Overpronators, runners who need extra support
With its stabilizing features, the Structure 24 gives overpronators the plush cushioning of neutral shoes with the added support they need. The firmer foam along the inner midsole prevents excessive inward rolling.
Testers noted the Structure 24 has a roomier fit through the forefoot, improving comfort for wider feet. The partial-length Zoom Air unit provides responsive propulsion without making the shoe overly rigid.
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6. Nike Air Zoom Winflo 8
The Nike Air Zoom Winflo 8 is a budget-friendly neutral trainer with soft cushioning. It offers an accessible option for runners seeking daily mileage with responsiveness.
Key Features:
- Cushioned midsole with minimal stability features
- Zoom Air unit in forefoot
- Affordable price point
- Breathable mesh upper
Best For: Daily training for neutral runners on a budget
While not as speedy as Nike’s premium racers, the Winflo still offers a smooth, well-cushioned ride. The rockered design encourages an efficient heel-to-toe transition.
Ideal for newer runners and those looking to rack up everyday miles, the Winflo 8 provides quality on a budget. The partial rubber outsole keeps the shoe flexible while maintaining durability.
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7. Nike Joyride Dual Run
The Joyride Dual Run is an innovative shoe featuring responsive foam beads. It adapts to your footstrike for dynamic cushioning during runs.
Key Features:
- Thousands of TPE beads in the midsole
- Two separate compartments of beads
- Stretchy mesh upper
- Wide platform for stability
Best For: Easy runs; runners seeking unique cushioning
Inside the Joyride’s midsole, strategically placed pockets contain thousands of cushioning beads that compress on impact and then spring back. The result is a dynamic experience that responds to each footstrike.
While unique, testers found the bead design delivered plush, adaptive cushioning. The Joyride offers an enjoyable running experience for easy miles while providing a wide, stable base.
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8. Nike Revolution 5
A budget-friendly trainer, the Nike Revolution 5 provides a basic daily running shoe for new runners or casual workouts.
Key Features:
- Low-profile midsole offers cushioning
- Durable rubber outsole in high-wear areas
- Lightweight mesh upper for ventilation
- Affordable price point
Best For: Beginner runners, casual workouts, walking
While not designed for long distances or speedwork, the Revolution 5 offers enough cushioning for rookies looking to start running. The snug-fitting upper provides a secure feel.
As one of Nike’s most affordable models, the Revolution is ideal for those testing out the running waters or looking for a simple gym shoe. Flat spots under the arch encourage foot strength development.
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9. Nike Free RN 5.0
Ideal for runners seeking a flexible, low-profile shoe, the Nike Free RN 5.0 delivers a barefoot-like feel to strengthen feet.
Key Features:
- Segmented sole allows natural foot movement
- Low, flexible midsole keeps you closer to the ground
- Mixed-material mesh upper for breathability
- Provides minimal cushioning and support
Best For: Speedwork, short distances, strengthening feet
The Free RN mimics barefoot running with deep flex grooves that allow your feet to move naturally. The minimal cushioning encourages a lightweight midfoot strike.
While not suited for long distances, the Free RN 5.0 lets you pick up the pace for speedwork and agility training. The thin sole also provides traction underfoot when lifting weights or cross-training.
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10. Nike Zoom Fly 5
Blending speed and comfort, the Nike Zoom Fly 5 is built for tempo runs and racing fast.
Key Features:
- React foam midsole provides a smooth, stable ride
- Full-length carbon fiber plate for propulsion
- Wide forefoot for stability
- Lightweight, breathable upper
Best For: Uptempo runs, 5K to marathon racing
The Zoom Fly 5 gives you a fast, smooth ride courtesy of its responsive React foam and integrated plate. Testers found the shoe felt fast right out of the box while still offering cushioning for longer distances.
The partial rubber outsole ensures traction when you pick up the pace. While a bit narrow in the toe box, the Zoom Fly 5 stands out for its lively energy return perfect for speed work and racing.
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11. Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7
Rugged and grippy, the Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 is a trail shoe ready to tackle technical terrain and steep inclines.
Key Features:
- Aggressive lugged outsole for uphill traction
- Protective rock plate shields feet from debris
- Zoom Air unit cushions heel strikes
- Durable ripstop mesh upper
Best For: Trail running, obstacle courses, mountain running
Made for off-road adventure, the Terra Kiger provides reliable traction across sandy, muddy, and rocky terrain. Testers praise the shoe for its cushioned yet firm ride that keeps feet protected across varying surfaces.
The Tuned foam around the heel surrounds landings softly without compromising stability. A slick lacing system prevents loose laces from getting caught on branches out on the trail.
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12. Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16
The Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16 prioritizes soft cushioning and plush comfort for high mileage training.
Key Features:
- Full-length Zoom Air unit for responsive cushioning
- Upper combines mesh with supportiveFlywire cables
- Wider forefoot than previous models
- 10mm heel drop
Best For: Long runs, daily mileage for runners who prefer a softer feel
One of Nike’s most cushioned options, the Vomero 16 provides responsive shock absorption mile after mile. The forefoot and heel Zoom Air units deliver plenty of protection without feeling mushy.
While not a fast shoe, the Vomero offers heavier runners, long distance runners, and those on their feet all day the comfortable underfoot feel they crave during high mileage training.
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13. Nike ZoomX Streakfly
Built for half marathon to marathon racing, the ZoomX Streakfly provides a propulsive ride courtesy of its carbon fiber plate.
Key Features:
- Carbon fiber plate for snappy toe-off
- ZoomX foam midsole for energy return
- Minimal, lightweight upper
- Low-to-ground feel for stability
Best For: Speedwork, racing 5K to marathon
Ideal for neutral runners with an efficient gait, the Streakfly offers a firm ride designed to pick up the pace. Testers found the shoe felt fast right out of the box with its light feel and snappy response.
While best for experienced runners during intense training, the lightweight Streakfly allows you to turn on the jets when aiming for a PR. The breathable mesh upper ensures plenty of airflow when racing.
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14. Nike Air Zoom Wildhorse 7
Ready to conquer trails, the Nike Air Zoom Wildhorse 7 provides a supportive ride across varied terrain.
Key Features:
- Multi-directional lugged outsole for traction
- Rock plate and Zoom Air unit protect foot
- Quicklace system for snug midfoot lockdown
- Durable upper materials
Best For: Off-road running, obstacle course racing, trails
Equipped with a rugged yet responsive build, the Wildhorse can tackle tough trails while keeping feet cushioned from roots and rocks. The raised lugs grip loose dirt for conquering inclines and declines with ease.
Testers found the Wildhorse provided a lively, well-protected ride over long distances. The midfoot webbing system ensures a secure fit so feet stay stable when navigating unpredictable terrain.
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15. Nike Air Zoom SuperRep 2
The Nike Air Zoom SuperRep 2 training shoe provides lateral support and quickness for high-intensity workouts.
Key Features:
- Zoom Air unit for energy return
- Supportive strap keeps foot locked in
- Burpee break for flexibility
- Durable rubber in high-wear zones
Best For: HIIT classes, CrossFit, boot camp-style workouts
Designed for training beyond just running, the SuperRep 2 stands up to jumps, sprints, and weightlifting. A wide platform provides stability for lateral moves while the Zoom Air unit cushions repetitive impacts.
The midfoot strap offers a feeling of lockdown support during intense changes of direction. Testers appreciated the flexibility for burpees and planks while still feeling fast for sprints. The SuperRep keeps up with whatever your workout throws its way.
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Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the right Nike running shoe, considering your foot type, running goals, and training plan will help you select the best option. Daily trainers, long-distance racers, trail runners, and speed shoes, Nike has engineered models to match diverse needs.
Testing out shoes to find the right fit for your foot and comfort preferences is also key. Nike utilizes cutting edge technology like Zoom Air units and carbon fiber plates along with everyday foams to give different shoes distinct characteristics.
From the highly cushioned Vomero to the natural Free RN, Nike offers options across the spectrum. No matter your mileage or pace, Nike has created technologies and designs to help unleash your potential.
So explore Nike’s array of models to discover your ideal companion for everything from marathon training to casual jogging. With consistent innovation and performance-driven features, Nike running shoes give you the tools to run your best.
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