We’ve tested countless Nike running shoes over the years, and somehow, we always find ourselves coming back to a few tried and true models (now with updated versions we love just as much). Here, you’ll find honest Nike running shoe reviews from a team of testers representing every part of the pack.
Nike’s story started with University of Oregon track coach Bill Bowerman and his athlete Phil Knight. What began as a running shoe company has grown into one of the most recognizable athletic brands in the world, but running remains at its core.
Our team of testers has put these shoes through their paces, testing them across various terrains, distances, and conditions to bring you an unbiased and insightful review.
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner aiming for a new personal best, an overpronator seeking stability and support, or an adventure-seeking trail runner, Nike has a shoe tailored just for you. But choosing the perfect pair is no simple feat, as individual preferences and biomechanics play a crucial role in the decision-making process.
In this guide, we’ll break down what makes Nike stand out in 2025 and highlight the top-performing models to fit every type of runner.
What Sets Nike Apart?
Nike has been around since 1954, starting with their very first shoe, a racing flat. Fast forward to 2025, and their lineup has evolved significantly.
Most recently, Nike revamped their road running collection, organizing it into three clear categories centered around one key factor, cushioning.
It’s a change that shows the brand has been listening to what runners actually want. But with so many models, and sometimes confusingly similar names, it can still be tough to figure out which shoe is right for you.
To make things easier, Nike has now created three main categories, each offering a different level of cushion, technology, and price point:
Vomero: max cushioning for plush comfort over long miles and on days you just want a little extra comfort
Pegasus: responsive cushioning that delivers the most energy return for when you want a pop
Structure: supportive cushioning for added stability
To simplify it even more, each category now has an “icon” model anchor that represents its feel and purpose. Think of it like the Goldilocks story, each shoe offers just a bit more (or less) cushion and technology to help you find the one that feels just right.
Instead of standing in the middle of a running store or endlessly scrolling online, wondering which pair will work best, you can now start with the category that fits your needs and goals.
If you’re logging long, easy miles and want comfort and support, check out the Vomero category. Looking to pick up the pace? The Pegasus models are your go-to. And when you need a little extra guidance or stability, you’ll want to look toward the structure line up.
You’ll see a few of these categories below, in addition to some of their carbon-plated running shoes that you see a lot of folks using for faster workouts and race day.
Features of Nike running shoes to be aware of:
More narrow fit, especially in the heel and midsole
Tend to run smaller in width and length than many other brands
A larger focus on the newest and trendiest technology to “improve running economy”
Known across a wide variety of sports and highly visible in competition
Has a large brand loyal following
7 Best Nike Running Shoes
For many years, Coach Amanda was not a fan of Nike, but about 5 years ago, she discovered a Nike shoe that has become one of her go-to shoes. She’s had 8 pairs now; you’ll see it listed in the comparisons.
Whatever your needs, there’s a chance Nike has a shoe for you to consider as a great option, and we’re here to break down the 7 we think are the absolute best in 2025.
Let’s dive into the list of the best Nike running shoes!
Best Cushioned Shoe – Vomero 18
This year Nike moved to a new naming system, with the Vomero being their max cushion option. Overall, we find it to be great for middle of the pack and back, and one that lets you enjoy your easy days and long runs.
The Vomero 18 has one of the tallest max cushioned running shoes we’ve tested, at 46mm. But even with the max cushion, it doesn’t feel heavy or clunky, so it shouldn’t hinder you on longer run days.
Nike combined different types of foam to offer both comfort and durability. The top layer is ZoomX foam made from PEBA, making it light with higher energy return. Underneath is their ReactX foam, which is slightly firmer and more responsive.
The combination makes these shoes really idea for long days, because they seem to return energy while remaining soft underfoot.
Nike is not known for being super accommodating for wide feet and these are no different. The TPU foam holds up to wear and tear, though, and these are designed to take you through marathon mileage.
That said, they’re not a shoe for tempos or any type of speed workout.
And listen – even though looks shouldn’t matter, they do to most of us. So, it’s definitely a bonus that we really love the way the Vomero 18 looks in the heel and overall color.
The Pegasus has long been a favorite of runners everywhere, but that doesn’t mean Nike is resting on its laurels. Instead, they continue to improve and innovate with every new model, making the Pegasus 41 softer and with better energy return than previous models.
That said, these shoes aren’t designed to be super plush, and will therefore hold up really well over time and miles.
Overall, it’s a versatile shoe that can pick up the pace or carry you through marathon training distances.
The Pegasus 41 has a full ReactX foam midsole, which is just supportive enough, just soft enough, and feels really good underfoot on a daily basis. These shoes are said to provide 13% more energy return, which is good news all the way around.
The firm heel counter keeps your foot locked in place, and the molded foam insole provides extra support as you pack on the miles. All the while, the Pegasus 41 is durable, and won’t need to be replaced anytime soon after purchase due to wear and tear.
Best for Standing for Long Hours- Vomero Plus
We’ve talked about the Vomero 18, but the Vomero Plus has a bit of a different feel to offer.
First off, they do have a wide option, which is nice for many of us, and the durable max cushioning and high-abrasion rubber outsole combine to make these a good choice for heavier runners.
Nike worked with Olympic runners Connor Mantz and others to design these shoes, and believe they offer a premier experience for both training and recover.
The Vomero Plus’s midsole is all ZoomX, and its softness really shine through. The shoe is still light, but the jury is out when it comes to endurance.
Its midsole also has a pronounced rocker design and a wider base that adds both stability and a smooth ride.
We’ve tried these on road runs, on the treadmill, the track, and even in some rain, and they came through no matter the environment. They transition well from easy warmups to speed runs, too, and have a good pop considering how cushioned they are.
These are definitely a shoe you can take from workouts to errands and back again without having to think about what’s on your feet.
This model of a favorite stability shoe has some great updates based on real runner feedback, and is likely to make many people happier overall.
The Structure is the core model, and Nike will offer Plus and Premium models as well. It’s a daily trainer that focuses more on support than cushion, especially in the arch to aid with pronation issues.
We found the shoe to be well thought out and designed, with just enough cushion and stability that’s not overbearing. If you are more of a neutral runner and don’t struggle with overpronation, there is a chance this support might feel like a bit much.
Nike is no longer using rigid posts for support, having replaced it with its Midfoot Support System. This wraps the foot in the lateral rear heel and the medial midfoot. If you need the support, this should feel like gentle guidance that’s needed considering the 38mm stack height.
The outsole adds more stability, with a blown rubber forefoot for grip and high-abrasion rubber in the heel to add durability.
The sole is full-length ReactX, adding more durability and just the right amount of cushioning. A super padded tongue and collar add both comfort and security as well.
The Structure isn’t the fastest shoe, but it feels good for longer miles and the drop could help runners who need ankle support as well.
Best Fast Marathon Shoe- Alphafly 3
The Nike Alphafly has made headlines as runners achieving world records laced them up for historic runs.
These shoes are game-changers on race day, with an incredible bounce that doesn’t reduce its stability. The ZoomX foam is a favorite and next level, the Atomknit mesh upper is super thin, the arch is supportive, and the full carbon plate gives you that extra pop when you need it.
Nike also managed to drop 15% of the weight in this newest version without losing any cushion, both of which are huge improvements.
The combination of the ZoomX foam, the Zoom Air units, and the longer, wider carbon plate make the Alphafly 3 super advanced, technologically, and Nike is banking on the fact that elite runners will want that extra push on race day.
The Zoom Air pods are a key feature designed to provide responsive cushioning and energy return. They’re made from thin fibers that compress and then bounce back, giving a little spring to every stride.
Their placement in the forefoot is intended to promote a more natural and efficient gait. The harder outsole pieces beneath them and reduced padding above really lets you feel the spring off the ground.
The carbon plate is embedded in the shoe’s sole and is designed to act like a springboard, propelling you forward with each stride.
Nike also claims it reduces the amount of energy lost in each stride, resulting in an average 4% improvement in performance.
There were some complaints with the previous model about struggles while putting it on, and though the toebox on this one is just a smidge bigger, a little heel tug is all it took for us.
The Alphafly has a sock-like fit and no movable tongue, and some light padding on the heel.
Though some have struggled with blisters related to the arch fit, we didn’t experience that trouble. The arch support is an intentional bit of design, and though it feels noticeably weird at first, the sensation goes away once you start running.
Best 5k To Half Marathon Shoe- Vaporfly 4
Perhaps the most surprising thing about these shoes is how good they feel right out of the box. They’re super light and responsive, and for us, made race day seem too far away.
If you’re running your next even with a personal record in mind, these could give you the extra pop that you need to keep pushing across the finish line.
The ZoomX foam is a favorite for a reason, and their improved Flyplate has a more aggressive curve designed to maximize leverage from your foot and ankle. It’s a stable platform, especially through the toe-off.
On the downside, no updates have been made to the outsole, so it seems like durability remains a bit of a concern.
This is a light, stylish, fast shoe, but not one meant for those with wide feet or other support concerns.
The Vaporfly’s heel is lightly padded and doesn’t add any bulk. That said, it’s still secure enough for me to avoid blisters. It’s still easy to feel the ground, even with the full-length ZoomX foam, which most runners will enjoy.
This version reduces the heel stack from 40mm to 36mm, which lets us feel the bounce and cushion but still turns over quickly.
Runners who like a super lightweight, responsive feel and don’t mind a more snug, race-day fit will love the Vaporfly 4.
Best Trail Running Shoe- Wildhorse 10
Nike is really making a push into the trail shoe space with their updated Wildhorse, which is built well for mid- to long-distance trail runs and technical terratin.
The upper has been redesigned with engineered mesh that’s breathable and an ankle collar that boasts improved debris protection.
The outsole is also a step up, and the ReactX foam midsole gives the whole shoe a responsive feel. It also reduces impact fatigue when your runs stretch longer.
The Trail ATC outsole performs well on dry dirt, gravel, and slick patches. The lug pattern offers a solid grip, but probably wouldn’t be the best choice when tackling mud or looser terrain.
Overall, if you’ve got average to slightly wide feet and run on moderate to rolling terrain, these are a really good cushioned trail option.
The downside here would be reduced ground feel, which can cause runners to feel less stable on slick or steep surfaces. The flip side of that coin, of course, is that your foot won’t take the brunt of the rocks or roots, either, so this is a good choice for runs where comfort trumps speed.
There you have it! A breakdown of the best Nike running shoes. As you can see ,Nike offers a variety of running shoes designed for different types of runners and running styles.
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