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Nike’s extensive running shoe line-up has comfortable, supportive options for all types of preferences and needs, including pairs for training, sprinting, distance racing, trail running, and more. Even better, Nike running shoes feature the brand’s sleek, cool style, and many of them are versatile enough to be worn with casual wear, including leggings, sweats, and athletic skorts.
To find the best Nike running shoes, we spoke with several podiatrists to learn more about what key features to look for in a high-quality pair. Then, we tested 11 pairs in The Verywell Testing Lab and at home, running over 527 miles on treadmills, trails, concrete, gravel, and more. We evaluated each pair’s fit, comfort, stability, cushioning, responsiveness, and value to find the top options on the market. We also had a certified running coach from our Review Board review this article, ensuring it offers the most effective guidance on shopping for and testing running shoes.
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Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 6-15 (medium, wide, extra-wide), Women’s 5-12 (medium, wide, extra-wide) | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum | Weight: Men’s 11.1 ounces, Women’s 9.9 ounces | Drop: 9 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They’re For
Best for those who want a highly cushioned, supportive, and stylish shoe for running or walking.
Why We Love Them
Nike’s InfinityRN 4 Shoe takes our best overall spot thanks to its outstanding comfort, responsiveness, and versatility. When testing this pair on various terrains, we were impressed with its pillow-like cushioning and exceptional shock absorption, especially in the heel area. Our feet, ankles, and knees feel well-supported and protected from impact as we run on treadmills, concrete, a boardwalk, and a park’s uneven path.
We appreciate its soft, breathable upper and loved that it conformed to our feet, allowing for a snug, comfortable fit. Its rocker-shaped sole, along with its springy cushioning, helped propel us forward, allowing for a smooth gait. We felt like every step had a surprising pop, and our feet and legs felt less fatigued after running. With reliable support and comfort, these shoes are great for longer runs, walks, or even as an all-day casual shoe.
Also available in women’s sizes at Nike, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Fleet Feet.
Potential Flaws
- This shoe’s upper feels lightweight, flexible, and breathable, but it’s better suited for warm weather, not cold conditions.
Meet Our Testers
One of our testers runs five to six miles a few times weekly, usually on paved roads or a boardwalk. He occasionally feels ankle or knee pain the day after a run. Our other tester is a beginner runner who runs at least once weekly and sometimes feels knee pain after her treadmill runs. Both testers agree that this shoe helped them avoid post-run pain, thanks to its plush feel and effective shock absorption.
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Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-12 (medium, extra-wide), Men’s 6-15 (medium, extra-wide) | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Weight: Women’s 8.8 ounces, Men’s 10.4 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They’re For
Best for neutral runners who need a comfy, responsive road running shoe that also works for treadmill and gym workouts.
Why We Love Them
Nike’s Pegasus 41 Sneaker is known for its outstanding comfort and responsiveness—making it an ideal choice for road runners. When we tested a previous version of this pair, we found them extremely plush yet supportive underfoot. We liked how the shoe’s foam padding, especially in the heel, felt responsive and helped absorb shock as our feet hit concrete and asphalt streets. The extra cushioning around the ankle enhanced our overall stability without causing uncomfortable blisters or irritation.
Sleek and streamlined, this shoe didn’t weigh us down, even when wearing it for long 10-mile runs. Its tapered rearfoot and deep heel cup keep our feet locked in, while the waffle-inspired outsole offers great traction on uneven roads. Plus, its light, stretchy mesh upper conformed to our feet and allowed air to circulate, keeping our feet cool and fresh, even during our long-distance runs.
Also available in men’s sizes at Nike and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Potential Flaws
- We love that this pair comes in extra-wide sizes for those who prefer a roomier toe box, but, compared to the medium-width sizes, its colors are very limited.
- This shoe is recommended for neutral runners, so those with flat or very high arches may find the arch support lacking.
Meet Our Testers
One of our testers runs three to four times weekly on roads, sidewalks, or a track. Our other tester runs outdoors for longer distances a few times a week and occasionally feels pain in her hips or knees during runs, although she had no issues when wearing these shoes. Both testers agree that this shoe comfortably conforms to their feet and that its upper is breathable, comfy, lightweight, and stretchy.
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Excellent shock absorption
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Thick, supportive cushioning
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Soft, breathable upper
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-12 (medium, extra-wide), Men’s 6-15 (medium, extra-wide) | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum | Weight: Women’s 9.1 ounces, Men’s 10.9 ounces | Drop: 9 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Who They’re For
Best for those who need a well-cushioned running shoe with some stability to help prevent knee and other joint pain.
Why We Love Them
Nike’s Invincible 3 Running Shoe is a solid pick for runners with a history of knee pain who need good impact protection and stability to help avoid injury. During test runs on our treadmill and outdoors, we immediately noticed this shoe’s supportive cushioning, which conforms comfortably to the shape of our feet for a custom-like fit and feel. Its firm foam midsole helps absorb shock and keeps our knees and other joints well-protected, especially when we run on sidewalks and roads.
We love its impressive responsiveness, which allows for easy transitions and a springy, efficient stride. We also appreciate that its cushion prevents excess movement, which may help reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, its wide sole helps us feel even more stable as we run. We also like its comfy, soft, and breathable upper, which facilitates good airflow to prevent overheating.
Also available in men’s sizes at Nike, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Fleet Feet.
Potential Flaws
- This shoe’s fit isn’t ideal for everyone, with one of our testers reporting irritation in the ankle area due to its low collar. This issue may be remedied by wearing thicker calf socks.
Meet Our Testers
One of our testers runs a few times each week on asphalt and concrete, while the other runs on the treadmill once or twice a week. Both runners tend to feel some minor knee soreness during or after running. They noted that this shoe’s impressive, shock-absorbing cushioning helped ward off any pain and comfortably supported their arches.
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Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-12, Men’s 6-15 | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Weight: Women’s 8.9 ounces, Men’s 10.5 ounces | Drop: 9.5 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They’re For
Best for trail runners who want a running shoe that can go from the road to the trails and easily handle wet weather conditions.
Why We Love Them
Nike’s Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX Running Shoes are grippy and supportive for running on trails and offer a comfortable, responsive ride. During test runs wearing a previous version, the shoe’s durable, waterproof upper kept our feet dry as we ran through puddles, while the grippy rubber outsole provided excellent traction on slippery and uneven terrain. Its raised, flexible ankle cuff added support and comfort while keeping out debris as we tackled dirt, gravel, and crushed limestone trails.
Its plush, full-length cushioning feels supportive and responsive, making it a good option for long-distance trail runs. We also like that its upper is very breathable, which is not always the case with waterproof trail running shoes. Even with its substantial support and waterproof protection, it feels lightweight and flexible—making it a great alternative to bulkier hiking boots.
Also available in men’s sizes at Nike and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Potential Flaws
- While this shoe is ideal for light trails or road running, its traction isn’t aggressive enough to handle more technical trails.
- During testing, we noticed that it runs slightly small, so you may want to consider sizing up.
Meet Our Testers
One of our testers has a past foot injury, so she needs a supportive, comfortable running shoe. She runs 25 to 35 miles weekly on paved roads, gravel paths, and dirt and crushed limestone trails. Our other tester runs two to three times a week and has a history of knee pain, but didn’t have any issues when running in this pair. Both testers agree that this shoe’s heel is incredibly comfy and cradles their feet well and that its cushioning provides excellent shock absorption.
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Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-12 (medium, extra-wide), Men’s 6-15 (medium, extra-wide) | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Weight: Women’s 9.3 ounces, Men’s 11.4 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Who They’re For
Best for runners and walkers with wide feet who want very supportive sneakers that absorb shock well.
Why We Love Them
With a roomy toe box and stretchy upper material, Nike’s Structure 25 Sneaker stands out as a great pick for runners with wide feet. Plus, it also comes in wide sizes if you need extra space due to a bunion (a painful bump that forms on the joint of your big toe) or experience any balance issues. When testing this pair on a treadmill, concrete, and asphalt, we found they offered excellent stability, with strategically placed cushioning in the arch area and a structured heel collar to help prevent excess movement.
This shoe’s cushioning delivers the reliable shock absorption and impact protection runners need for long distances. Plus, its breathable mesh upper provides a secure, comfy fit, and the soft material helps keep blisters away. With their sleek style, they’re versatile and, like many Nike shoes, we found them comfortable enough for all-day wear.
Also available in men’s sizes at Nike, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Fleet Feet.
Potential Flaws
- We like the upper’s breathable, lightweight material for running in warm weather, but our feet felt a bit cold when running in cold conditions.
- Although we liked this pair’s support, we noticed during testing that it didn’t feel as springy as some other Nike options on our list.
Meet Our Testers
Both of our testers run two to three times a week on paved roads, concrete, or on the treadmill. Although they both had some previous knee pain during or after running, they were pleased they didn’t feel any discomfort when running in these shoes and agree that they’re well-cushioned, comfy, and supportive.
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Wide, supportive heel
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Very breathable
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Good ankle support
Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 6-16.5, Women’s 5-15 | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum | Weight: Men’s 11.2 ounces, Women’s 9.7 ounces | Drop: 7.2 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Who They’re For
Best for those who want an all-in-one gym shoe that’s suitable for lifting, HIIT, classes, and light runs.
Why We Love Them
With the right combination of support and flexibility, Nike’s Free Metcon 6 Sneaker is a solid all-around gym shoe for cross-training workouts. When we tested a previous version of this sneaker, we found it extremely comfortable and stable for everything from strength training and HIIT classes to cardio workouts on an indoor cycling bike, rowing machine, and treadmill. We appreciate its wide, supportive heel, which provides tremendous stability and a solid base for activities like lifting and squatting.
Its soft foam midsole and stretchy upper provide comfort and flexibility when we jump rope or do box jumps. Plus, its plush, supportive ankle collar helps keep us more agile and confident during workouts that require pivoting or quick movements. We are also impressed with its breathable, lightweight upper, which keeps our feet cool during sweaty gym workouts.
Also available in women’s sizes at Nike and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Potential Flaws
- This shoe’s lightweight, flexible design is best suited for gym workouts and light runs and isn’t a great option for long runs or speedwork.
- When testing this shoe, we noticed that the heel tab rubbed uncomfortably against our skin. However, we were able to prevent further irritation by wearing higher socks.
Meet Our Testers
One of our testers runs 30 to 40 miles a week. He also likes to perform strengthening, rowing, and cycling workouts at the gym. Our other tester, who has a history of plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes), found this shoe ideal for HIIT and other studio classes. Both testers were impressed with this shoe’s exceptional stability and support for cross-training activities.
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Responsive cushioning
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Very durable
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Thick, sturdy outsole
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-12 (medium, extra-wide), Men’s 6-15 (medium, extra-wide) | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum | Weight: Women’s 8.5 ounces, Men’s 10.5 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.7
Who They’re For
Best for neutral runners looking for a reliable, well-cushioned trainer that’s durable, supportive, and can handle high-mileage runs and walks.
Why We Love Them
Featuring plush cushioning and durable materials, Nike’s Vomero 17 Sneaker is ideal for high-mileage road running. During test runs on concrete, we loved how its thick, cushioned sole gave us a ton of support and stability, especially on uneven ground. With its springy design, we loved the strong energy return we felt every time our foot landed. Its cushioned tongue and soft, stretchy laces provided a snug, comfortable fit.
This shoe’s outsole is thick rubber with a waffle-inspired pattern, providing sturdy traction that can handle wet conditions and even light trails. We love it as an everyday trainer that offers good impact protection for your knees and other joints. We also found it very comfortable for long-distance walking, and think it would work especially well for those who like to include some run/walk intervals in their training.
Also available in men’s sizes at Nike, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Fleet Feet.
Potential Flaws
- This shoe’s upper material is not very breathable, which may be an issue if your feet tend to sweat a lot.
- Its toe box is narrow, but it’s available in wide sizes for those who need more space up front.
Meet Our Testers
Our tester is a fitness walker and runner with narrow feet. She found this shoe ideal for long-distance walking and short runs, as well as running errands. She was impressed with this shoe’s support, lightweight feel, and responsiveness, especially noting how bouncy and springy it feels.
What to Look for When Shopping for Nike Running Shoes
- Running Style: Make sure your shoes are designed for your running gait. If you tend to overpronate (when the arches of your feet flatten too much during movement), you’ll want one of Nike’s stability shoes. These help prevent excessive motion and are designed to correct your stride and keep you steady. Most runners can wear a neutral running shoe, which doesn’t have any motion control features. Experts at a specialty running store can help you determine your gait type and find the right pair.
- Terrain: What surfaces do you typically run on? If you’re a treadmill runner, you’ll want a running shoe that’s lightweight, breathable, and responsive. Those who primarily run on roads or sidewalks need a sneaker that’s flexible and well-cushioned, according to podiatrist Michelle Castiello, DPM. For trail running, Nike has shoes with grippy outsoles for better traction on rough terrain and thicker, more durable materials for better protection.
- Training Goals: Are you looking for a daily trainer for easy runs, a cushy shoe for distance workouts, or a fast shoe for racing? A racing shoe will have thinner, firmer cushioning and lighter materials, while those for distance running will have thicker, more impact-resistance foam. Nike has a wide array of shoes, so considering your training goals and habits can help you narrow down your options.
- Personal Preferences: Do you like a plush feel or firm cushioning? Do you prefer a sleek, streamlined shoe or one that’s wider and more substantial and rugged-looking? Do you need a narrow fit, or do you want more room in the toe box? Nike’s collection includes running shoes of varying weights, widths, and styles, so you can find a pair that best suits your tastes and preferences.
How We Tested the Nike Running Shoes
To find the best Nike running shoes, we tested 11 pairs in our Lab and at home, running over 527 miles on treadmills and outdoors on varying terrain. When testing Nike running shoes, we evaluate each pair based on the following key criteria.
- Fit: When we first try the shoes on, we make sure there’s enough space in the toe box. Do we notice any tingling or numbness in our toes? We also check for a secure, supportive fit around our midfoot and heel. During test runs, do we feel our feet sliding around in the shoe? We use these assessments to determine whether the sneaker runs wide, narrow, or true to size.
- Cushioning: During test runs, we pay attention to how the shoe’s cushioning feels and performs. Is the midsole pillow-like or firm? How well does the cushioning absorb impact? We also note whether our knees and other joints hurt more or less than they normally do during runs.
- Comfort: We consider if the shoes feel comfortable during test runs and when wearing them for long periods of time. Is the upper breathable, or do our feet feel trapped and overheated? We also note if we experience any numbness, irritation, blisters, or other discomfort.
- Responsiveness: During test runs, we assess whether the shoe feels springy and is effective at propelling us to the next stride. We also note whether our legs feel fresh or fatigued at the end of a run. At the end of the testing period, we check to see if the cushioning still feels bouncy or has flattened out at all.
- Stability: During testing, we run on different surfaces, such as asphalt, concrete, treadmills, and trails, and note how supported our feet, ankles, and knees feel. Does the shoe help stabilize our gait? Does the shoe provide adequate shock absorption?
- Value: After testing the Nike running shoes and evaluating them in all other key categories, we check their price. Based on the shoe’s performance, do we think it’s priced fairly? Would we only buy it at a discounted price? We also consider if we would recommend the sneaker to a friend or family member.
Our Experts
We consulted podiatrists at each stage of our research, testing, and reporting process. The following experts helped us understand what key features to look for when shopping for Nike running shoes. We choose products independently, although we use input from experts to influence our choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you replace your running shoes?
You should replace your running shoes after 300 to 500 miles or six months of use, depending on numerous factors such as your running surfaces, weight, and running gait. Be sure to check your running shoes for signs of wear so you know when it’s time to retire them.
Can I use Nike running shoes for other activities like walking or cross-training?
Most Nike running shoes are supportive and comfortable enough to wear for walking and cross-training. However, if your cross-training activities include a lot of quick, lateral movements or heavy lifting, you may be better off in a more stable shoe that’s designed for those types of workouts.
Are there Nike running shoes specifically designed for wide or narrow feet?
Nike shoes are known for having a narrow fit. However, the brand has several different running shoes that come in wider sizes.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Christine Luff, ACE-CPT is a Verywell Fit writer with more than 20 years of experience writing and editing health and fitness content. As a certified personal trainer, running coach, and avid runner, she’s constantly researching and testing running shoes. She has run thousands of miles in Nike shoes. For trail running, her current favorite is Nike’s Pegasus Trail 5 Running Shoe.