How We Test
We aggregate millions of product reviews, scour other websites for their professional opinions - then we test the products ourselves. We do not accept free products from manufacturers, and our only goal is to give you the best recommendations possible. However, if you buy from the links on this page, we may earn a small commission.
- Best Probiotics - September 1, 2024
- Best Keto Snacks - September 1, 2024
- Instant Pot® Keto Birthday Cake - September 1, 2024
Nike has been the market leader in running shoes for a few decades – and for good reason. They make stylish, durable, and reliable shoes. However, since they have so many different models, it can be difficult to determine what are actually the best Nike running shoes.
Luckily for you, we’ve made this search much easier, and done the research. After wearing many different pairs, and aggregating tens of thousands of online reviews – we can confidently recommended the best Nike running shoes. Here are our top picks.
Our Top Pick
Nike Men’s Revolution 4
With over 1,500 glowing online reviews, the Revolution 4 is our top pick for best Nike running shoe. It’s affordable, sleek, lightweight, and provides plenty of cushioning. It offers just the right mix of lightness and padding, and has a classic design, to boot. Highly recommended.
Other Great Picks
Nike Men’s Free Rn Sense
With over 800 positive online reviews, the Free Rn Sense is a perfect running shoe. They are – of course – also great for walking, and are extremely lightweight. Definitely recommended.
Nike Men’s Air Max Torch 4
The Air Max Torch 4 may have our favorite design, of any Nike running shoe. With a sleek look, cool air bubble – and a staggering 780+ positive reviews – they are definitely a winner. Many reviewers have noted how long they last, and how they’re even great for other activities, like basketball. Definitely recommended.
Nike Women’s Revolution 4
The women’s Revolution 4 has over 460 positive online reviews, and still has a near-perfect score. Much like the men’s version, these are lightweight, comfy, and provide plenty of padding. Definitely recommended for the experience runner, or for anyone who just wants a very high quality pair of kicks.
Nike Men’s Roshe Run
With over 550 glowing online reviews, the Roshe Run is one of the best pairs of Nike running shoes on the market. Our staff likes the classic black and white color combo, but there are 24 different color options to choose from. The red is very stylish, and the shoe itself wears perfectly. Definitely recommended.
Nike Men’s Air Zoom Pegasus 35
The Air Zoom Pegasus 35 is one of the most stylish designs on the market, and we absolutely love the orange-red color. There are a plethora of great color combinations though, and with over 200 positive online reviews, the free market has definitely made them a winner. Highly recommended.
Air Max 270 ‘Just Do It’
The Air Max 270 has a sleek design, and even better performance. Our staff liked the snug fit, and the design is definitely eye-catching. With over 200+ positive online reviews, they are a perfect running shoe, and also work great for basketball.
Nike Men’s Tanjun
With a whopping 900 positive reviews (and still a near-perfect score) – the Tanjun comes highly recommended. We loved the minimal look of these shoes while we wearing them, and the fabric felt clean and sleek. A great pick.
Nike Women’s Air Max
The classic Air Max is a perfect women’s running shoe, and the purple color was our staff’s favorite shade. With over 115 sterling online reviews, the Air Max rarely meets a customer that isn’t satisfied. One of the top choices for women.
Nike Air Max Torch 3
The Air Max Torch 3 has over 500 glowing online reviews, and has one of the sleekest designs we’ve ever seen. We loved the fit, and also thought these had just the right amount of padding for a run. Definitely recommended.
How We Test
We test every product we review, and in the case of these Nike running shoes, we logged lots of miles. Indoor, outdoor, track – we tried them out on every surface. We also compiled and aggregated tens of thousands of online reviews.
There are endless pairs of running shoes out there, but we wanted to find the absolute best choices. Nike is a well-known brand, so we were less hesitant about any quality issues. However, we still put each pair through rigorous testing, as that is what real-world running consists of.
We took into account the following variables: comfort, fit, durability, performance, and ride. We also considered other factors, such as: flexibility, sole thickness, cushioning, and the weight of the shoes. Ultimately, we only recommend products we stand behind, so you can feel secure that these are the best Nike running shoes on the market.
Does A Shoe’s Weight Matter?
While you may not think of it often, the weight of a shoe can have a big difference – especially in terms of performance and stamina. As you might have guess, a heavier shoe means expending more energy. While this may not make much of a difference for a short run – it can definitely impact longer runs.
However, a heavier shoe usually has more cushioning – which will also make a difference for a longer run. Lighter shoes are most often made with less cushioning – which may make them feel faster, and will also cause you to expend less overall energy.
Cushioning For Running Shoes
Cushioning can make a huge different for running shoes, as you want to avoid injuries, as well as putting too much long-term stress on your knees. Typically, we recommend running shoes with more cushioning, since you will be able to run longer distances more comfortably, as well as more safely.
Running Shoe Drop
A shoe’s drop may not be a term you are familiar with, but it simply refers to the amount of space between the forefront and heel measurements. It may be easier to think of this as how much your toes drop below your heels.
This difference is actually fairly important, because if you have a large drop, there will be more heel striking. Common drop measurements range from 6mm to 12mm. Some minimalist shoes have zero drop, which is a fairly new innovation.
Arch Support
You may know about arch support, since it’s a fairly common shoe term. You should understand your gait and running style, before digging too much into arch support. The three most common gaits are: neutral, overpronated, and underpronated.
If you get the wrong pair of running shoes, you can be very uncomfortable – or even get injured. For running any distance (but especially long distances) – arch support is crucially important. It is even more important, if you wish to correct your gait.
Neutral Running Shoes
A neutral gait is the best place to be starting from, as it means your body is more aligned, and ready to run on a regular basis. You can choose a neutral running shoe if this is your gait, as you will have a more flexible heel-to-toe transition.
Neutral running shoes also have slightly less cushioning, so they may not be the best pick if you are looking for lots of support. If you have supination, neutral running shoes may also be a good choice.
Stability Running Shoes
If you have low arches, stability shoes are a great choice. Overpronated feet can tend to roll inward, but stability shoes can help to correct this.
In addition, stability shoes often have removable footbeds, which can accommodate orthotics. If your arch support is lacking, orthotic inserts may be customized, to specifically accommodate your own unique running mechanics.
Motion Control Running Shoes
If you really need to correct your gait, motion control running shoes may be the best option. These shoes are designed to specifically limit your motion, which can be a result of overpronation.
If you have flat feet, motion control shoes can be beneficial. Flat feet may excessively rotate, and the thicker midsole found in motion control shoes can help eliminate this issue. Motion control shoes can also have orthotics added to them.
Different Uses For Running Shoes
Some people like to sport running shoes for casual use, but if you’re a serious runner, your needs are much different.
Training Shoes
Training shoes are not too different from competition shoes. However, they will correct your gait more, as well as provide extra protection. If you are a beginner to running, training shoes may be an excellent choice.
If you are looking to do speed workouts, lighter running shoes will be preferable. Heavier running shoes can be ideal for gym and sports, as they will provide extra cushioning. If you are looking to run long distances, heavier shoes may also be a better choice, since they provide more support.
Competition Shoes
Competition shoes (sometimes referred to as racing flats), are designed solely for speed. Competition shoes will be lighter and more minimal than training shoes, so as to not slow you down.
Competition shoes will also often be form-fitting. However, it should be noted that competition shoes only make up a small percentage of the running shoe market. Most runners are not competing, they are looking to train, or simply stay in shape.
You can also use competition shoes to beat your own training records, but they can’t be used for anything casual, as they won’t provide much support. Competition shoes also provide the closest thing to a barefoot running experience.
Versatile Shoes
If you are looking for a compromise between training shoes and competition shoes, versatile shoes may be the answer. These shoes compromise on all fronts – not the lightest or the heaviest, not the most supportive or the least, and landing somewhere in the middle for gait correction.
However, they do allow you to get comfortable with a shoe before an event, which may be crucial for some runners.
Special Types Of Running Shoes
There are a variety of other types of running shoes, which all tend to have specialty purposes.
Barefoot Running Shoes
Imagine the most minimal shoes possible – that’s what barefoot running shoes are like. Barely different than just using your own feet, these shoes are extremely light, and provide no support. However, since there is still technically a shoe separating your foot from the ground, you won’t have any issues with your feet getting dirty.
Barefoot running shoes are also not strictly limited to just running. They can be used for all kinds of other activities, and will go a long way to improving your posture.
Triathlon Shoes
Triathlon shoes are specially made, as they must withstand the rigors of biking and running. They are also stable, versatile, and durable. If you are not competing in triathlons, however – these shoes are not usually the best choice.
Waterproof Shoes
If you live in a rainy climate, you may want to invest in a pair of waterproof running shoes. Waterproof shoes do also tend to be heavier and bulkier, to accommodate for the extra layers of insulation.
What Are The Best Running Shoes For Beginners?
If you are a beginner, look for a running shoe that is lightweight, flexible, and cushioned. This will provide you with just the right elements for starting your running journey. You will also want to make sure the shoe has a good fit.
Ultimately, do not overthink it too much – just getting into the habit of running every day is a big step forward. Once you are a more experienced runner, you can start to think about incorporating other features.
How Long Do Running Shoes Last?
There is no exact formula to determine how long running shoes will last. How often you run, how much you weigh, and your running style can all factor in.
Another factor to consider, is which type of shoe you own. Lighter, more minimal shoes may only last 300 miles, while more durable shoes can last up to 500 miles.
Can Running Shoes Hurt Your Knees?
Yes, getting the wrong pair of shoes may impact the health of your knees. You may also experience hip pain and other injuries, if you purchase the wrong pair of shoes.
It is crucial to determine your foot shape and running style, before you make a purchasing decision. You do not want to incur an injury, by simply buying the wrong pair of shoes.
Do I Need To Break In Running Shoes?
Yes, it’s generally a good idea to break in a new pair of running shoes. This can be done by walking in them for a while, as well as running only short distances.
Once the shoes are broken in, you will be able to tell the difference. If you experience any continued discomfort, be sure to return the shoes.
The Best Nike Running Shoes
There you have it – our top picks for the best Nike running shoes. There are lots of options out there in the footwear market, so be sure and check out our other fitness and fashion product reviews.