Nike is one of the most iconic athletic brands in the world, and nowhere is its influence more visible than in running. For decades, Nike has shaped the sport by blending performance innovation with bold, often trend-setting design. First introduced in 2017 and worn by Eliud Kipchoge during Nike's Breaking2 marathon project, the Nike Zoom Vaporfly Elite marked the beginning of the super shoe era: carbon-plated racers with premium foams built for efficiency. It kicked off an arms race in racing shoe tech that still defines the market today. While Nike once led the pack with its carbon-plated racers and ZoomX foam, the running shoe space has evolved rapidly, and competitors have caught up or surpassed them in certain areas. Still, Nike offers some of the most recognizable and popular shoes across all categories, from elite race-day options to versatile daily trainers.
We've tested over 55 running shoes, and below are the best Nike running shoes you can get from their extensive lineup.
Updates
- 11/13/2025Nike Pegasus Premium reviewed
- 11/12/2025Nike Streakfly reviewed
- 11/06/2025Nike Pegasus Plus reviewed
- 10/24/2025Nike Vomero 17 updated
- 10/21/2025Nike Invincible 3 updated
We've recently started buying and testing running shoes with a very data-oriented approach. While we're just getting started, our methodology already has dozens of tests to help you make the right purchasing decision for your needs. Not only do we use high-end equipment to gather objective data, but we also order multiple sizes of the same shoes for team members to be able to log in miles. This real-world testing is done at various paces and conditions, and with different types of workouts, to cover all the bases. This allows us to verify our results and ensure they align with what you might feel with a specific pair.
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Best Nike Running Shoes For Long-Distance Racing
Marathon Racing8.55K/10K Racing8.0Energy Return8.2Cushioning7.8Lateral Stability7.5Weight:200.7 g (7.08 oz)Heel-To-Toe Drop:6.4 mmSee all our test resultsPlate:Carbon FiberThe best Nike running shoes are the Nike Alphafly 3, especially if you're targeting long-distance races like the marathon. This third iteration of Nike's flagship super shoe blends high-tech innovation with race-day performance, delivering a ride that's both efficient and forgiving over 42 kilometers. The updated midsole design features a full slab of ZoomX foam separated by a carbon plate, and the redesigned Air Zoom pods under the forefoot help maintain propulsion without throwing off your rhythm.
Despite its maximalist stack, this shoe feels impressively streamlined on foot, with a lightweight upper that keeps things breathable and nimble. If you're chasing a PR or looking for Nike's most protective and energetic option for long-distance racing, this is it.
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Best Nike Running Shoes For Short-Distance Racing
Marathon Racing7.45K/10K Racing9.0Energy Return8.4Cushioning6.3Lateral Stability7.1Weight:160.5 g (5.66 oz)Heel-To-Toe Drop:8.8 mmSee all our test resultsPlate:Carbon FiberThe Nike Vaporfly 4 is an excellent shoe for runners targeting distances like 10Ks or half marathons. It offers a snappy, stripped-back ride that feels responsive and efficient without any added bulk. Therefore, it's way lighter than the Nike Alphafly 3, as it puts you closer to the ground and delivers a snappy toe-off, which is beneficial when racing shorter efforts. You still get ZoomX foam and a full-length carbon plate, but with less material underfoot, the shoe puts you closer to the ground, absorbing impacts well but offering less overall protection than the Alphafly 3, something to keep in mind if you're pushing toward longer distances. That makes it feel more grounded and more agile, ideal for events where every second counts.
If you're looking for Nike's lightest carbon-plated shoe, designed specifically for very short races, check out the Nike Streakfly 2. Its thin ZoomX midsole and minimal upper deliver a low-to-the-ground, snappy ride that works well for 5Ks. However, it lacks the cushioning and versatility of the Vaporfly 4 or Alphafly 3, which are far better suited for longer races. It's a niche option, but it's super efficient for short, all-out efforts.
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Best Nike Running Shoes For Intervals
Marathon Racing7.75K/10K Racing7.6Energy Return6.9Cushioning7.3Lateral Stability7.5Weight:247.1 g (8.71 oz)Heel-To-Toe Drop:9.7 mmSee all our test resultsPlate:Carbon FiberThe Nike Zoom Fly 6 is a plated super trainer built for runners who want a dose of race-day tech in a more durable, approachable package. It features a tall stack of foam, with ZoomX on top for bounce and a firmer SR-02 carrier underneath for longevity, all wrapped around a full-length carbon plate. The result is a ride that feels stable and cushioned in the heel yet firmer and more energetic in the forefoot, making it efficient and well-suited for structured speed work, especially if you want to keep your race shoes fresh for race day.
Compared to Nike's true super shoes like the Nike Alphafly 3 and Nike Vaporfly 4, this shoe is less bouncy, less cushioned, and noticeably heavier. It doesn't offer the same explosive pop or fine-tuned geometry, but that's also what makes it more practical for everyday use. Still, it can hold its own on race day, particularly over shorter distances. And it's a good introduction to plated shoes for those not ready to jump straight into a full super shoe. That said, its place in the current market feels narrow, as many runners now just train in super shoes, but it still holds value as a dedicated interval option with better durability for speed sessions.
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Best Nike Running Shoes For Cushioned Daily Miles
Marathon Racing6.25K/10K Racing5.4Energy Return4.6Cushioning7.7Lateral Stability7.5Weight:297.5 g (10.49 oz)Heel-To-Toe Drop:10.3 mmSee all our test resultsPlate:NoneThe Nike Vomero 18 is a no-nonsense daily trainer built for comfort, protection, and long-term durability. It doesn't chase flashy tech or ultralight weight; instead, it focuses on absorbing impact and keeping your legs feeling fresher during slow to moderate efforts. With a dual-density midsole that places ZoomX directly underfoot and ReactX below for added stability and longevity, the ride feels well-cushioned and protective without being overly soft or unstable.
Compared to Nike's bouncier and lighter options like the Nike Alphafly 3 or the Nike Zoom Fly 6, this shoe is heavier and far less focused on energy return. It's not a shoe to pick up the pace effortlessly in; rather, it's great for racking up miles on recovery days or when you just need to go out and log time on your feet. The fit is secure, the ride is stable, and the upper feels substantial, making it a great option for runners prioritizing cushioning and comfort over responsiveness for their daily training.
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Best Nike Running Shoes For Bouncy Daily Miles
Marathon Racing6.95K/10K Racing6.6Energy Return8.0Cushioning6.3Lateral Stability8.0Weight:287.3 g (10.13 oz)Heel-To-Toe Drop:8.4 mmSee all our test resultsPlate:NoneThe Nike Invincible 3 is ideal for runners who want their daily miles to feel springy and fun underfoot. It's not built for speed, but the full-length ZoomX midsole delivers a lively sensation with every step while remaining very stable, which stands out for a daily trainer. Some runners prefer this more engaging ride to flatter, more traditional shoes. This is where it differs most from the Nike Vomero 18. While the Vomero leans into max-cushioning and protection, the Invincible's premium midsole simply returns more energy. Some runners may find the Invincible more exciting to run in, while others might prefer the focus of the Vomero on absorption, especially over longer efforts.
The Invincible isn't the most protective option at higher forces, as it tends to bottom out over longer distances or for heavier runners. And while the ZoomX foam is responsive, the combination of soft geometry and heavier weight makes it less suited for picking up the pace, especially when compared to dedicated super trainers like the Nike Zoom Fly 6. It's a better fit for easy, shorter runs when you just want a bit more bounce and enjoyment underfoot.
Compared To Other Brands
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Industry-leading super shoes.
Nike's top-tier race-day shoes remain some of the most trusted options on the market. Despite launching years ago, the Nike Alphafly 3 continues to be a super popular pick among marathoners, while the more recent Nike Vaporfly 4 and Nike Streakfly 2 reaffirm Nike's leadership in technical innovation, this time by pushing the boundaries of weight reduction and stripped-down design.
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Wide range of models for different needs.
With frequent releases and updates across their lineup, Nike offers a broad range of running shoes suited to different types of runners, training styles, and goals. Whether you're after a cushioned recovery shoe, a plated tempo trainer, or a high-performance marathon racer, there's likely a Nike model that fits the bill.
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Stylish design.
Nike shoes stand out with their sleek designs and bold colorways, which often lead aesthetic trends. As one of the biggest players in the space, Nike also frequently releases special editions and athlete collaborations, so for some runners, lacing up a shoe tied to their idol can be a fun added boost. Others may not care, but the option is there.
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Execution falls short in the daily trainer lineup.
Nike's daily trainers are now organized into a simpler structure with core families like the Pegasus, Vomero, and Structure, as well as additional Plus and Premium versions that aim to separate performance tiers. However, the lineup still feels incomplete: some versions haven't launched yet, and others remain unconfirmed. Furthermore, certain models overlap in feel and purpose, undermining the clarity that the new system is meant to provide.
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Narrow fit and limited width options.
Many Nike shoes are narrow, especially in the forefoot. Only a handful of models are available in wide sizing, and very few of those are performance-oriented. Nike's current options are limited if you need a roomier toebox or have wider feet.
Nike vs adidas
Nike and adidas are two of the biggest names in running, and while Nike has long been seen as a trendsetter thanks to major innovations, adidas has recently gained ground with a more consistent and well-rounded lineup. From daily trainers to elite racing shoes, the Adizero range offers high-performing options with very few missteps. In contrast, Nike's lineup is more polarized: its top-tier models stand out for their technologies and race-day performance, but some of the lower-end options don't benefit from the same level of development and cohesion. Both brands use their own premium foams to great effect. Nike's ZoomX is PEBA-based; it's exceptionally light and energetic, delivering a ride that feels immediately bouncy. Adidas' Lightstrike Pro is TPEE-based and performs best after a short break-in period. It's really responsive and holds its bounce well over time.
Nike vs ASICS
Nike and ASICS are two of the most established running brands, each with a wide and well-developed lineup. Nike is often seen as the more innovative brand with a focus on racing performance. ASICS, on the other hand, prioritizes balance, consistency, and functionality, especially in training shoes. Models like the NOVABLAST offer a seamless mix of cushioning, energy return, and weight, making them easy to recommend for everyday mileage. That said, the old narrative of Nike as the innovator and ASICS as simply the reliable workhorse no longer holds. The METASPEED series has closed the gap with Nike's elite racing models and is arguably on equal footing. Along with other standout models like the SUPERBLAST, ASICS has firmly positioned itself as one of the most forward-thinking brands in the market.
Nike makes running shoes that span the full spectrum, but most share some common traits. They're generally lightweight, with breathable mesh uppers and modern, streamlined designs. Many shoes feature ZoomX, Nike's premium PEBA-based foam known for its soft, bouncy ride, though not all versions of the compound are identical; some are tuned differently depending on the shoe's purpose. Other models use a carrier foam for added durability and stability, and some include Air Zoom units that offer a uniquely bouncy experience underfoot. Most models sit on the softer side underfoot, especially in the performance and racing categories. While not every shoe is a standout, Nike continues to break world records and remains one of the most influential brands in running.
Lineup
Nike organizes its performance running shoes into several categories designed to serve different training and racing needs. These include daily trainers, super trainers, and super shoes. The daily trainers are split into three families (Pegasus, Vomero, and Structure), with each offering (or planning to offer) different versions: the standard (often labeled "Icon"), Plus (typically with full ZoomX), and Premium (often adding Air Zoom units).
Daily Trainers
- Structure: Nike's support-oriented daily trainer, designed for runners needing extra guidance. It uses a broader base and firmer midsole geometry to improve alignment and control, making it the go-to option for overpronators or anyone seeking a more secure ride.
- Vomero: Max-cushioned trainers built for comfort and protection over long mileage. The Vomero line is designed for runners who want a plush, modern experience with minimal ground feel. The Vomero Plus replaces the discontinued Invincible line, and the Vomero Premium is an even chunkier shoe with Air Zoom Units for maximal protection.
- Pegasus: Nike's most iconic and long-running series, dating back to 1982. Marketed as the "responsive" line, it actually sits closer to traditional daily trainers—lower stacked, with more ground feel and a firmer, more controlled ride. Great for runners who prefer a classic underfoot experience.
Super Trainers
- Zoom Fly: Nike's carbon-plated super trainer, built for speed workouts, intervals, and race-pace efforts. It shares design elements with Nike's racing shoes but adds durability and structure to make it more suitable for repeated use in training. While not as energetic or lightweight as a true super shoe, it offers a more approachable plated ride.
Super Shoes
Nike's elite racing models, optimized for performance across specific race distances and less focus on long-term durability. While these categories aren't strict cutoffs, the following shoes generally match best with the indicated ranges:
- Streakfly: a lightweight, low-to-the-ground model built for all-out efforts over short distances (5k up to 10k).
- Vaporfly: a versatile super shoe with a snappy, efficient ride, ideal for mid-distance (10k up to half-marathon) racing.
- Alphafly: a shoe optimized for the demands of the marathon, with a high stack, propulsive and cushioned geometry, and more stability for long-distance racing (Half-marathon and beyond).
Conclusion
Nike remains one of the most influential brands in the running shoe space, with a lineup spanning classic daily trainers to cutting-edge race-day models. While not every shoe is inspiring, Nike's top-tier offerings, like the Alphafly and Vaporfly, continue to set benchmarks for innovation and performance. Whether you're looking for a comfortable daily trainer or an elite racing shoe, there's likely a Nike model that fits your needs. For more details on each model, you can check out our full list of the best Nike running shoes for men and the best Nike running shoes for women below.