Nike Pegasus Trail 5
Pros
- Fully gusseted tongue
- Reflective elements
- Durable upper construction
- New rockered sole
- Great for heel strikers
- Reasonably priced
- All-around comfort
Cons
- Weight increase
- Possibly too plush for trails
- Still lacks traction
Key Features
- Water-Resistant GORE-TEX Upper: Keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.
- ReactX Foam Midsole: 13% more responsive than previous React technology, offering excellent energy return.
- Air Zoom Unit: Positioned in the forefoot for additional cushioning and responsiveness.
- Nike Trail ATC Outsole: Designed for all-terrain adaptability, ensuring stability even in wet weather.
- High Ankle Cuff: Prevents dirt and debris from entering the shoe.
- Reflective Elements: Enhance visibility during low-light conditions.
Specifications
- Model Number: FQ0908-400
- Upper Material: Waterproof GORE-TEX
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Shaft Height: Ankle Strap
- Cushioning: Air Zoom Unit
- Midsole: ReactX Foam
- Origin: Imported
The Nike Pegasus Trail 5 is a hybrid trail running shoe best suited for runners seeking reliability and versatility. It performs well on both rugged terrain and urban environments, effectively combining the necessary toughness with comfort for long-distance runs.
During extensive testing, the outsole exhibited minimal wear, with our durometer indicating a robust 87.9 HC All Terrain Compound. Testing with a Dremel revealed exceptional resistance, showing only slight damage of 0.8 mm. The 3.2 mm lug depth ensures excellent grip on moderate trails while remaining lightweight for city running.
Highly cushioned, the ReactX foam is measured at 51.1% softer than average, which aids in absorbing impact upon landing and propelling during takeoff. This cushioning significantly enhances the overall running experience. Its durability allows it to endure multiple training cycles without significant wear.
The upper section is padded and features layers of mesh for added protection, achieving a perfect score for durability in lab tests, as the Dremel barely affected its integrity. However, the shoe has limitations regarding ventilation, receiving a breathability rating of 2/5, making it less suitable for warmer weather conditions.
Nike Ultrafly
Pros
- Optimized for trail races
- Accommodates wide feet with ease
- Full-length, responsive Pebax midsole
- Equipped with a Vibram Megagrip outsole
- Ideal for heel strikers
- Offers outstanding comfort
- Remarkably stable
- Suitable for 100-mile races
Cons
- The Vaporweave upper could be more durable and breathable
- Heavier than expected even for a trail racing shoe
- The $260 price tag might be steep for some
- Limited toebox height
Key Features
- Men to Women Sizing: The sizing is well thought out, with Men Size 8 equating to 9.5 for women, making it versatile for different users.
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality Nike materials ensuring longevity even in challenging outdoor conditions.
- Rubber Sole: Provides excellent grip and traction, essential for trail running across various surfaces.
- Lace-Up Closure: Allows for a customizable fit to ensure comfort during long runs or hikes.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Nike Materials
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
After extensive testing both in the lab and on the trails, we have determined that Nike’s Ultrafly is best suited for serious trail runners seeking speed and stability. This shoe delivers a cushioned ride while providing a Vaporfly-like experience tailored for off-road conditions. Its notable energy return and supportive platform ensure comfort throughout any distance.
The performance of Ultrafly is driven by its significant stiffness, featuring a full-length carbon plate that is 38.7% stiffer than average according to our bend test. This design facilitates energetic toe-offs and responsive movements. The shoe's impressive 36.6 mm heel height, combined with a plush feel, enhances overall comfort during long runs.
Our durometer testing of the Pebax foam shows an exceptionally low reading of 9.8 HA, indicating it is 62.7% softer than average. Despite its substantial stack height, Ultrafly maintains a stable ride through its rigidity and wide base, which provides solid traction for navigating easy to moderate trails. The sticky lugs measure 3.0 mm deep, ensuring safety and control across various terrains.
However, the steep price of $260 may deter some buyers, especially considering the average trail runner costs around $137.
Nike Terra Kiger 9
Pros
- Bouncy and durable React foam
- Excellent grip on dry terrain
- Built-like-a-tank upper
- Adequate cushioning for long runs
- Fantastic choice for wide feet
- No heel slippage
- Light and agile
- Remarkable value at $150
- Outstanding choice for forefoot strikers
Cons
- Subpar grip performance on wet terrain
- Could be more stable
Key Features
- Nike React technology: A lightweight, durable foam that provides a smooth and responsive ride.
- Full React midsole: Offers enhanced ground connection without compromising comfort or speed.
- Multi-directional traction lugs: High-abrasion rubber aids in grip during ascents and descents, even in wet conditions.
- Breathable upper: Made from engineered mesh that is stronger, more flexible, and keeps dirt out.
- Midfoot band: Provides stability and support to minimize movement within the shoe.
- Durability: Constructed with abrasion-resistant materials for longevity, particularly in high-wear areas.
Specifications
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Engineered mesh, stronger and more flexible than regular mesh.
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The Nike Terra Kiger 9 is a notable option for those seeking a lightweight shoe suitable for hiking and trail running. Its updated features enhance both comfort and stability while maintaining a reduced weight, making it an excellent choice for active outdoor enthusiasts.
Weighing in at just 10.2 oz (288g), the Nike Terra Kiger 9 is 9% lighter than its predecessor, the Kiger 7. In comparison to the average hiking shoe, which typically weighs 13 oz (374g), this model stands out as exceptionally lightweight, allowing users to cover more distance without fatigue.
The React foam cushioning provides a soft ride with remarkable comfort, with our durometer measuring the midsole softness at 17.3 HA. This is significantly softer than the average hiking shoe midsole, recorded at 30.7 HA, ensuring a comfortable experience regardless of temperature fluctuations, as the midsole only hardens to 22.9 HA in lab-simulated winter conditions.
While a soft midsole can raise concerns about stability, the Nike Terra Kiger 9 effectively addresses this issue. The measured forefoot width is 115.3 mm, which is 4.1 mm wider than average, and the heel width at 89.9 mm is also 2.2 mm wider than average, creating a stable landing surface that minimizes foot roll on uneven terrain.
Despite the 4.4 mm lugs being around average for hiking shoes, the Nike Terra Kiger 9 shows limited performance on soft terrain, such as mud or snow. Therefore, this model may not be suitable for hikers requiring reliable traction on wet, soft surfaces.
Nike Wildhorse 10
Pros
- Cushion-packed midsole
- Modernized upper
- Ideal for heel strikers
- Better build quality
- Bold new look with better finish
- Versatile
- Improved energy return
- Forefoot rock plate
Cons
- Still too heavy
- Mesh upper is fragile
- Brutal price hike
- Less agile than predecessors
Key Features
- Engineered mesh upper: Combines breathability with open holes for improved airflow.
- ReactX foam midsole: Offers lightweight energy return, ensuring a comfortable ride.
- Nike Trail ATC outsole: Made from an all-terrain compound suitable for various weather conditions, including wet surfaces.
- Ankle collar: Designed to prevent debris from entering the shoe while you’re on the move.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: A blend of mesh and textile, featuring a rubber outsole.
- Inner material: Engineered mesh for added comfort and breathability.
The Nike Wildhorse 10 is well-suited for hikers seeking strong shock absorption, energy return, and stability during outdoor adventures. Our lab tests confirm its effective cushioning and wide platform, making it one of the best options in the category of Nike hiking shoes.
With ample cushioning providing comfort on long trails, the shoe boasts a stack height of 38.3/27.4 mm, which contributes to gentle landings. During our shock absorption tests, it demonstrated superior impact reduction, recording 144/105 SA compared to the average of 120/97 SA.
The bouncy cushion enhances each step with notable energy return, as evidenced by an impressive score of 61.3% in our tests. Additionally, the Wildhorse 10 features a wide platform measuring 120.6/93.8 mm, which provides more stability than the average 112.4/89.5 mm width.
Its roomy toebox accommodates various foot shapes; however, it may not be suitable for individuals with narrow feet who prefer a more secure fit. Overall, while the cushioning and stability are significant advantages, potential users should consider their foot shape when choosing this model.
Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GTX
Pros
- High-quality Gore-Tex membrane
- Lighter than the Pegasus Trail 5!
- Fantastic for midfoot strikers
- Doubles as a hiking and walking shoe
- Good ReactX midsole
- Amazing for winter
- Can handle all-day adventures
- Reasonable price hike
Cons
- Ankle instability for heel strikers
- Upper lacks padding
- Limited breathability
- Grip falls short on technical terrain
Key Features
- Waterproof GORE-TEX Upper: Keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.
- ReactX Foam Midsole: Provides 13% more responsiveness than previous React technology for light energy return.
- Air Zoom Element: Located in the forefoot area for enhanced cushioning and support.
- Nike Trail ATC Outsole: Constructed from an all-terrain blend that performs well even in slippery conditions.
- Durable High Ankle Cuff: Prevents dirt and debris from entering the shoe.
- Unique Aesthetic: Features design elements inspired by the South Kaibab trail, with graphics reminiscent of desert plants.
Specifications
- Model Number: FQ0908-003
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: All-Terrain
- Outer Material: Waterproof upper, ReactX foam insole
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GTX is designed for trail runners seeking waterproof protection combined with agility and cushioning in a lightweight design. It has been verified as a top performer in lab tests and real-world running scenarios, making it an excellent choice among Nike’s waterproof trail running options.
This model features a Gore-Tex membrane complemented by dense mesh construction to effectively prevent water ingress. In breathability assessments, it received a score of 1/5, indicating that it retains body heat while blocking cold air from entering.
Agility is prominent in the Peg Trail 5 GTX, weighing just 9.9 oz (281g), which is notably lighter than many other waterproof trail shoes. For context, this model only slightly exceeds the non-GTX version, which weighs 10.1 oz (286g). It also demonstrated superior flexibility, being 29.4% more flexible than the average shoe in our bend test.
The ReactX midsole offers lively and comfortable cushioning, allowing for extended runs without fatigue. The cushioning measures 23.4% softer-than-average, providing adequate protection during trail activities while maintaining a responsive ride. However, this comfort comes at a cost, as the stack lacks additional foam support for longer distances, particularly with a 23.8 mm forefoot height.
Although it excels in comfort, those who prioritize plush cushioning for longer outings might want to consider alternative options.
Nike Juniper Trail 3
Pros
- Wallet-friendly pricing
- Enhanced midsole cushioning
- Heel-striker optimized design
- Spacious toebox
- Closer than ever to the Peg Trail
- Upgraded midsole
- All-terrain versatility
- Reflective elements
- Good grip
Cons
- Reduced stack height compared to v2
- Not the best for forefoot strikers
- Limited breathability
Key Features
- Style#: FQ0904-002
- Nike Trail ATC outsole: Made from an all-terrain compound, ideal for wet weather conditions while delivering durability.
- Full-length foam midsole: Offers a soft and cushioned ride, enhancing your overall running experience.
- Flexible midfoot system: Connects the upper and midsole for increased support and stability.
- Softened touch points: Collar foam and tongue designed to minimize distractions during runs.
- Durable mesh upper: Provides comfort and containment for your foot as you navigate different terrains.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Mesh upper, rubber outsole
- Inner material: Leather, Foam, Fabric
The Juniper Trail 3 is a budget-friendly trail running shoe priced at $90, making it an excellent choice for runners seeking a reliable road-to-trail option. In our testing, it delivers a natural and stable ride with notable flexibility in the midsole, enhancing agility while providing wear resistance for extended use.
Compared to the average price of Nike trail shoes at $132, the Juniper Trail 3 offers significant comfort without exceeding the $100 threshold. Weighing just 10.2 oz (288g), it supports agile movements, and the adaptive midsole accommodates uneven terrains effectively. Our bend test indicates that it is 23.7% more flexible than the average shoe in its category.
The combination of balanced cushioning and a low stack height contributes to enhanced stability, preventing awkward foot movements during tests. Our measurements show the stack height at 32.6/21.7 mm and a hardness rating of 23.0 HA, consistent with lab averages.
After extensive use, the All-Terrain Compound displayed minimal wear, appearing nearly new. This is supported by our durometer measurement of 87.0 HC, indicating high durability, and the Dremel test showed only 0.8 mm of damage.
However, we recommend avoiding the Juniper Trail 3 in warm weather conditions due to its dense upper material, which lacks ventilation, resulting in a low 2/5 rating in our smoke test.