The Nike Downshifter 12 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Nike Downshifter 12 is a budget running shoe that also functions effectively as a casual sneaker. This model is particularly suitable for those seeking an economical option without sacrificing comfort, evidenced by its notable midsole performance.

Lab analysis shows that the shoe features a well-designed foam that enhances in-shoe comfort, making it ideal for daily wear. Additionally, the use of 20% recycled content highlights its commitment to sustainability while maintaining performance.


Pros

  • Unbeatable price
  • Premium softness underfoot
  • Comfy interior padding
  • Above average durability
  • Versatile sneaker/running shoe
  • Simple, yet pleasant design
  • Plenty of colors available
  • Recycled materials

Cons

  • Subpar grip
  • On the heavier side
  • Tapered toebox
  • Lacing is not always secure

Key Features

  • Midfoot Fitband: Helps secure your foot in place, enhancing stability throughout your run.
  • Soft Foam Midsole: Offers increased cushioning with every step, making your runs feel more comfortable.
  • Durable Rubber Outsole: Ensures excellent traction on various surfaces, keeping you stable during your workouts.
  • Breathable Mesh Upper: Improves ventilation while showing off the shoe's internal structure for style and function.

Specifications

  • Sole Material: Rubber, providing durable traction and grip.
  • Outer Material: Lightweight and breathable textile upper featuring mesh inserts for enhanced airflow.
  • Closure Type: Lace-Up, allowing for a customizable fit.

Nike Downshifter 12 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Nike Downshifter 12 Nike Downshifter 13 Under Armour Charged Pursuit 3 Adidas Runfalcon 5
Price $70 $75 $70 $65
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 9.9 oz / 280g 9.3 oz / 265g 9.3 oz / 264g 9.7 oz / 275g
Drop lab Drop brand 10.0 mm 10.1 mm 9.6 mm 9.4 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size Slightly small Slightly small True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Balanced Balanced Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Small Normal Small
Toebox durability - Decent Decent Bad
Heel padding durability - Good Bad Bad
Outsole durability - Good Decent Decent
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Wide
Toebox width - Medium Wide Medium
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Flexible Moderate Moderate Flexible
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Moderate Moderate Moderate
Heel lab Heel brand 31.7 mm 32.2 mm 30.8 mm 31.2 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 21.7 mm 22.1 mm 21.2 mm 21.8 mm
Widths available Narrow Narrow Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 16% Bottom 10% Bottom 13% Bottom 44%
Popularity Top 38% Top 27% Bottom 27% Top 41%