The Nike Juniper Trail 2 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

Nike Juniper Trail 2 is a budget-friendly trail running shoe designed for short to medium runs on gentle terrain. Ideal for beginners or casual runners, the shoe features a firm midsole that provides stability but may result in less energy return.

With an affordable price of $85, it offers notable functionality for those seeking Pegasus Trail features without a significant investment. However, the traction may not be optimal for technical terrains, which could affect performance on more challenging surfaces.

The Nike Juniper Trail 2 balances comfort with cost-effectiveness, making it a practical choice for users who prioritize stability over speed.


Pros

  • Great value at just $85
  • Durable upper
  • Can handle road runs if needed
  • Exceptional stability
  • Perfectly suited for heel strikers
  • More cushioning than v1
  • Roomy and comfortable

Cons

  • Grip could be better
  • Might feel too firm and stiff
  • Not ideal for long-distance running

Key Features

  • Made with Nike Grind, incorporating at least 8% recycled materials from shoe manufacturing.
  • Diverse upper material blend of mesh, faux leather, and textile for enhanced durability and breathability.
  • Robust rubber outsole equipped with tapered studs for superior grip on hilly and rocky surfaces.
  • Integrated stability fibers in the lacing system for a secure fit.
  • Sock-like fit due to the inner shoe wrapping around your midfoot.
  • Weight: 318 g for men's shoe size 43
  • Drop from heel to toe: 9.5 mm
  • Pull tabs for easy wear and removal.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Shaft Height: Ankle Strap
  • Outer Material: Mesh

Nike Juniper Trail 2 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Nike Juniper Trail 2 New Balance 510 v6 New Balance Tektrel Nike Pegasus Trail 5
Price $85 $90 $90 $150
Trail terrain Light Light Light Light
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.8 oz / 306g 11 oz / 312g 10.7 oz / 302g 10.1 oz / 286g
Drop lab Drop brand 9.4 mm 8.2 mm 8.0 mm 9.6 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size True to size Slightly small True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Balanced Balanced Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Small Normal Normal
Toebox durability Decent Decent Good Very good
Heel padding durability Good Bad Decent Good
Outsole durability Decent Good Decent Good
Breathability Moderate Moderate Breathable Warm
Width / fit Medium Narrow Medium Medium
Toebox width Wide Medium Wide Medium
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff Moderate
Torsional rigidity Stiff Moderate Moderate Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Moderate Moderate Stiff
Lug depth 3.1 mm 2.9 mm 2.4 mm 3.2 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 34.7 mm 33.8 mm 32.2 mm 34.6 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 25.3 mm 25.6 mm 24.2 mm 25.0 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Season All seasons All seasons Summer All seasons
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Bottom 5% Bottom 3% Bottom 6% Top 20%
Popularity Top 41% Bottom 13% Top 49% Top 14%