The Nike Juniper Trail 3 Review & Lab Test of 2026

The Nike Juniper Trail 3 is a budget trail shoe designed for versatility on various terrains. This model is particularly well-suited for users who prefer a stable and spacious fit, making it ideal for daily wear and light hiking. The lab results indicate that the shoe features a significant midsole upgrade while maintaining a lightweight design.

The shoe's construction includes a notable weight reduction combined with a firm foam rating of 31.5 HA, which translates to a stable platform for users. However, testing shows it may not perform optimally in hot weather or for those who are forefoot strikers due to its specific design characteristics.

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

Nike Juniper Trail 3 Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Nike Juniper Trail 3 Merrell Morphlite New Balance Tektrel Nike Pegasus Trail 5
Price $90 $100 $90 $150
Trail terrain Light Light Light Light
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.2 oz / 288g 8.4 oz / 237g 10.7 oz / 302g 10.1 oz / 286g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 10.9 mm 11.0 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 Soft Balanced Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Small Normal Normal
Toebox durability Decent Bad Good Very good
Heel padding durability Bad Decent Decent Good
Outsole durability Good Decent Decent Good
Breathability Warm Moderate Breathable Warm
Width / fit Medium Narrow Medium Medium
Toebox width Wide Medium Wide Medium
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Stiff Moderate
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Moderate Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Flexible Moderate Stiff
Lug depth 2.6 mm 2.0 mm 2.4 mm 3.2 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 32.6 mm 32.3 mm 32.2 mm 34.6 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 21.7 mm 21.3 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 2% Top 40% Bottom 6% Top 20%
Popularity Bottom 49% Bottom 20% Top 49% Top 14%