A good run is so therapeutic, and one of the simplest cardiovascular exercises out there. Anyone can do it: men, women, young and old! Just strap on a pair of running shoes, and you can start toning your leg muscles as well as cutting calories. It is, however, a high-impact workout, which can lead to post-workout sores if you don’t protect your feet.
It is essential to know which pair of shoes fit your workout plan. You can’t just go for the flashiest looking pair and expect positive results. Knowing what features you should look out for will ensure that you get the best deal.
Nike offers a huge variety to choose from for different types of activity and physical conditions of the wearer, and we have curated the 12 best Nike running shoes below!
Table of Contents
- Best Nike Running Shoes in Malaysia
- How to choose your Nike running shoes
12 Best Nike Running Shoes
- Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38
- Nike Epic React Flyknit 2
- Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7
- Nike Air Zoom Structure 24
- Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 Flyease (Extra-Wide)
- Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2
- Nike Winflo 8
- Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next % Flyknit
- Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2
- Nike Air Zoom Structure 23
- Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit
- Air Zoom Alphafly Next%
Why It’s Our Top Pick:
“The Nike Pegasus 38 is great for most running routines, including long-distance and also casual, everyday jogs. It hugs the feet comfortably with plush cushioning.
The toe box and upper have also been upgraded to allow for just the right amount of flexing, but snug enough that you will not slip around in your shoes. As a bonus, it looks sleek enough to pair with any outfit! “
Features
This shoe features a wider toe box to give your toes enough room to move around, but with webbing around the midfoot to provide enough tightness when you lace them up. A Zoom Air unit is fixed at the forefoot to give you plenty of cushioning for a bouncier run.
Testimonies
A wide range of users found this pair of shoes to be able to withstand all types of running routines, from cross-country to a light jog. They love the bounce that comes along with the Zoom Air support, which helps them to withstand impact when running.
If you cannot exert too much energy for high-impact workouts, the next best thing to do are long walks.
This pair of shoes is responsive to the feet of its wearer, providing a nice little booster in its even cushioning. The upper is made of one piece of mesh, and because the shoes are so stable, you will not feel the brunt of the ground even if you go the distance.
Features
Cushioning is common in running shoes, but the React foam technology in this pair of shoes acts a little like a memory foam pillow. On impact, it squishes to absorb the impact but immediately reverts to its original form. This contributes to the durability of the shoes. Despite its heavy cushioning, the Epic React Flyknit 2 is incredibly lightweight.
Testimonies
The most enthusiastic comments are commonly about the stability and durability of these shoes. Many also remark on how the design is very pleasing to the eyes, while also commenting on the lightness and breathability the mesh upper gives to the shoes. Runners could go up to 10km with no problems wearing them.
Trail runners often have to go through some tricky terrains, sometimes wet rocks or even muddy paths. As such, their shoes must have a good grip and fit them very well to prevent the wearer from falling out of their shoes.
The Terra Kiger 7 has multi-surface traction in the heel made of high-abrasion rubber, which aids with a strong grip for climbing up and down.
Features
Nike has brought over the React midsole to this pair of shoes, and a Zoom Air unit in the forefoot. The padded tongue and heel collar provides a good fit, and is equipped with toe rands that protects the wearer from sharp rocks.
Testimonies
Wearers are happy with the functionality of the shoes. The reflective colour and surface are helpful for improving the visibility of night runners, and the soles are said to be very sturdy and suitable for trails.
Having flat feet means that your feet have little to no arch underneath your feet. Running on flat feet without proper support will cause repeated strain to your ankles, knee joints, and hips.
Nike focuses on the cushioning and midfoot support on the Air Zoom Structure 24, which is great for flat-footers, as they would benefit from extra support.
Features
The shoes come with a crash pad under the heel, with a Zoom Air unit added at the forefoot for more responsive cushioning. This facilitates heel-to-toe transition and enhances flexibility. An integrated lace on the upper provides extra support for the midfoot.
Testimonies
Reviewers praises the dynamic fit of this pair of shoes. They are very happy with the comfort that it provides for runs and the additional cushioning system assists greatly with their workout.
Even Bigfoot can run in Nike shoes! Jokes aside, this pair of running shoes have the same features as the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38, but provides an extra-wide option. A Zoom Air unit is fitted into the forefoot with a React midsole, giving the wearer all the cushioning needed for a bouncy run.
Features
The Pegasus 38 Flyease has the same features as the regular Pegasus 38. This is an option for people with wider feet. Extra toe room is provided for optimum comfort, while the mesh upper fits closely to the shape of your foot.
There’s also a foam tongue to reduce tension on the top of your foot. Finally, the Flyease zip entry means you don’t need to unlace every time you put on or remove the shoes.
Testimonies
Users attest to the comfort of the shoes. The Flyease zip entry is convenient to slip in and out of the shoes easily but the webbed lacing system can be adjusted to make it fit perfectly.
Pain is always debilitating for your run, but running shoes with extra support will help to counter the issue and get you back on your feet sooner.
Features
The Winflo boasts Nike’s good ol’ Zoom Air unit in the forefront, extending to the heel to absorb most of the impact. Flywire technology is adapted on the upper of the shoes, reinforcing the fit for the wearer and locking your foot in.
There’s also a Zoom Air unit at the forefront and heel to create a responsive cushion. And with foam around its heel and ankle combined, the wearer’s feet should feel secured. Made with Flywire technology, this reduces the risk of in-shoe slipping, which is great for people with subsisting injuries.
Testimonies
Users experienced reduced fatigue when wearing these shoes for their daily routine. Reviewers also rave about the pocket-friendly price of the Winflo 8, which they mention to be worth every penny.
Plantar fasciitis is the medical term for heel pain and is a plague for people who are always on their feet. Naturally, you should look for a pair of running shoes with adequate support so your feet do not need to work so hard.
Nike’s Tempo Next comes with a React foam heel, giving you a firm landing. A further step-up for heel protection comes from the composite plates on the soles of the shoes.
Features
The highlight of the shoes is being constructed with a unique combination of various technology. It features ZoomX foam on the front and React heels, together with two Zoom Air Pods at the forefoot for that extra bounce. A composite plate rests on the Zoom Air Pods which makes for fantastic flex and stability.
Testimonies
These shoes have been used by users for running and also at the gym. Some users who had past injuries found it great to wear, and that it’s nice for tempo-oriented runs.
Overpronation is when your foot rolls inward when you step, leading to extreme flattening of your feet. In the long run, you will experience pain on the arches of your feet which can extend to your back.
We’d recommend the React Infinity as it has deep cushioning features, arch support and narrow grooves for flexing.
Features
The Flyknit upper is supported by Flywire technology used to enhance support and stability. A rocker-like shape is featured to cradle the foot and offer flexibility, along with higher stacks to give wearers a plushy feel as they run. Additionally, the shoes come with padded ankle collars so that wearers can wear them without socks.
Testimonies
Many likes the shoes for their fresh look as well as the fact that there’s proper ventilation that users like wearing not just for runs, but also on the daily.
The sock-like feature of the shoes were so comfortable that it felt like they are wearing nothing at all. Wearers even found the shoes capable of long-distance running up to 30km.
While other parts of your legs commonly hurt after a run, shin pains do not occur often. If you feel a throbbing on your shins, you have likely developed shin splints. If so, this bouncy pair of running shoes are going to suit your needs! They are the very first Nike shoes with 100% ZoomX midsoles, which means it is soft as butter.
Features
The 100% ZoomX midsoles with higher stacks give the shoes an even smoother feel. It has a wider shape for the forefoot to ensure optimum stability. Moreover, the Flyknit upper is upgraded for breathability at zones where your foot heats most during exertion. Finally, a waffle outsole is fitted on to make for better traction.
Testimonies
Users found it to be a fun experience to run in the shoes because they give a lot of bounce. Some found that the midsoles are very soft, causing it to be more susceptible to sharp rocks and therefore, making it less durable.
FAQs – How to choose your Nike running shoes
The first thing to do: Always hear what your body tells you.
Shoe fit
- If you have worn certain running shoes before and experienced pain during or after your routines, it is probably prudent to see if your feet fit your shoes without being too tight all around.
- There should be about one thumb’s width in front of your toe so you can wiggle them comfortably.
Cushioning
- Depending on your favoured running routes and tempo, you may also want to get a pair of Nike shoes with additional cushioning, especially if you have pre-existing injuries.
- Some running aficionados prefer a lower stack height (cushioning) for a more organic running experience.
Wearing experience
- One last tip – test your shoes! Head to your nearest Nike store and get a feel of the pair of kicks before you purchase them and your feet will thank you.
- It is better to do a test run (well, not literally) in the evenings, as our feet tend to swell in the day and stabilise in size then.
Have you gotten your Nike running shoes yet? If you have, time to start running towards your goal!