Best Nike Running Shoes in 2025

Finding the perfect running shoe can feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack, especially with the amount of choice available today. Nike, a brand synonymous with athletic excellence, continues to lead the pack with its innovative designs and running technologies in their running shoe lineup.

Finding the right Nike running shoes comes down to fit, cushioning, stability, and energy return. I tested these shoes across different training scenarios to ensure they deliver on performance, support, and value. Whether you’re chasing race-day speed with the Alphafly 3 or looking for an all-around trainer like the Pegasus 41, each model here meets the high standards runners should expect.

This guide highlights the benefits of these Nike running shoes while offering a balanced perspective. For example, the Invincible 3 excels at long-distance cushioning and stability but can feel bulky for speed work. On the flip side, the Vaporfly 3 is ultra-light for speed enthusiasts but less ideal for extended runs due to its narrow fit and lack of stability.

By the end, you’ll know what sets each shoe apart, so you can confidently choose your next pair of Nike running shoes.

➡ This Nike running shoes roundup focuses on the road running shoe category, if you’re a trail runner, and want to know which Nike Trail running shoes perform the best, head over to my Best Nike Trail Running Shoes roundup instead.

Nike Alphafly 3 [Best Race Day Shoe]

Read my in-depth Nike Alphafly 3 review / watch my video review

The Nike Alphafly 3 is one of the most exceptional race day super shoes, designed for serious runners looking to enhance their performance on race day or during speed work sessions. The Alphafly shoes are known for their performance optimization and efficiency. Priced at $285, these shoes fit true to size with a medium width, making them comfortable for most foot shapes. The Alphafly 3 features an 8mm drop and a neutral stability that accommodates various running styles, with Air Zoom pods located under the forefoot for added propulsion. The upper is crafted from Nike’s AtomKnit mesh, which is both breathable and adaptable, providing a snug, sock-like fit. The integrated tongue and padded laces ensure a secure, irritation-free experience.

Performance-wise, the Alphafly 3 stands out with its midsole comprising two Air Zoom units in the forefoot and full ZoomX foam, delivering maximum bounce and energy return. The full-length carbon fiber plate, known as the Flyplate, enhances propulsion, making these shoes ideal for half and full marathon racing. Despite its advanced technology, the shoe remains incredibly lightweight at 7.2 oz, allowing for a faster, less strenuous run.

Things worth noting include the high price tag, which might be a dealbreaker for some runners. If budget is a concern, you might want to explore other options on this list like the Vaporfly 3 for example.

Nike Zoom Fly 6 [Best Speed Trainer]

Read my in-depth Nike Zoom Fly 6 review / watch my video review

Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 8.5oz / 241g | Drop: 8mm

The Nike Zoom Fly 6 is a lightweight speed trainer with a carbon fiber plate and dual-foam midsole that balances cushioning and responsiveness very well, at an affordable price. Designed for speed training, marathon prep, and race day, it features a top layer of ZoomX foam for energy return over SR-02 foam, which enhances durability and stability.

The shoe’s snug yet comfortable dual-layer woven mesh upper ensures a reliable lockdown, while the articulated heel counter adds a secure wrap. Its 10% weight reduction compared to the Zoom Fly 5 makes it a noticeable improvement for daily training. Priced at $170, it’s an affordable alternative to Nike’s premium racing shoes like the Vaporfly 3 or Alphafly 3.

Nike Pegasus 41 [Best Daily Trainer]

Read my in-depth Nike Pegasus 41 review / watch my video review

The Nike Pegasus 41 is a versatile daily trainer designed to meet the needs of a wide range of runners. At $140, this shoe offers excellent value with a fit that’s true to size and available in both medium and wide widths. Featuring a 10mm drop, the Pegasus 41 uses Nike’s ReactX foam midsole along with two Air Zoom units for enhanced energy return and cushioning. The Zoom Air units provide a responsive feel, making the Pegasus 41 suitable for both marathon and shorter runs. The outsole is durable and flexible, sporting a waffle pattern for improved traction and flexibility.

The Pegasus 41 shines in its comfort and adaptability right out of the box, thanks to its breathable, stretchy upper that hugs the foot without needing a break-in period. This upper, combined with a well-padded tongue and collar, ensures a snug yet comfortable fit for extended wear. The ReactX foam midsole provides a responsive ride with noticeable bounce, making it suitable for daily training, easy runs up to 10 km, and even some tempo runs.

Things worth noting include its weight, at 10oz, which is heavier than some might prefer for faster runs – if that sounds like you, read my Tempo Running Shoes roundup next.

Nike Invincible 3 [Best Max Cushioned]

Read my in-depth Nike Invincible 3 review / watch my video review

Nike continues to impress with the Invincible 3, high-performance max cushioned shoes that stands out for its cushioning and energy return. Priced at $180, the Invincible 3 fits true to size, providing a snug fit typical of Nike’s premium running shoes. The medium-width toe box and overall design ensure comfort and support, making these shoes a great choice for long runs and marathon training.

The Invincible 3 features Nike’s ZoomX cushioning in the midsole, which offers a bouncy and responsive ride. The high foam stack height and rocker design promote a smooth transition from heel to toe, while a strip of plastic around the heel provides added stability. The evolved Flyknit upper enhances breathability and durability, adapting well to foot movements. These design elements make the Invincible 3 ideal for runners who prioritize comfort and stability during long-distance runs and easy miles, like marathon training, for example.

Things worth noting include that the shoe does lack in stability which is mostly down to the fact that the midsole is so plush and cushioned; it’s this cushioning that makes them so much fun to run it.

Nike InfinityRN 4 [Best Support Shoe]

Read my in-depth Nike Infinity Run 4 review

The Nike Infinity Run 4 provides enhanced stability, energy return, and features sustainable materials, making it an excellent stability shoe. Priced at $160, this shoe fits snugly and runs small, so sizing up by half a size is recommended. With a 9mm drop and weighing 11.4oz, the InfinityRN 4 provides a medium-width toe box and high support, making it ideal for long-distance training and everyday runs.

The standout feature of the InfinityRN 4 is its ReactX foam midsole, which delivers 13% more energy return than its predecessor, React foam. This cushioning, paired with a rocker midsole design, ensures a smooth and natural stride, minimizing energy loss. The evolved Flyknit upper enhances breathability and durability, hugging the foot securely. Despite its high cushioning, the shoe maintains excellent stability due to a wider midsole and a plastic strip around the heel, which prevents lateral roll.

Things worth noting include the shoe’s tight fit, which may not be comfortable for those with wider feet, even in the half-size larger option.

Nike Vaporfly 3 [Runner Up Race Day Shoe]

Read my in-depth Nike Vaporfly 3 review / watch my video review

The Nike Vaporfly 3 is an extremely lightweight elite racing Nike shoe designed to push the boundaries of speed and performance (at the cost of some comfort). Priced at $260, it fits true to size in length but is notably narrow in the midfoot, which will be uncomfortable for those with medium to wide feet. The upper is crafted from a super breathable Flyknit material, and the shoe features a quirky asymmetrical lacing system. The Vaporfly 3 weighs a remarkable 6.5oz for a size US Men’s 9, making it one of the lightest racing shoes on the market. The shoe has an 8mm drop and is best suited for race days and speed training.

Key specifications include full-length ZoomX midsole foam for excellent energy return and a carbon fiber Flyplate for maximum propulsion. The Vaporfly 3’s midsole is both cushioned and responsive, offering a dynamic push-forward feel that enhances running efficiency. Despite these advantages, the shoe’s stability is questionable, primarily due to its narrow design, which may not support runners with pronation issues or those seeking a stable ride.

Things worth noting include the shoe’s narrow footbed, which will not provide the necessary comfort for runners with wider feet. Additionally, while the asymmetrical lacing system aims for a unique aesthetic, it may not appeal to everyone and can complicate achieving a snug fit. If stability is a primary concern, alternatives such as the HOKA Cielo X1 or the Nike Alphafly 3 will be better suited. The Vaporfly 3’s design will not be ideal for heel strikers, who require more support and cushioning in the heel area.

---

I really hope you enjoyed this Best Nike Running Shoes roundup, if you’re still not sure which Nike running shoes are best for you, please just let me know your specific requirements in the comments below, and I’ll get you hooked up with the best pair for you.