Nike’s history is deeply intertwined with running and is THE reason the company was founded by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman as both were runners who looked to produce the best footwear possible for the sport. Since then, the products offered under the banner of The Swoosh have expanded 10-fold, though Nike Running is still going strong to this day and is still a major force for The Swoosh. Officially unveiling its lineup of running-ready silhouettes, Nike Running’s product offerings for 2023 will have you covered whether you’re hitting the road, a trail, or on race day. Check below for a small breakdown of each silhouette in Nike Running’s 2023 lineup and keep it locked to our Twitter and the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Road Running
Nike Winflo 10
Designed specifically for beginners of the sport, the Nike Winflo 10 is an all-around general-purpose running sneaker that still can act as a high-performance silhouette or for your daily run on the sidewalk. Compared to the Winflow 9, the 10th iteration of the model provides a roomier toebox while adding padding to the collar and tongue which provides an overall more comfortable experience on foot.
Nike Pegasus 40
Hitting its 40th iteration, the Nike Pegasus is one of Nike’s oldest offerings in the running category and has evolved into a modern-day classic as an everyday running sneaker. For the latest model, the Pegasus 40 gets a redesigned midfoot band that is both secure and forging for any and all foot sizes while the mesh upper adds breathability. Extra foam near the collar and redesigned internal linings provide even more comfort to one of the most iconic running sneakers of all time. For cushioning, Nike Reac and two Air Zoom units give a smooth transition from heel to toe and make each step more responsive and comfortable.
Nike Vomero 17
While the “hype” world is diving into the Nike Zoom Vomero 5 for its lifestyle use, runners can still pick up Vomero models designed with modern-day running tech as seen with the Nike Vomero 17. Compared to previous iterations, the model now features a softer, smoother ride with a modernized upper that is more breathable. Premium cushioning that contains ZoomX foam and Cushonlon 3.0 is designed for long-distance runs and the outsole’s waffle lugs will survive long runs of asphalt and other tough terrains.
Nike Pegasus Turbo Next Nature
Providing an everyday performance runner while keeping sustainability in mind is where the Nike Pegasus Turbo Next Nature steps into Nike Running’s lineup. Containing at least 50% recycled content by weight, the silhouette’s Flyknit upper gives security and comfort when on foot while the ZoomX cushioning system gives bounce with each and every step. Given the shape of a rocker, each stride feels even more natural and provides flexibility when your foot rises from the ground, gives a smooth ride when moving forward, and cushions you each time you make contact with the ground.
Nike Structure 25
Beginning back in 1998, the Nike Structure has always given long-distance runners a comfortable option. For the 25th iteration, the Nike Structure 25 features a single-layer mesh with enhanced arch support and extra cushioning for those that overpronate. This cushioning system features Cushlon 3.0 and Air Zoom units to give better energy return and a softer ride underfoot.
Nike React Infinity Run 3
For your everyday road run, lace up a pair of the Nike React Infinity Run 3 as its become one of the most tested shoes by The Swoosh and provides a soft, stable, and smooth ride whether its from long or short distances. Flywire and mesh give the upper a cool feel while also making your foot as secure as possible as specific zones for breathability, flexibility, and containment are present throughout. One of the best cushioning systems offered by The Swoosh, the React sole unit is cloud-like and the React Infinity Run 3 comes with high-rise cushioning placed directly under your foot to make one closer to the foam.
Nike Invincible 3
One of the latest releases in the Nike Running lineup, the Nike Invincible 3 gives long-distance runners maximum cushioning and comfort. Specifically, the design is based on offsetting wear and tear of the toughest runs and races as its thick cushioning system helps you stay on your feet. Flyknit across the upper adds breathable zones to high-heat areas of your foot while maintaining its strength. Underfoot sits a ZoomX foam that is shaped like a rocker to give bounce with every step and help support the three phases of a runner's stride. With its high and wide profile, a softer feel and more stable ride is achieved.
Trail Running
Nike Juniper Trail 2
If you’re just getting into trail running, the Nike Juniper Trail 2 is the perfect start as its affordable $80 retail price and durable construction allow almost anyone to hit the trails in style. Synthetic leather with microtexture adds durability to the heel while midfoot webbing that comes integrated into the lacing system provides a secure feel. Soft, supportive cushioning gives a smooth ride and its rubber outsole with tapered lugs helps effect up or downhill running.
Nike Pegasus Trail 4
Taking the iconic Pegasus line to the trails, the Pegasus Trail 4 upgrades the silhouette to feature more rugged details to survive the outdoor run. Engineered mesh provides a sturdy, lightweight, and breathable feel while Flywire bands and grippy traction on the outsole will keep your foot stable over rugged terrain. Cushioning keeps things simple yet effective with a full-length Nike React foam.
Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GTX
Enhancing the Pegasus Trail 4 into a weather-resistant Gore-Tex-covered mid-top trail sneaker. A layer of Gore-Tex wraps around the entire upper to prevent water and debris from entering your sneaker while still maintaining the comfort level of the standard Pegasus Trail 4. Around the ankle, a covering helps ensure water and trail debris doesn’t enter your sneaker. Underfoot sits the full-length React midsole while a rubber outsole wraps up near the toe to provide extra durability.
Nike Zegama
Designed with grip, stability, and durability for more hazardous terrain, the Nike Zegma delivers top-tier comfort and protection from different trail varieties. Engineered mesh covers the upper with TPU overlays reinforcing the material while internally the heel provides extra stability. ZoomX foam is combined with stack heights to provide responsiveness and greater energy return alongside the diverse lug pattern on the outsole for enhanced traction on more technical terrains to truly make a killer trail-ready sneaker.
Nike Wildhorse 8
Long-distance trail runners can look to the Nike Wildhorse 8 to trek technical terrain as its design helps it be a protective and durable trail sneaker. Engineered mesh with TPU overlays and the midfoot saddle support system along the edge of the sole and upper give a stable ride with you being fully in control. Underfoot sits a soft, cushiony React foam for long distances.
Nike Kiger 9
Quick, nimble, and lightweight, the Nike Kiger 9 still maintains a trail-ready build while being sleek and minimal in its design. Engineered mesh provides breathability and a lightweight feel while the midfoot saddle support systems provide reliable containment. Fast trail runners will also find the full React midsole and lower offset make you feel closer to the ground while still maintaining its cloud-like comfort.
Race Running
Nike Alphafly 2
Famed for being banned in competitions, the Nike Alphafly is now onto its second iteration. Designed for marathons and long-distance road races, the revolutionary design features a full-length ZoomX cushion, curved carbon plate, and two Zoom Air pods near the forefoot for a propulsive, comfortable, and efficient ride. For its upper, an ultralightweight version of Flywire (Atomknit) receives an upgrade as its Atomknit 2.0 build adds zonal containment in the forefoot and breathability above the toes. Compared to the previous model, the wider heel portion improves stability and transition. Thinner traction on the outsole reduces the weight of the sneaker and allows for extra millimeters of ZoomX to add even more comfort to the famed sneaker
Nike Vaporfly 3
Recently introduced by Nike via a large press release, the Nike Vaporfly 3 acts as an all-around racing shoe for all distances and runners. Flyknit across the uppers receives a zonal design to support stability and breathability on various portions of the model while the midsole’s ZoomX cushioning gets a geometrical-inspired reductive midsole design thanks to a convex shape on the inside of the foot. Carbon fiber beneath your foot also helps with propulsion while the thin outsole rubber lowers the weight of the sneaker without compromising durability.
Nike Streakfly
An ultralightweight design, the Nike Streakfly was specifically crafted to help runners take on competitions like mile runs, 5ks, or 10k races. Thanks to its low-cut design and sleek details, Nike claims it “feels like it disappears on your foot” and helps you connect with the road ahead. Flyknit across the upper combines with the full-length ZoomX midsole for an ultra-responsive and comfortable ride. Instead of carbon fiber, Nike places a Pebax plate as its midfoot shank for stiffness, stability, and a propulsive ride. For its outsole, Nike took data from runners to place specific patterns in the right spots to give solid traction on all surfaces.
Nike Zoom Fly 5
Bridging the gap between a training and race day shoe, the Nike Zoom Fly 5 offers reliable cushioning, a propulsive sensation, and comfort like no other. On top of this, the model utilizes a recycled ZoomX midsole that provides the same comfort as a standard ZoomX foam while being more environmentally friendly. Across the upper sits a double-layer mesh and padding that perfectly blends together comfort, durability, and breathability while underfoot you’ll find a carbon fiber Flyplate and rugged rubber outsole.
Track & Field Running
Nike Maxfly
The latest in Nike’s sprint sneakers, the Nike Maxfly is designed for runners covering the 100-meter and 400-meter sprint. Woven synthetic materials on the upper give a secure and lightweight feel to the model while Zoom Air at the forefoot and two cushioned Air units add extra stability and spring to your step. Carbon fiber is also utilized and tuned in the midfoot and heel for a stiff feeling where needed. On the outsole, seven removable spikes give you traction and the shock wave traction pattern was designed from NSRL athlete data.
Nike Superfly Elite 2
Delivering a generative design for sprinters and hurdlers between 100 and 400-meter races, the Nike Superfly Elite 2 utilizes an AtmoKnit upper that contours to one's foot while providing enhanced breathability. Just like the Maxfly, the outsole features spikes (this time 8) and a shock wave traction pattern designed from NSRL athlete data.
Nike Victory
Longer distance runners who participate in track & field, specifically between 800-meter and 5,000-meter races, have the Nike Victory to look forward to. AtomKnit is utilized on the upper while the sole unit features ZoomX foam on the heel and a Zoom Air unit near the forefoot. Embedded within this midsole is a carbon fiber plate for a snappy response with every step. Traction on the rubber outsole features removable spikes and has its pattern placed in all areas of contact for grip from toe-off to finish.
Nike Dragonfly
Another long-distance spiked sneaker, the Nike Dragonfly is designed for those running between 1,500 and 10,000-meter races. Its lightweight Flyknit upper paired with ZoomX foam make it a responsive, breathable, and lightweight track shoe that also provides optimal energy return. Like previously mentioned sneakers in this category, the outsole uses NSRL athlete data to create its traction pattern and comes with removable spikes.
Nike LJ Elite
The Nike LJ Elite was designed specifically for those in the long-jumping category. Across its upper sits a woven fabric while thick, compressive molded heel foam adds cushioning specifically for the needs of long jumpers. A cross strap helps with lockdown containment while the sole unit houses a Zoom Air unit at the forefoot and a carbon fiber plate for propulsive and stable takeoffs down the runway.
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. Concerts, music, trying new restaurants, and catching the latest movies are some of the things I enjoy when not writing for Sole Retriever. Email: nick@soleretriever.com
