The 6 Best Nike Running Shoes of 2025—Esquire’s Top Picks
<p>Now if you’re ready to get the full breakdown of Nike’s sneakers, then keep reading. We’ve got our 6 favorite Nike running shoes for every kind of athlete out there. We won’t let you down, and neither will Nike.</p>” data-next-head/>
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Pros
Increased rubber at outsole for more traction and durability
Cushioned sockliner gives comfort
Cons
Runs small
For a shoe that feels more than a sock, opt for the React Phantom Run Flyknit 2. These shoes have a breathable knit upper, a laceless slip-on design, and thicker layers of foam at the forefoot for more bounce and cushion without the added weight. Now you have no excuse to skip that run, given how easy it is to slip these shoes on and off.
Sizes
6-15
Weight
8.5oz
Colors
4
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Tips for Choosing
Naturally, you want to get the most out of your run, so the shoe you choose is of the utmost importance. When selecting the best Nike sneaker for you, pay close attention to the sneaker’s features and weight.
The shoes on this list are all crafted to perform in different ways. Some—like the styles with extra cushioning, foam, and bounciness—are ideal for those getting into running and perhaps doing shorter runs. Something lighter and sleeker, however, will serve you well on longer runs like your next marathon.
If you’re more of a trail runner, choosing the right sole is essential. Look for solid traction and no-slip grips. To avoid interruptions from debris getting into your shoes, pick the options here that have socklike ankle openings.
How We Picked the Best Nike Running Shoes
The best place to start when compiling a list of the best running shoes is to ask people who run. Luckily, there are several on the Esquire team, so we hit them up for recommendations. People who run are usually brand loyalists, so they’ll share real feedback on which sneakers are best for short, distance, and indoor running. We also looked to online forums and customer reviews to see the specs that runners really care about. Since we were looking specifically at Nike running shoes, we combed all the options available and used the insights above to help narrow down our list.
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FAQs
Are Nike shoes good for running?
Yes. Of course, Nike offers a range of sneakers for a range of activities, and running is one of them. Nike running sneakers are specifically designed for different types of runners, too, as you can see from this list. Some sneakers are multiuse, but check the product description for specific features based on the type of running you plan to do.
What kind of shoes are best to run in?
It depends on the kind of running you’ll be doing. Look for lightweight sneakers for long runs like a marathon; options with thicker, more angled soles if you need arch support; and soles with significant traction if you’re a trail runner. We broke these features out in this list, so bookmark it for reference each time you upgrade your running sneakers.