Nike, Inc. is a multinational corporation based in the United States that is involved in the design, development, manufacturing, and global marketing and sales of apparel, footwear, accessories, equipment, and services. The company’s global headquarters are in the Portland metropolitan area, near Beaverton, Oregon (USA). It is a major sports equipment manufacturer and one of the world’s largest suppliers of athletic shoes and apparel. It employs over 44,000 people worldwide, and the brand was valued at $19 billion (€17,5 billion) in 2014, making it the most valuable brand among sports businesses. On January 25, 1964, Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight founded Blue Ribbon Sports, which later became Nike, Inc. on May 30, 1971. Nike, the Greek goddess of victory, inspired the company’s name.
Nike sells its products under the Nike Pro, Nike+, Nike Golf, Nike Blazers, Air Jordan, Air Max, and other brands, as well as subsidiaries such as Jordan, Hurley International, and Converse.
Mission
Nike Inc.’s mission is to drive product innovation for athletes worldwide. Countless ideas are tested in the pursuit of improving performance, reducing injury risk, improving perception and feel, and delivering innovative products to athletes.
Some dismiss Nike as a marketing brand, but Nike was founded as a true game-changer running brand by a runner (Phil Knight) and his trainer (the legendary Bill Bowerman). Nike’s running shoes are among the best available, thanks to their universal fit, cutting-edge technology, and input from world-class athletes. One thing we admire about Nike is how daring they are in updating and innovating their shoes.
Nike is one of the most forward-thinking running shoe companies. While they do stick to some popular models for years (for example, the Nike Pegasus has been around for over 30 years), they are constantly introducing new technologies and, with them, new names and classifications. This review will assist you in making sense of all those model names and technical jargon, as well as determining which Nike running shoes are appropriate for which runner.
Nike Air Zoom Series
The first and most popular category of running shoes is the “Zoom” family. It is based on the wildly popular Pegasus and includes shoes for daily training, speed work training, and even race day. Zoom Air has a fast and responsive ride while still providing excellent cushioning.
The Nike Air Zoom Structure 24 is a supportive neutral trainer that is suitable for a wide range of runs. It provides a lot of comfort and durability for the money. Version 24 is a minor, upper-only update that makes the shoe lighter than its predecessor while also making it more streamlined.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 Shield
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 Shield is a daily trainer that will keep your feet dry and warm in wet weather. The Shield version has a thicker, water-resistant upper and a modified outsole, giving it a slightly firmer ride than the standard Pegasus 38.
The Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16 is a softer, more comfortable version of the Pegasus 38 with more versatility thanks to its ZoomX core. Version 16 only has an upper change, with the main difference being a thicker, padded tongue that makes it feel more luxurious.
Nike React Series
One of the new Nike foam materials for shoe midsoles is called React. Originally introduced in their basketball shoe line; it has successfully made its way into their running shoe line. The main features of React foam are its unique combination of cushioning (soft while compressible) and responsiveness (the ability to quickly return to its original shape). Despite the fact that many brands make similar claims about their latest foams, we tested the Nike React running shoes and unanimously agreed that this material is a game-changer.
The Nike Zoom Fly 4 is the training version of the Vaporfly Next%2, and it provides a similar forward-tipping sensation with each toe-off. It is more durable, but it does not feel as bouncy or soft as the Vaporfly. Version 4 is only an upper update, but don’t let that fool you; the Zoom Fly 4 is a vast improvement in terms of comfort and performance over the Zoom Fly 3.
Nike’s Legend React shoe incorporates the new React foam into an affordable running shoe package while emphasizing a smooth ride and a snug fit upper.
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3
The Nike React Infinity Run 3 has a soft, stable feel and a smooth ride that will get you through both long and short distances. A breathable upper is designed to feel secure while remaining flexible.
Nike Racing Series
Nike’s recent dominance in marathon racing is undeniable. We’d like to think the runners deserve some of the credit, but the sheer number of victories demonstrates the Oregon brand’s dedication to marathon racing.
The Nike Alphafly Next percent is the company’s flagship marathon racing shoe, and it deserves to be expensive. The lightweight, breathable Atomknit makes its debut, while the combination of ZoomX and a stiff carbon plate results in an exhilarating ride. As if that wasn’t enough, the Alphafly has two massive Zoom Air pods in the forefoot to give it some extra “pop.”
Nike Air Zoom Alphafly Next Nature
The Air Zoom Alphafly Next Nature is a fast and natural-feeling super shoe with exceptional versatility, but it is expensive. The Alphafly Nature is made in part from recycled materials. It has a firmer midsole for a faster ride, but its upper is more relaxed, resulting in less foot lockdown.
The Nike Air Zoom Rival Fly 3 is a classic lightweight tempo trainer with a flexible forefoot and a smooth ride. It works best for short, fast workouts, but it can also handle long distances. The Rival Fly 3 now has a softer Cushlon midsole and a thicker, more comfortable upper, making it a better daily trainer.
