This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Trail running is having a moment right now as more and more runners are switching up their cardio and roadwork and getting rugged with their runs. So what is trail running? Trail running simply put is running within nature features unpaved surfaces such as dirt and includes ascents and descents during the run. Trail running also helps you listen to your body while running in nature and synergizes your exercise with nature.
So while technically you can run in any sneaker when going out for a trail run, brands such as Nike do make specific running sneakers or modified versions of their runners to perform better in more rugged and rocky terrain. Features such as lugged outsoles, toeguards, and shank plates are added into trail running sneakers to help keep up with the elements and without sacrificing performance. Here’s a list of the 5 best Nike trail running sneakers you can buy now.
- Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GORE-TEX
- Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7
- Nike Wildhorse 7
- Nike Pegasus Trail 3
- Nike Juniper Trail
1. Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GORE-TEX
Taking inspiration from Nike Running’s Pegasus series, the Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GORE-TEX takes design cues from the longest-running series from Nike and adds a layer of GORE-TEX on the upper with a gaiter on the ankle collar to keep your feet dry in all conditions. Fuse is placed in high wear areas of the upper with React foam used in the midsole for cushioning and a bike tire-inspired rugged outsole with nubs for extra traction finishes off the sneaker.
Price of Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GORE-TEX
The Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GORE-TEX is $30 more than the non-GORE-TEX version and has a box price of $160. The good news is that a number of colorways can be found for a discount as some sizes sell out and you can also find pairs lower on eBay.
Where to Buy the Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GORE-TEX
Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GORE-TEX Colorways
2. Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7
The Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 is a more speed-oriented trail running sneaker as performance is the name of the game with this sneaker. The mesh and synthetic upper bring breathability to the sneaker with Fuse overlays placed throughout. A rock plate is placed in the heel to protect your feet with React foam in the midsole and a Zoom Air unit in the forefoot for cushioning. The detached outsole features multidirectional lugs for traction on descents and ascents.
Price of Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7
The Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 retails for $140 for men and women. There are some special edition colorways that are slightly more, but it is worth noting that as more colorways release you can sometimes find a discounted price on older colors.
Where to Buy Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7
Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 Colorways
3. Nike Wildhorse 7
The Nike Wildhorse 7 features a mesh upper with Fuse overlays around the toe and eyelets for durability with an ankle collar featured on the sneaker for fit and stability. A segmented rock plate is utilized to help protect your feet from the elements and provide rigidity with plush React foam used in the midsole for comfort and cushioning. The Nike Wildhorse 7 features smaller lugs compared to the others but still provides that traction and grip that’s needed on the trail.
Where to Buy Nike Wildhorse 7
Nike Wildhorse 7 Colorways
4. Nike Pegasus Trail 3
The non-GORE-TEX version of the Nike Pegasus Trail 3 features all of the tech and features mentioned earlier but loses the GORE-TEX lining and features a mesh upper with Fuse overlays throughout. The sneaker also loses the dynamic fit collar but still features React foam in the midsole with a lugged outsole designed after mountain bike tires.
Price of Nike Pegasus Trail 3
The Nike Pegasus Trail 3 comes in at $130 like its predecessor and just $10 more than its non-trail cousin, the Nike Pegasus. The Nike Pegasus Trail series usually sell out at full price, but you can often find pairs on sale at Nike in various colors and eBay too.
Where to Buy Nike Pegasus Trail 3
5. Nike Juniper Trail
For those looking for a more responsive ride or just on a budget, the Nike Juniper Trail might be for you. The sneaker uses a mesh upper for breathability with Fuse overlays on the eyelets and nubuck on the mudguard and heel counter overlay for durability. The half bootie construction provides a secure fit with Flyknit cables utilized for containment and lockdown while running. The Phylon midsole provides a responsive ride with just enough cushioning and the outsole features a more traditional running outsole with larger lugs on the forefoot and a diamond pattern on the heel.
Price of Nike Juniper Trail
Nike Juniper Trail is the most affordable of the Nike Trail lineup coming in at $70.
