It's been two months since Caleb Olson turned in one of the fastest times in Western States history, wearing what can only be described as a white fishnet running top, and now Nike has released details on what gives with its latest trail running technology.

With the planet turning hotter and long-distance trail races getting more popular, Nike identified a need for clothing that helps athletes stay cool. Nike Radical Airflow represents "a new era of breathable apparel," according to the brand, which is no surprise if you saw images of Olson, as his shirt appeared to have more space than substance.

“Wearing it is like stepping into a fridge," says Olsen, who ran the 100-mile race in 4 hours, 11 minutes, and 25 seconds despite battling temperatures in the 90s.

Couldn't he just take his shirt off, you might ask? Not according to Nike, which says fridge-effect isn't just about those gaping holes.

Nike Radical AirFlow technology

When your body starts to heat up while you're running on a warm day, your sweating mechanism works pretty much like an in-built air conditioning system, allowing heat to escape through moisture. But only if that sweat is allowed to evaporate off your skin, as we explain in our article on breathable fabrics.

According to Nike, Radical AriFlow doesn't just allow more sweat to escape through the giant holes in the mesh, thereby accelerating the body's natural cooling mechanism; it also speeds up airflow towards your skin while you run.

The holes, which Nike calls "airducts," expedite the flow of air while you're on the move, thanks to a "funnel-shaped" construction that goes from larger on the outside to smaller as they get closer to your body. In lab tests, engineers also discovered that placing dimples on the inside of the fabric (where it comes into contact with your skin) helps to improve the circulation of that air. And that's why the brand says it chose a long-sleeved top – to give athletes the maximum benefit possible.

Does it really work? According to Drew Holmen, who wore a prototype of the shirt for his win at the Lavaredo Ultra Trail 80 in Italy at the end of June, Olson's victory wasn't a mere fluke.

"I was shocked by the cool breeze I felt across my body," says Holmen.

Meanwhile, those large cut-outs under the arms offer mobility and also cut down on weight and chafing in high-friction and high-sweat areas, making it all the more interesting for ultra runners.

Nike says the technology has been tested over the last two years – one of the largest tests in Nike running history – in the field by Nike's All Conditions Racing Department, and in controlled research settings using thermal mannequins. Lab tests reveal that when compared to DriFit, Radical AirFlow prototypes absorb and retain 50 percent less sweat after prolonged running in hot conditions.

Athletes will continue to test the prototype throughout the 2025 elite season for release in 2026, so we'll be keeping our eyes peeled for more skin on display at this year's UTMB finals. No word yet on what your tan line will look like after a summer in the top.

• The best running tops: for training and races on all terrains
• The best women’s running tops: for cool and dry runs on the trails or roads

Eying up the trails this summer? You'll need a comfy pair of running shoes to keep you stable and support your feet as you race through the wilderness. If your old ones are looking a little tired, check out this awesome deal on one of the comfiest pairs we've tested - the Nike Zegama 2s.

We rated these trail-ready shoes as the best pair for easy trails in our expert guide to the most comfortable trail running shoes, and they're now available for just $144.97 in men's sizes, and $151.97 in women's sizes at Nike.

On first glance, you're certain to notice this pair's impressively chunky 39mm stack. It's made from bouncy ZoomX foam, designed to cushion your feet and increase bounce as you sprint through the trails. Underneath, the Vibram Megagrip outsoles feature an aggressive formation of chevron lugs, which dig into the trails to keep you upright.

You're always going to lose a little stability with such a large stack height, but trail running expert Julia Clarke was pleasantly surprised by the outsoles' performance on the trails.

"I've made a point of running down steeper grassy sections where it wasn't super wet but there were still muddy patches and I didn't skid once, which was really a nice surprise," reads Julia's review for Advnture.

The Zegama 2s are a comfortable, lightweight pair suited to grassy and easier trails. If you're after something a little tougher for rocky terrain, check out our guide to the best trail running shoes.

Not in the US? Don't worry, you can still snag a great deal. Look below for today's best Nike Zegama 2 deals where you are.

• The best barefoot running shoes: feel the ground beneath your feet
• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

Nike has long been the reigning brand for road runners, birthing the modern movement of super shoes, so when it began its foray into trail running, it was no surprise when it kept its signature big, bouncy midsoles.

If you're looking for a more comfortable, bouncier approach to running on soft ground, right now you can pick up the Nike Zegama 2 trail running shoes for just $89.93 at REI. That's a whopping 50% off the regular list price for these trail running shoes, which I found to be surprisingly rugged when I tested them last year.

Yes, they look like road running shoes, and nice ones at that, but these shoes displayed excellent grip thanks to chevron-shaped lugs. They also have a built in ankle gaiter which really helps if you run a lot on dusty or rocky paths where debris can sneak in and slow down your journey.

That big, bouncy midsole comes thanks to the brand's ZoomX foam and it's as plush and comfortable as it looks, which makes these shoes great for longer trail runs as well as road runs, and along with a rock plate in the forefoot makes for a more responsive ride too.

This deal applies to men's sizing in Armory Navy/Sail and women's sizing in all colorways.

If you're not in the US, scroll down to the bottom of this page for today's best deals on the Nike Zegama 2 trail running shoes near you.

I was surprised at how stable these shoes were despite the 39mm stack and rocker sole. They don't have a wide geometry, but I was quite confident running over rough ground in them. I also found that they don't have a ton of room for high volume feet, so if you have high arches definitely try them on indoors first.

I personally didn't find them to be the most breathable of all the trail running shoes that I own, perhaps due to a more durable upper, but ultra runner Riley Brady has managed some pretty impressive desert feats in theirs, including at the very hot Javelina 100, so they've clearly got the goods for some who want to go the distance.

If you're not in the US or UK, here are today's best deals on the Nike Zegama 2 trail running shoes where you are:

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• The best trail running shorts

Following two mammoth performances at the Javelina Jundred and Black Canyon 100k in recent months, inquiring minds in the ultra running world have been asking when Riley Brady is going to get a sponsor. The wait is over, as the nonbinary runner announced they have signed with Nike.

Posting on Instagram with @runfreetrail, Brady unveiled the deal calling it "a natural partnership." Brady has reportedly been running in Nike shoes for years, though not necessarily of the trail variety – they won the Javelina women's race in October wearing Nike's carbon-plated Vaporfly road shoes. An unorthodox choice for a trail race? Yes, but did they work? Also yes, with Brady crossing the finish line in 14:09:01.

In February, Brady went on to destroy the previous course record at the Black Canyon 100k coming in nearly 30 minutes ahead of the previous course record, set by Keely Henninger in 2023. Those super shoes seem to be just the ticket for this runner.

Whether the rising star will stick to the tried-and-tested Vaporflys for the Western States in June, where they're a favorite to win, or give something from Nike's trail lineup a go remains to be seen. They shared some yesterday on social media showing them wearing what looks like the Nike Zegama 2s, which are just as plush, carbon plate-free and if nothing else will do a better job of keeping debris out thanks to an in-built gaiter.

Brady has recently moved to Boulder where they're training under the tutelage David Roche of recent Leadville 100 fame. We wonder if he's got Brady on carb training with his running gel formula?

• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures

An unreleased prototype pair of Nike trail running shoes that made the podium at Transgrancanaria last week have set tongues wagging, with many wondering if Nike is planning a serious move into trail running territory.

On February 22, Utah's Caleb Olson crossed the finish line in Maspalomas in a stunning 12 hours, 17 minutes and 25 seconds, besting the previous record by 25 minutes. Naturally, inquiring minds wanted to know what shoes he was wearing, and some eagle-eyed spectators spotted that the Nike-sponsored athlete looked to be testing out a never-before-seen shoe, that sports some interesting details.

Runner Christian Weigand, who runs the Instagram account @runners_highest and competed in the event's marathon distance, first spotted the shoes and posted pictures which you can view below, writing: "@nikerunning tell me more!"

Nike has long dominated the road running scene, but any attempts to move onto Hoka and Salomon's more uneven turf have been half-hearted at best with shoes like the Wildhorse 8 and Zegama 2s all slightly missing the mark.

In 2023, the Nike Ultrafly trail racing shoes came along, and basically took the super shoe formula that Nike put on the map with the Vaporfly – a giant stack of ZoomX foam and carbon plate – and added a Vibram outsole to help with grip.

The resulting shoe had an upper that wasn't quite durable enough for ultra running, and with a 38.5 mm stack and 8.5 mm drop, it definitely wasn't every trail runner's cup of tea. But it seems like the brand still thinks the Ultrafly is worth investing in, as the prototype the Olson wore for his win appears to be an updated version, with some telling details.

First is the absence of the ZoomX branding on the midsole, which suggests Nike is trying a new foam technology from its predecessor and other cushioned trail runners like the Zegama 2s.

Second, and most surprisingly, the tongue of the shoe reveals it falls under the brand's ACG label, which is a first for any Nike super shoe. Short for All Conditions Gear, the sub-label was launched back in 1989 and built on the brand's entry into hiking gear. In recent years, however, it has been more associated with the gorpcore movement than performance, as last year's Nike Cygnal boots showed us.

These shoes, however, are clearly built for function over fashion – either that or Olson is an even better runner than we realized. The brand hasn't released any official details about the shoe yet, but it may be a sign of things to come for Nike. Who could blame them for wanting to pull up a chair and join Hoka and Salomon at the trail running table?

• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures
• The best trail running socks: comfort and support on uneven ground

Mountain runner Francesco Puppi has gotten back on track with a new sponsorship deal just days after announcing he'd left Nike at the end of the year over an ad campaign he says made him uncomfortable.

On Friday, the Italian world champion sky runner announced that he'd signed with Hoka, the biggest brand in trail running and current title sponsor of the UTMB. He joins the ranks of current UTMB record holder Jim Walmsley and ultramarathon legend "Speedgoat Karl" Melzer as a Hoka-sponsored athlete.

"Running has taught me to embrace change, to keep moving forward and to seek growth in every step," says Puppi, who has signed a three-year contract.

"What feels really special about joining the Hoka family is that they empower me to feel my authentic self, to embrace both my triumphs and my vulnerabilities, and to share the self-doubt and uncertainty that all of us face."

With his announcement, Puppi shared a video on Instagram, which you can watch below, where he visits Hoka's headquarters in Annecy, France and meets with Director of Innovation Christophe Aubonnet to see the inner workings of Hoka shoes like the Speedgoat 6 and Rocket X 2 racing shoe.

Last week, we reported that Puppi had left Nike after five years over an ad campaign the brand ran during the Olympics that he feels "links success with being single minded, deceptive and selfish." With his impressive record in trail running, it's no surprise that another brand was waiting in the wings to snap the 33-year-old up.

Puppi took gold last year in the 100k Vibram Ultra Trail Lago d'Orta as well as three 50k races including the Julian Alps Trail Run by UTMB. He has run two OCCs reaching second place on the podium and holds the Lavaredo 50k course record which he set in 2023 in an unbelievable 04:02:16. His best marathon time is 2:16:18 and he has run a 33-minute vertical kilometer.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• The best trail shoes for ultra runners 2025: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures

For most elite ultra runners, a sponsorship deal provides a chance to focus solely on training and improving performance while increasing their profile and of course, helps with the cost of travel to compete in races. It's not an easy thing to give up, but world champion sky runner Francesco Puppi did exactly that when he parted ways with Nike recently.

In an announcement on Instagram, the Italian sky runner says he decided to leave Nike after watching an ad titled Winning Isn't for Everyone that aired during the Paris Olympics.

The 90 second ad shows pivotal performances from athletes like LeBron James and Serena Williams with a voiceover from actor Willem Dafoe. The brand says it developed the campaign after conducting conversations with hundreds of athletes about what it meant to win, but Puppi says he thinks the ad "basically links success with being single minded, deceptive, obsessive and selfish".

Puppi added: "It felt uncomfortable to represent a brand that stands (at least in the ad) for the opposite of what I stand for. It felt like years of promoting inclusivity, diversity, fair play and embracing failure were thrown out of the window."

Here's the ad if you want to watch it for yourself and make your own mind up:

Puppi, who took gold in the World Long Distance Mountain Running Championships in 2015 and 2017, says he expressed his concerns to Nike, but was told that he had misunderstood the ad.

"But guess what, Nike? Commercials don’t come out with an instruction manual, so if that was the impression I got, you should probably acknowledge it. I’m sure I wasn’t the only one," says Puppi, who was sponsored by Nike for five years.

Puppi goes on to say that he believes winning is for everyone and doesn't require sacrificing humanity or kindness.

"True champions are usually respectful, empathetic, they develop identities outside of the sport - contrary to what the mainstream narrative tells us - they know how to lose, they are kind and disciplined."

Advnture has reached out to Nike for comment on this story.

Puppi took gold last year in the 100k Vibram Ultra Trail Lago d'Orta as well as three 50k races including the Julian Alps Trail Run by UTMB. His best marathon time is 2:16:18 and he has run a 33-minute vertical kilometer.

• The best running poles: for ultra distance training, epic races, and fastpacking adventures
• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

It's Cyber Monday, and if you're been looking for deals on some of the best-looking Nike trail shoes around, you're in luck. Right now, you can grab the plush Nike Wildhorse 8 trail running shoes for just $98.97 at Nike. That's a healthy savings of 29% off the regular asking price for these shoes, which we loved on the trails last summer.

When I first pulled these shoes out of the box, I'll admit that I was mostly struck by how great they look. So I was extra delighted to pull them on and discover that they are supremely comfortable, too.

On the trails, the plus midsole belies the stability of a rock plate in the forefoot, which helps provide a spring feel to my runs, and the outsoles were impressively grippy when I wore them to tackle some insanely steep and slick limestone trails in Spain.

This deal applies to men's sizing, and there are still quite a few sizes left but we don't expect them to last long. If you're looking for women's sizing, you can find them as cheap as $85.97 (that's 38% off) but there are very few sizes left.

If you're not in the US, scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on Nike Wildhorse 8 trail running shoes where you are.

With an abundance of rugged traction, cushioned responsiveness and trusted containment to help keep you upright, it’s made for tough trail runs, the ones with limitless miles and gnarly terrain that are too enticing to turn down.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best offers on Nike Wildhorse 8 trail running shoes near you:

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• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

Nike isn't exactly known for its hiking boots. Over the years, there have been motions towards the genre with the Jordan 6 in the 1990s then the ACG Rebound, but basically the brand has mostly stuck to what it's great at: running shoes.

That's why it's been surprising to see so much fanfare around the Nike Cygnal hiking boot, which has finally dropped after months of whispers. Sporting a throwback design to simpler times, when hiking boots were rugged yet handsome, the Cygnal sports a clean and simple brown suede upper (that's identical to last year's ACG Magma) with a black leather tongue and green laces.

In terms of aesthetic, it's not far off iconic boots like the Danner Mountain Pass and like a lot of Nike shoes built for the trails (ahem, Zegama 2s), we anticipate seeing a lot of boots around the city this winter.

But is it tough enough to withstand the trails? Nike has made a good effort in trail shoes and we've enjoyed running in models like the Wildhorse 8s, so while they might not have the hiking cred of brands like Danner and Merrell, they definitely understand traction and protection.

Images of the Cygnal reveal what appears to be rugged outsole with big teeth in a herringbone pattern, though it's notably devoid of the yellow Vibram stamp of approval. It's also treated with DWR to withstand some wet weather.

But where the brand always excels is in comfort, and they've clearly taken a leaf out of running's maximalist book as these boots look to sport a foam midsole (Nike's All Terrain Compound) that's well over an inch thick, so no matter where you wear them, you're likely to find some bounce.

Honestly, these boots might be too pretty to risk wearing on the trails, but if you do, let's hope the deliver on their promise of a city-ready design that's ready for all-terrain use.

The Nike Cygnal is available now in men's sizing only in Baroque Brown for $180 at Nike.com

• The best hiking shoes: trail-friendly shoes for all seasons

An Amsterdam-based company that makes bio-based, plastic-free running shoes has dropped a new shoe that it claims to be the "most sustainable running shoe" on the market.

Zen Running Club was founded in 2020 by two former Nike employees, Andy Farnworth and Richard Rusling, and the FUTUREOne is the third shoe they've released. Following on from their mission to set a new industry standard in running shoes using plant-based innovation, the shoe has a higher amount of bio content than any other shoe currently available.

"We see a new generation of runners who demand the best levels of performance, but who are disappointed with products that aren’t as sustainable as they should be," says Rusling, who spent a decade as Nike’s Product Creation Director.

According to a 2020 article in The Guardian, most running shoes and trainers are expected to take up to 1,000 years to break down in landfill due to the popularity of EVA foam in the midsoles. The FUTUREone's midsole is built with the brand's proprietary Project 68 foam, which has a base of 68% rapeseed oil, the highest bio content of any performance foam. It also contains enzymes in the formulation that help expedite its end-of-life breakdown in the landfill.

According to an official press release, the FUTUREOne midsole lasts beyond the recommended 500 km wear time and decomposes in the landfill in just 40 days.

"We always develop products for performance but with an added focus on how innovation and materials science can minimise the impact on our supply chain and the products that we produce," says Farnworth.

The knit upper is made using responsibly sourced eucalyptus fibers, the cultivation of which relies on natural rainfall instead of industrial irrigation. That reportedly uses 95% less water than conventional cotton and has a carbon footprint that is one-third lower than virgin nylon.

This planet-friendly approach to powering athletes may be enough for some runners to scop up a pair, including Dutch Olympian Hans Koeleman, but how does the shoe perform?

"We know that the first thing a runner will look for when buying a new shoe is the cushioning and responsiveness underfoot - especially now where the running community has become more performance-led," says Farnworth.

Certainly, the FUTUREOne appears built for performance, embracing the maximalist trend with a hefty 33 mm stack in the heel for that responsive ride runners seek out. Despite that wedge of foam, it weighs just 298 g underfoot, making it viable for any run from a 5 km to a long weekend run.

"Having worked for some of the biggest sports brands in the world, we know what it takes to create a fantastic running shoe. When people try our shoes they can’t quite believe how good they are."

That said, the shoe has a steep 9 mm drop so it's not built for every runner – or run. If you want to test it for yourself, the FUTUREOne is available now for £180 at www.zenrunningclub.com/gb

Still shopping for sustainable running shoes? We've rounded up some of our favorites below:

• The best trail running shoes 2024: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

Right now, you can snag the men's Reebok Floatride 5 Adventure’s for half price at just £60. But don't sleep on this deal as there are only a few sizes left! A lightweight, versatile shoe, the Adventure 5s are made from synthetic Cordura fabrics. Commonly used for outdoor pursuits, Cordura is capable of withstanding harsh winds and rain, making the Floatride 5s great for trail running.

Receiving a coveted four and a half star rating in our review, we found the pair to be ‘instantly comfortable’, featuring an 0.3in / 8mm drop for a cushioned feel and injury free run. A new lacing system and padded tongue only improve this, providing additional support around the midfoot. 

Half price in the Core Black colorway, this highly rated trail runner can be found in sizes 7 to 9 on the Reebok website. 

• The best trail running shoes 2024 get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• These are best three running shoes I've tested this year

Right now, you can get 30% off the men's version of Salomon's Thundercross Trail Runners, which are now just £98 on the Salomon website. 

Suitable for all manner of terrain, the Thundercross features 5mm lugs, which dig in to provide grip, while their oversize profile and aggressive mold ensures a stable run, walk or hike regardless of the conditions. Typically durable, this pair holds up after several hundred miles of harsh terrain. 

The Energy Foam EVA Midsole and 0.2in / 4mm drop allow for added comfort, creating a cushioned feel and minimising the risk of injury.

Still available in a wide range of sizes, the Thundercross are reduced in the Heather / India Ink / Shocking Orange, Safari / Sulphur Spring / Black, and Plum Kitten / Black / Pink Glo Colorways. 

• The best trail running shoes 2024 get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• These are best three running shoes I've tested this year

Right now, you can pick up the Nike Kiger 9 trail running shoes for just $93.67 at Nike. That's a massive savings of $63 off the list price for these popular shoes, which have received an impressive average rating of five stars among customers.

This shoe is billed as a worthy opponent to rocky trails and technical terrain thanks to a carbon plate sandwiched between a generous amount of EVA foam in the midsole that's designed to deliver responsiveness and all-day comfort. A relatively low drop of 4.5 mm helps with stability while breathable uppers help you run in comfort over long distances and warm days.

Runners who have worn the Kiger 9s say they love the comfort they experience when wearing these shoes on the trail. This deal applies to the men's sizing in the White/Court Blue/Cedar/Black colorway only. You can save 34% on women's sizing in the Sequoia/Emerald Rise/Guava Ice/Amber Brown colorway, however there are only a few sizes left so you'll need to act fast.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on the Nike Kiger 9 trail running shoes where you are.

Not in the US? Here are today's best deals on the Nike Kiger 9 trail running shoes where you are:

• The best trail running shoes 2024: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

Meet the reviewer

Nike Zegama 2 trail running shoes: first impressions 

If you were asked to judge these shoes based on their appearance, you'd swear they were road running shoes with their chunky rocker soles, but they're named for the technical Basque Country trail race and a closer look reveals details that prove the Zegama 2s are built for the rough stuff.

An impressively chunky 39 mm stack of ZoomX foam in the heel is actually slightly lower than their predecessor but you can definitely expect a responsive ride in these shoes, even when you're striding over mud and grass, and they're lighter than they look. The addition of a Vibram Megagrip outsole with chevron lugs means you stick to the trails even on mud and grass.

The uppers are reinforced to offer your toes a little protection against the odd pinecone or prickly bush, but they won't do much when it comes to rocks. Nifty built-in stretchy gaiter cuffs help keep debris out of your socks which is a really nice feature.

Visible holes in the mesh hint at breathability but we did find that our feet got super hot on a warm day and wondered if the lining could be a little more airy.

Meanwhile, we didn't find there was much room inside these shoes for those of us with arches and that combined with the rocker sole and extended heel geometry makes us think these shoes are going to be quite niche, and a pricey pair at that. That said, if they work for your feet you'll find them comfortable trail running shoes most useful for long runs on gravel roads with tarmac sections where you aren't too worried about stability.

They are beautiful and we're willing to bet that enough people will want to wear them as a daily trainer it doesn't matter if they're not built for the majority of trail runners.

Nike Zegama 2 trail running shoes: in the field

I recently received a pair of the Nike Zegama 2s to test from SportsShoes.com. Much like when I tested the Nike Wildhorse 8s, my first thought when I pulled these shoes out of the box was how breathtakingly beautiful they are. My second thought was, "wow that's a lot of cushion!"

I do like bouncy midsoles for road running, which I don't often do, but lately on the trails I've been enjoying the low maintenance feel of the Merrell Long Sky 2 Matryx which have substantially less cushion underfoot and more flex. I haven't tested the first edition of the Zegama model, and this was my first time trying out so much cushion on the trails, but I've given these a few spins on runs where I mix up gravel with grass, mud and some incline to see how they hold up.

Here’s how they performed:

Sizing, fit and comfort

I tested a US 6.5 which gives me an extra half size and I'd say that's a good approach. From looking at these shoes, they don't have a very wide toe box but the extra length meant my toes didn't feel crowded.

The lacing system allows for a reasonably snug fit around my midfoot and the heel delivers an excellent lockdown fit. My main issue with the fit is that the uppers don't offer a ton of height, which means I do experience some issues with comfort once I get out on the trail. They may improve with use, but for my first couple of runs I've experienced some numbness in my toes which is usually a sign there isn't quite enough room for my feet.

Beyond that, there hasn't been any rubbing and of course the cushioning helps these shoes feel really comfortable, but I think those with high arches or wide feet may struggle with the lack of space.

Breathability and protection

The mesh uppers have plenty of holes in them so these look breathable, but between that and my foot is a lining and I suspect that's not as breathable as it could be because at the end of a warm weather run, my feet felt so hot I had to check they weren't smoking. This could be in part down to the socks I was wearing, but I just wore those same socks for a 40 km run in the Alps wearing different shoes and suffered no such issue so I think these shoes may be better suited to cooler weather.

Trail running shoes need to have reinforced uppers to help protect our toes and heels from objects on the trail and these shoes have a moderate amount around the toes, enough to protect against prickly bushes and to protect the shoes themselves, but not enough for really rocky trails. That said, because of the huge stack, I probably wouldn't wear these for technical trails myself so perhaps that's no matter.

Responsiveness, grip and stability 

If it's trail feel you're after, you're barking up the wrong tree, but responsiveness? These shoes have oodles of it thanks to their giant foam midsoles that are stiffer than they look and I even benefitted from that on super soft, grassy trails where I'd usually just feel like I'm sinking in. Though I prefer a bit more trail feel, I wore these on a run where the first half kilometer is tarmac and I did really like that I didn't feel any discomfort. In fact, I think these shoes would be better categorized as road-to-trail running shoes.

On less demanding trails, I enjoyed a nice smooth ride. There's a little flex in the forefoot, but most of the smooth ride feel comes from the rocker soles.

The Vibram soles are a new addition and I've made a point of running down steeper grassy sections where it wasn't super wet but there were still muddy patches and I didn't skid once, which was really a nice surprise. They picked up a little mud on the descent as you can see in the photo above, but by the time I got back to the car I had shed most of that.

As for stability, I think you always lose some with a higher stack and rocker sole, though you can gain some back with a wider geometry and these have an extended heel. On a particularly narrow section of single track I definitely felt precarious and was glad for the use of my running poles, but they're not as unstable as they look, however I think they're best suited for longer runs over gravel roads than technical stuff.

Nike Zegama 2 trail running shoes: the bottom line

If you're actually going to hit the trails in these and not just wear them around town, which I've seen a lot of people doing, they come at quite a high price for what they offer in terms of performance. Yes, they have great grip, comfort for long rides and built-in gaiters, but they're also not suited for technical trails or runners with high arches. If you're seeking something a little more technical but with a decent amount of cushion, check out the Merrell Agility Peak 5s as well.

• How Advnture tests products

Have you ever thought of your sunglasses as a weapon in the psychological war against your racing competitors?

No. Us neither, but Nike apparently has. And the result is two new downright weird pairs of shades – the Nike Athena and Nike Zeus – which are designed to be worn before and after competing with the intention of unsettling opponents.

The Zeus pair look like something a bird-themed supervillain might wear in an R-rated DC movie, but even stranger are the Athena glasses, which are strikingly asymmetrical – if you catch yourself in reflection you might think you’ve wandered into a hall of distorting mirrors by mistake. 

Nike say the glasses are “intended to be worn before and after competition as a form of psychological armor — whether to protect or project”. 

“While we were initially focused on designing something for competition, the insight we heard from our athletes is the need for a mental edge or advantage, before and after competing,” says John Hoke, Nike’s Chief Innovation Officer. “Their ability to get totally into the zone, to be completely focused and undistracted, is so, so critical for these athletes.”

Apparently, according to the press release, “The styles usher in a new level of digital artistry in service of athletes, advancing Nike’s aesthetic horizons while offering contrasting visions of sport’s future.”

The Nike Athena pair is described as “a celebration of asymmetry and expression, with mirroring that wraps from lens to temple… Screwless, ultrasonic bonds and stainless-steel temples (or arms) contribute to a lightweight frame, which positions the lens further from the face to help eliminate the ‘lash crash’ sometimes caused by shallower sunglasses.” 

Meanwhile, the Nike Zeus pair is, “inspired by traditional acupressure points and the look of ‘speed’ – an enduring Nike fixation… Mask-like and worn close to the face, Nike Zeus builds on the innovative ventilation of the Nike Windshield Elite 360, with intricate, fluted perforations increasing airflow to help eliminate heat pockets around the nose and cheekbones while directing heat away from the eyes.”

Both styles incorporate recycled materials; at least 40% of Nike Athena’s total weight and 20% of Nike Zeus.

So just what is the line between fashion victim and sartorial psyche assassin? Well, if you want to find out be prepared to put your hand deep in your pocket. The Nike Athena cost $250 (US) / £219.99 (UK) and the Nike Zeus are $500 (US) / £409.99 (UK). Both designs will be available globally on Nike digital platforms from today (July 24).

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Normally when you think of Nike and camping together, it’s visions of sneakerheads camping outside shoe stores waiting for the latest drop. But now the brand has come up with a whole new camping concept – an oversized poncho that transforms into a one-person tent.

The converta-jacket has been released as part of Nike’s ISPA Summer 2024 collection, which also included padded hoodies and trekking pants. But the real eye-catcher was the Metamorph Poncho.

After all who needs a hiking backpack when you can wear your tent to the campsite?

The Nike ISPA poncho is made from water-repellent lightweight nylon layers and features functional zippers and adjustable straps for a genuinely versatile setup. It’s also voluminous. Honestly it looks like there’s enough material to wrap round yourself three or four times. Or, you know, to make a tent. Which you can do because collapsible tent poles and a manual are included. When fully erect, neat geometric patterns decorate the interior's nylon walls.

There is a catch, though. It’s not going to be challenging any of the tents in our best one-person tents buying guide, because it’s not waterproof (your alarm bells may have been ringing when we mentioned above that the jacket was “water-repellant”).

Instead, Nike is calling it a “sun-shading tent”, so something more suited to one-day festivals when you might want some shade rather than an epic, multi-day trek. If it’s any kind of success, though, and not just a gimmick, maybe Nike would consider a waterproof version.

But it does have one last trick up its sleeve. The Nike ISPA Metamorph Poncho can also transform into a carryable bag.

And all for the price of roughly $620. The Nike ISPA Metamorph Poncho is available now at retailers including like END, Livestock and BSTN.

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There are some big changes on the way – this year and next – for Nike’s best-selling line of running shoes, the Pegasus, with a radical new design for the Nike Pegasus 41, and a glossy makeover with the Nike Pegasus Premium in 2025. Both were announced by Nike yesterday.

The Nike Pegasus 41 will arrive this summer boasting a significant shape change in the sole unit over the Pegasus 40, and ReactX foam in place of the old React foam. The proprietary material forms a full-length midsole with Zoom Air units at the forefoot and heel and, compared to its X-less predecessor, features a 13% gain in energy return and a 43% drop in its carbon footprint. The sole has more rounded lines and an opaque bubble where Air Zoom is applied at the forefoot.

An even more radical makeover for the range will come in 2025 with the high-end Pegasus Premium – which looks like a sneaker designed by Apple.

The sleek running shoe will feature the series’ first-ever visible, sculpted Air Zoom unit. Running from the heel to just shy of the toe end, this Air Zoom unit delivers what Nike says is the most “efficient, responsive” sensation of any Zoom cushioning system to date. 

The midsole also boasts both ZoomX and ReactX foam that’s targeted at the heel, to complete a sole system with the greatest energy return in the Pegasus franchise to date.

“Air is Nike’s separator in the footwear industry – no one can create cushioning innovations like we can,” says Kathy Gomez, Nike VP NXT Footwear. “In running, when we combine Air with components like midfoot plates and with platforms like our proprietary foams, we create superior systems for performance. For the Peg Premium, we wanted runners to get the most energy return possible out of the sculpted Air Zoom unit. Not only does it double as a spring-like mechanism, the Air unit is also designed to engage with the entirety of your foot, no matter your gait pattern or stride length.”

We’re entirely sure if the Premium will come with interior lighting as standard like in the publicity still, though.

Nike has recently been criticized for a lack of innovation in its footwear, relying instead on heritage models to drive revenue, so will this brace of running sneakers convince runners that the brand has something new to offer, or are the changes mostly aesthetic?

Pricing on both shoes has yet to be be announced.

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Nike’s king-of-street-cred Air Max Plus sneaker now has trail cred too. Nike has reinvented one of its most iconic shoes as a hiking boot, complete with its very own backpack. No, really… we’re not kidding. Welcome to the Nike Air Max Plus Hiker.

But if any company can convince edgy rappers that an idea you’d have thought was more suited to tweenage girls’ roller shoes is, in fact, the height of cool for the trails, it’s Nike. Hell, you have to have somewhere to stash your, um, essential medication.

Other outdoor-worthy upgrades to the Nike Air Max Plus sneaker include an extended zip-up overlay for the upper, which is claimed to make the shoe waterproof – reviewers will be quick to test that, we’re sure. The new overlay zips open to reveal the iconic sneaker’s traditional lace system.

The Air Max Plus’s distinct sole is also evident in the boot’s base, though embellished with a rusty crackled design. The actual grip on the sole doesn’t appear to make many concessions to the kind of heavily lugged mud grippers normally seen on the best trail shoes, but again, let’s see what the reviewers have to say about that. We only have images to go on for the moment.

The famous Nike swoosh on the Air Max Plus Hiker comes in a very striking aged-bronze effect that Nike calls “Patina”. The mini-backpacks feature a similar verdigris-stippled bronze swoosh. Because nothing says hiking like oxidized pipes. (It does look cool, though, and we think the whole point here is cool rather than practical.)

There are no release details for the Nike Air Max Plus Hiker yet, but with Nike blasting it all across the social, expect to see your favorite recording artists trekking the Pacific Crest trail in them soon. Possibly.

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Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 4: first impressions

The Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 4 (also known as the Nike InfinityRN 4) is a highly cushioned and good-looking road running shoe. Its sock-like construction means the upper stretches to fit your foot, with different patterns used in different places to adjust the amount of 'give'. Looking at the upper, you'll see stripes of more densely woven material across the top of the foot, resulting in less stretch, while the end of the toebox is much more yielding.

The fit is generous across the upper and toebox, but Nike recommends going up half a size to be on the safe side. There's also an extra wide fit model available if you need extra space.

The laces are thin with little stretch, and the tongue is only padded at the top, near your ankle. Ordinarily this might be a recipe for uncomfortable pressure on top of your foot, but the flexibility of the Flyknit material prevents any discomfort.

The InfinityRN 4 is the first shoe to use Nike's updated ReactX foam, which the company says gives 13% more energy return. It's shaped using injection molding rather than compression molding, which uses less energy and therefore reduces emissions from the manufacturing process. Basically, instead of taking a big piece of foam and squishing it down into the required shape, the new process involves taking a piece of hard material and 'foaming' it until it expands to fit the same space.

The resulting midsole is firm rather than bouncy, with a mild rocker shape better suited to everyday training than fast racing.

It's available in a decent range of colorways, but if you're not a fan of the standard options you can create your own custom design via the By You design tool on Nike's website.

Nike Infinity Run Flyknit 4: on the road

This review sample was provided by SportsShoes.com, and has been put through some serious miles during my training for the Manchester Marathon.

The overall feel is that of a stable daily trainer. The rocker sole unit has a generous stack height, but the new foam is on the firmer side and doesn't feel mushy at lower speeds, making this a comfortable and practical option for long, slow miles. However, the outsized heel and high drop are an acquired taste, meaning you might make contact with the ground sooner than you'd expect.

The outsole has enough tread to provide good traction in wet weather. It was even reasonably grippy when a club run took an unexpected detour into a muddy wood, though if you're going to be running in the rain regularly I'd recommend opting for the Gore-Tex version. The standard FlyKnit material isn't water-resistant, although it does clean up well if you give it an accidental mud bath.

The material takes some getting used to though, being thicker and heavier than the mesh of most road runners. The variable stretch is a little strange, too. My big toes are a little upturned, and made visible 'poke' marks in the upper. From past experience I suspect that will be the first part of the shoe to wear out, but it could have been mitigated by continuing the bands of denser knit fabric further down towards the toe.

The insole is nice and smooth with quite minimal arch support, which is a refreshing change after testing the more aggressively designed Saucony Endorphin Shift 3.

The shoe is cut low around the ankle, and combined with the stretchy upper, this led to some slipping when I picked up the pace. Thankfully this was easily mitigated by making a heel lock, which the laces are long enough to accommodate.

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Nike has launched a new performance trail running shoe, the Ultrafly Trail, which is its first with both a carbon plate and VIbram sole for extra speed and grip.

The Ultrafly Trail is a premium shoe made specifically for racing and setting FKTs, and was designed with input from Nike's elite trail athletes. It's been in development since 2021, when Nike began working closely with ultra runner and coach Tyler Green to make a shoe for speed off-road.

Green logged over 1,000 miles in the shoes throughout training, and wore them for three top-five finishes in the Western States Endurance Run – the world's oldest 100-mile race.

The Ultrafly Trail is the result of a partnership with Vibram, and features an all-new sole design using Vibram Litebase technology. This helps conserve energy be reducing weight by up to 30% and sole thickness by up to 50%, without sacrificing grip or durability.

The outsole also uses Vibram Traction Lug tread to increase the amount of rubber in contact with the ground, and is made using the company's MegaGrip compound for grip on wet and dry terrain.

The Ultrafly Trail's carbon Flyplate is sandwiched between the shoe's ZoomX foam and fabric-wrapped midsole, where it proves extra energy return and forward propulsion.

The shoe will be available in limited numbers in Europe from July 27, and will be on sale for all runners from August direct from Nike and from selected third-party stores.

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Nike has debuted a new road running shoe designed for runners who mix different speeds in their training. The Nike Motiva is made with new runners in mind – particularly those whose training involves switching between periods of running, jogging, and walking.

Most running plans for beginners (such as couch to 5k) involve a mix of speeds, alternating running and walking, and gradually building up to running for an extended time. The Nike Motiva has been designed to help make those transitions smoother, using data from over 1,000 runners who train this way.

There are several features that make the Motiva different from a more typical running shoe. For example, Nike found that people moving at a slower pace are more likely to be hard heel-strikers, so the new shoe has an exaggerated rocker shape to encourage smooth energy transfer, and help the foot roll forward naturally.

Keep on moving

The shoe also has extra soft midsole foam cushioning, which helps absorb the force of a heavier heel strike. There's also a specially textured outsole, with soft ComfortGroove bumps that compress in areas of particularly high impact.

The overall idea is to transfer as much energy as possible, helping new runners feel less fatigued and encouraging them to keep going.

The Motiva will be available in May for £99.95 (US prices have yet to be confirmed). It will come in both men's and women's sizes, in a range of subtle and bright colors.

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Nike Wildhorse 8 trail running shoes: first impressions

The Nike Wildhorse 8 are trail running shoes built for long days out, when you want to prioritize comfort. They are easily one of the most comfortable trail running shoes around.

The plush feeling of these shoes is delivered by a React Foam midsole and roomy toe box, which makes them comfortable enough out-of-the-box for wearing around town, while a rock plate adds protection and responsive stability when the trail gets a little rough. With an 8mm drop, these shoes are likely to be coveted by heel strikers first and foremost, while any runner will benefit from the secure lacing system that locks your foot in place.

Not only are these shoes lightweight, they are outstandingly stylish, so you might end up keeping them for casual use instead of tearing them up on the trail (though they aren’t the most breathable when things heat up).

If you are hitting the trail in them, you’ll benefit from the grippy soles on slick terrain, but be aware that the uppers won’t provide as much protection for your feet against sharp rocks than more rugged technical trail shoes. Save these for long days on mellow trails.

Nike Wildhorse 8 trail running shoes: in the field

I haven’t run in a pair of Nikes for about 15 years now, and I’ve never tried any of the company's trail running shoes, so I was excited to find out what advances they’ve made in their running footwear when I was offered a pair to test out from SportsShoes.com. I’ve been wearing these shoes for about a month now on the trails in Scotland and love their out-of-the-box comfort so much that I ended up wearing them for travel and hiking on a recent trip to Spain.

Here’s how they performed:

Sizing and fit

These shoes fit true to size (I wear a UK 4 and tested a 4) and they have a roomy toe box that feels great for me. My feet are neither wide nor narrow, so I’m not sure if they’d feel too roomy for a narrow foot, but a sock-like tongue construction and secure lacing system means you can comfortably lace them up to stay put when you’re in motion, and it helps keep out gravel, too.

Comfort

Aside from the fact that these are a great-looking pair of shoes, the thing I love most about them is how comfortable they are. They feel like running in clouds and I went for 10k in them on the first day with not a hint of a hot spot. The sole is plush and bouncy, but there’s a decent degree of responsiveness in them too, plus they’re really light weight which makes them great for long runs. I’ve even tried them out on a few tarmac adventures and really like how they absorb the shock of the harder surface.

Breathability

Nike claims these shoes are breathable, and the uppers are certainly mesh, but I must say when I wore them on a warm weather hike in Spain, I actually did notice my feet getting sweatier than I’d like. I don’t notice this when I’m running, partly because Scotland has had an extra cold spring, but for everyday wear I wish they were a bit more breathable. I did recently get a good soak in them when running on a grassy surface in the rain, and I was pleased to see how quickly they dried out, so I think they're great for wet weather as long as it's not too cold out.

Grip and protection

The soles on these shoes have deep lugs. I put their grip to the test on the Penon in Spain, which is steep, slick limestone rock that rises straight up out of the sea. I’ve hiked it dozens of times over the last 30 years and I know it’s as slippery as a dry trail can be, and these shoes stood up better than any I’ve tried before.

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Nike has launched a new version of its premium Invincible road running shoe, with a tougher and lighter upper, and thicker midsole foam for a comfier ride.

Some premium racing shoes compromise on durability in order to save weight, but with the Invincible 3, Nike has tried to strike a happy balance. The redesigned Flyknit upper is made up of layers of yarn, which are intended to be lightweight, breathable, and supportive, but also tough enough to withstand the long miles of regular training runs.

The shoe has a rocker-shaped midsole made using proprietary Nike ZoomX foam. The shape is intended to provide support during heel strike, as your foot rolls, and at take-off.

The foam is noticeably thicker that that of the Invincible 2, and the new show has an updated, outsized profile for more stability with each stride.

The shoe will be available from February 2 for Nike members, and for everyone else from February 9. It will be priced at £170 (about $210). 

• Best trail running shoes: tested for grip, comfort, and protection