If you’re looking for an excellent pair of sneakers for your daily morning run, here is a list of the best performing Nike Air Zoom running shoes released in 2020.
The Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next% is one of 2020’s best running shoes. (Photo via Keller Sports)
Nike’s Air Zoom technology has been the gold standard of almost every sports sneaker there is. Originally named as “Tensile Air” before its debut in 1995, Air Zoom provides its users with a cushioning line that is popular for its flexibility and lightweight feel.
Nike continues to bring in more iterations of the Air Zoom tech, particularly in the evolution of the brand’s wide array of running shoes. 2020 is not an exemption as Nike fans received a treat of new Air Zoom versions for their running needs.
Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next%
The Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next% released last October 2020. (Photo via Sneaker News)
Speed is the name of the game for the Tempo Next%. While it is best suited for sprints than marathons, its durability is still enough for your everyday morning runs. However, if you plan to go on long runs with the Tempo Next%, you might get a bit disappointed. Along with the Zoom Air tech, Nike also put in a React foam, making the pair bouncy when you are running on short, quick bursts. That puts more firmness in the pair, which will tire your feet out during long runs.
Having said that, the Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next% is built for speed workouts as it will give you that quick, bouncy feel that will help you launch forward faster.
Price: US$211
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 launched last April 2020. (Photo via Bike 24)
Nike advertised the Pegasus 37 as an everyday running shoe, and it didn’t disappoint. The 37s have added 2mm more foam than its predecessor, mainly due to the new React foam that Nike placed on it. The added foam helps the pair to cushion impact effectively, making it more durable when used everyday, even in long runs.
The common problem with the Pegasus 37 is that it fits tightly around the foot, but it will get more comfortable after a couple of break-ins.
Price: US$120
Nike Air Zoom Structure 23
The Nike Air Zoom Structure 23 is a definite upgrade over the Structure 22. (Photo via RunRepeat)
Many runners have complained every bit about the Structure 22s, so Nike delivered a different but definite upgrade. The Air Zoom Structure 23 featured new components in the upper, the midsole, and the outsole. So basically, Nike changed almost everything, and that is for the best. The Structure 23 will give you a smooth, comfortable ride on your daily runs.
The only complaint about the 23s is that the additional layers on its upper depleted the pair’s breathability feature. Still, it’s a far better version than its predecessor as the Nike Air Zoom Structure 23 is one of the most flexible running shoes this year.
Price: $120
Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 6
The Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 6 released last March 2020. (Photo via Top 4 Running)
If you’re a fan of rocky trail running and cross country tracks, then the Terra Kiger 6 is the perfect pair for you. Nike built this shoe mainly for outdoor trail tracks, and its flexibility is arguably one of the best of its kind. The cushioning of the Terra Kiger 6 is very responsive, which will provide you added speed even when running through a rocky terrain.
The drawback of this pair is that its flexible and responsive structure led to a decrease in protective cushioning line. But if you’re going for fast workouts on the terrain, the Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 6 is the right choice.
Price: US$112
Nike Air Zoom Winflo 7
The Nike Air Zoom Winflo 7 is an affordable, quality choice for everyday runners. (Photo from Nike)
The Winflo 7 didn’t have a vast difference from its predecessor, but the new pair’s upgraded mesh and increased foam provide more comfort to its users. Although it’s true that nothing specific really stands out from the Winflo 7, it delivers a solid and balanced performance that endures long runs.
If you’re looking for both quality and affordability, the Nike Air Zoom Winflo 7 will give you the best bang for your buck.
Price: US$103
Nike Air Zoom Wildhorse 6
The Nike Air Zoom Wildhorse 6 launched last March 2020. (Photo via Believe In The Run)
Similar with the Terra Kiger 6s, the Wildhorse 6 is also a pair built for running on trails. The ankle collar immediately stands out in the Wildhorse 6, giving it one of the best designs among trail shoes.
But the Wildhorse 6 is not just about the aesthetics. The React foam in the midsole added more responsiveness, and the durability of its mesh upper is world-class. If you want an all-around running shoe that you can also use for training, the Nike Air Zoom Wildhorse 6 is the way to go.
Price: US$130
