Nike Pegasus 41 review: The best value running shoe for most people

Telegraph

16-04-2025

What are the Pegasus 41 running trainers?
Released in June 2024, the 41s are the latest Nike Pegasus trainers. They're one of the brand's most popular running shoes, with the first version having been released in 1982. They've gone through some major changes since then, and the shoe was even dropped for a couple of years, but by 2001 they were a bestseller with $19 million worth of pairs being sold.
This upgrade, available in 17 colours, sees the brand using ReactX foam cushioning for the first time, while the upper mesh has also been engineered to be more breathable. The trainers are particularly popular with neutral runners.
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How we test trainers
As a health and fitness journalist, I'm always in the gym or running, so I tested these trainers during both activities. When I was running I diversified the terrains I covered – from gravel and sand to grass – to assess their performance on various surfaces.
I looked at the comfort, alongside the design aesthetics of the shoes and also paid close attention to their durability, particularly how well they maintained their condition after multiple runs. From a runner's perspective, I evaluated crucial aspects such as shock absorption, stability during runs and overall support provided by the shoe.
Comfort and design
Score: 9/10
The 41s have a chunkier sole and upper knit which wraps around the whole trainer, compared to the previous version. Unlike other running shoes, they're also slimline enough to wear with a pair of jeans.
The Nike Pegasus 41 trainers were comfortable when I initially tried them on. The padded collar and tongue felt snug, and the toe box was roomy. The upgraded mesh and sock liner kept my feet cool and dry, even when I was pushing the pace. The extra padding around the ankle and heel meant there were no blisters or hot spots, even on my longest runs.
However, it took me a while to adjust to the neutral feel of the midsole during my runs, as I slightly overpronate. The shoe's well-cushioned heel, measuring in at 37mm, enhanced their comfort.
I reviewed the white version of the trainers, which didn't stay as pristine for long, particularly after a muddy bike ride and a few winter runs through trails. I'd recommend choosing a darker colour if you want to use them for similar activities. Thankfully there's a wide variety of options with 17 different colours and designs.
Bounce and shock absorption
Score: 9/10
In 2010 the line introduced Air Zoom, a cushioning system which is said to help with speed and agility – this improved my heel-to-toe progression as I ran, but I'm not sure it made me faster.
New for the 41 is the brand ReactX foam cushioning, which is said to enhance energy return, and as you can see from the video, the bounce on the heel was very responsive. They definitely gave a spring to my step and enhanced my stride, but other brands such as HOKA's Bondi 9 and Brook's Glycerin Max are just as responsive and give you more energy return, especially when you're struggling to finish those last couple of kilometres during a race.
The foam cushioning also features Air Zoom pods under the heel and forefoot, which provide excellent shock absorption. I could barely feel the ground impact as I ran on both pavements and trails.
Durability
Score: 10/10
I put these trainers through a lot on a fitness holiday, running along the beach, cycling through muddy puddles and even jumping through tyres – so, of course, they're no longer as pristine as they were when I got them out of the box.
They also showed how versatile and durable they are; although now a shade of white-ish brown, the outsoles show no sign of wear, while the upper mesh is still in good condition. The mesh tore after six months or so on a previous iteration of Pegasus trainers which I own, so I'll be interested to see if the case is the same with the 41s.
Ground feel and responsiveness
Score: 9/10
The heel stack comes in at 37mm, which means a lot of cushioning around the heel, which I appreciated. I barely noticed the ground and they felt so responsive as I pounded the pavements. I'm a heel striker and overpronater, so they cushioned my heels well as I ran. The heel-to-toe drop is only 10mm, meaning there is lots of cushion in the front of the shoe too.
The outsole of these trainers, crafted from a layer of rubber and moulded with the distinctive Pegasus waffle pattern, delivered an impressive grip. Even when venturing off-road onto trails and encountering muddy conditions, their traction control was consistent and reliable.
Stability
Score: 7/10
The Nike Pegasus 41 is designed for neutral feet which do not show excessive pronation or supination (outward rolling). As someone who slightly overpronates when they run (which means my foot lands on the outside of the heel and then rolls inwards), I took a while to adjust.
To begin with I could feel an ache in my foot arch, especially when I ran more than 3k in them. I found my feet needed some time to mould into Nike's midsole and adjust, which they did after a few miles, but I also ensured I didn't wear them on longer runs to avoid injury or discomfort. If you do overpronate, more supportive shoes such as Brooks Glycerin Max could fit better – when I tested these my feet immediately adapted.
Technical specifications
As a neutral running shoe that suits both long-distance and speed running, there are few trainers more versatile than the Nike Pegasus 41s. One shoe that comes close is the Puma Velocity Nitro 3, which is slightly cheaper and lighter, with the same heel-to-toe drop. Here's how they stack up:
Should you buy the Nike Pegasus 41 trainers?
The Nike Pegasus 41 is a great all-rounder, especially for shorter distances. The heel stack and bounce from the ReactX foam cushioning and Air Zoom are impressive, while the design and comfort of the shoe are excellent. However, as it's a neutral footing shoe, it's not for everyone, so definitely try before you buy, especially if you overpronate, like me.
Yes if:
You want impressive grip
You run shorter distances
You want good bounce from your cushioning
No if:
You overpronate
You don't want a neutral fitting shoe
You run longer distances
Nike Pegasus 41 FAQs
Does the Nike Pegasus 41 run true to size?
Yes, the Nike Pegasus 41 running shoes run true to size, and are available in standard and wide widths.
Are the Nike Pegasus 41 shoes good for long-distance running?
Yes, the responsive cushioning and supportive design make the Nike Pegasus 41s good for long-distance running.
Are the Nike Pegasus 41 running shoes waterproof?
No, the standard Nike Pegasus 41 shoes are not waterproof, although you can buy the GORE-TEX versions for £144.99, which are waterproof.