If you want high quality women’s shoes for exercise or casual wear, Nike is a top brand. Women’s Nike shoes are like men’s shoes, but due to differences in foot anatomy, they differ in size and generally have a narrower construction.
The best Nike shoes for women, like the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes, are durable yet light enough to be worn comfortably for long periods of time. They are very responsive; have an elegant and traditional look; and are excellent for walking and running.
What to know before buying Nike shoes for women
Size and cut
You might find a pair of shoes attractive, but they won’t do you any good if they don’t fit properly. A lot Nike women’s shoes Have a slender silhouette with a narrow last, so if you have a wide foot, consider buying a size up or looking for shoes with a wider last.
Your shoes should fit snugly, but you won’t be comfortable for long if they’re too tight and your feet may even hurt. On the other hand, shoes that are too big increase the risk of tripping, so make sure your shoes fit properly.
Sport, walking or exercise?
If you want casual shoes for walking or exercising, tennis-style running shoes are your best bet. Nike running shoes are great all-around shoes, but they are not suitable for cold weather. If you need shoes for a specific sport, you’ll need shoes designed for that.
Ankle orientation: overpronation vs supination
Your ankles may have an overpronate or supinate orientation. The pronated ankles roll slightly inward while the supinated ones roll outward. If you find shoes uncomfortable because of either, you can often order them with a custom fit for an additional cost.
What to Look for in Quality Nike Women’s Shoes
Midsole cushioning
Cushioning in the midsole is necessary for comfort, especially if you wear your shoes for long periods of time. Without it, you will quickly develop foot pain and, if you are an athlete, it will affect your performance. Most Nike sports shoes have plenty of soft foam cushioning in the midsole, which allows you to wear them comfortably and provides superior responsiveness when you walk.
Breathable upper
Whether you use them for exercise or for casual wear, you want your shoes to be well ventilated. The upper should be made with a breathable material such as a mesh fabric. Nike incorporates the exclusive Flyknit construction in some of its shoes which reduces waste during manufacturing by 60% and makes them very light shoes.
Style and color
There are several styles of Nike shoes for women. Some are optimized for running and have a narrow design, while others have a tennis-inspired look and are more fashionable for casual wear. You can also choose from hundreds of color patterns, so they have a custom look that matches your taste and style.
How much you can expect to spend on women’s Nike shoes
You can get a high-quality pair of Nike shoes for $50-100, but shoes that are exclusive or made with more durable materials can set you back $100-250.
Nike Women’s Shoes FAQ
How can I minimize the risk of injury when wearing Nike shoes?
A. Wearing the right size can greatly reduce the risk of injury, but you should also wear shoes with plenty of cushioning if you’re using them for running or exercising. Also, make sure your shoes provide a secure fit with enough ankle support.
How do you clean Nike shoes?
A. You can remove stains with a damp cloth and dust and dirt with a dry cloth. Avoid washing them in the washing machine as this can compromise their quality and construction.
What are the best Nike shoes for women to buy?
Best Nike Shoes for Women
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes
What do you want to know: They’re lightweight and comfortable with a sleek design, making them perfect for moderate exercise and long-distance runs.
What you will love: They have multiple perforations on the upper for maximum ventilation and breathability, and an aerodynamic design for greater responsiveness and mobility. The insole has soft foam padding for comfort and the insole molds to the shape of your foot.
What you should consider: The lack of sufficient ankle support can hurt runners over time, and some have found the toe box too narrow.
Or buy: Sold by Amazon
Best Women’s Nike Shoes for the Money
What do you want to know: They have a classic tennis-inspired look and are suitable for casual wear or exercise.
What you will love: They are made with high quality leather for a durable construction. The outsole provides excellent traction and is fused with the midsole for a clean, fashionable appearance. The insole has foam cushioning for comfort and the heel features stylish embossed Nike lettering.
What you should consider: The outsole is thin compared to other athletic shoes, so some might find them uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time.
Or buy: Sold by Kohls and Dick Sporting Goods
Worth checking out
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 Running Shoes
What do you want to know: They’re super lightweight, have a secure fit for superior comfort while running, and feature a colorful, flashy design.
What you will love: Flyknit upper and forefoot layers make these shoes breathable, and Flywire technology provides extra midfoot stability and comfort. The heel has foam padding and a molded exterior for added support. They are very responsive during strides and provide a soft landing on contact.
What you should consider: They aren’t as durable as some other Nike running shoes and they run small, so it’s best to buy a size up.
Or buy: Sold by Dick Sporting Goods
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Kevin Luna written for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their buying decisions, saving them time and money.
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