Pegasus Trail 5: Nike's successful legacy for city and mountain domination

Sometimes, finding trail running shoes that fit both long-distance training and short sessions at a more agile pace can be an almost impossible mission. But do not despair, because there are options; these are interesting and from RUNNEA we tell you about one of them.

One of the models that has been gaining followers for its ability to adapt to different terrains and running styles is the Nike Pegasus Trail saga. Launched in 2024, the Nike Pegasus Trail 5 has become that trail running shoe that aims to combine the legacy of the Pegasus line on asphalt with the demands of today's trail running. Our editorial team has set a specific goal: to analyze its strengths and improvements to give you a complete overview of what you'll find in this fifth version of the Pegasus Trail.

The successful legacy of the Pegasus family also conquering the mountains

The "Pegasus" name has always been synonymous with reliability and comfort in the road running shoes segment. For years, the Pegasus family has been one of the icons in Nike's offering for runners of all kinds. Not long ago, the Oregon brand decided to transfer that fame to the trail territory, giving birth to the first Pegasus Trail -initially named Nike Pegasus 36 Trail, and released in 2019-.

Over several versions, we have seen how they adjusted their design for off-road conditions, without forgetting the essence that has made them so popular among lovers of distances over asphalt:

• A comfortable tread.
• Balanced cushioning.
• Versatility to cope with different paces and surfaces.

With the arrival of the Pegasus Trail 5, Nike takes another step forward in the convergence between the world of trail running and the heritage of the Pegasus saga. This new version consolidates the experience accumulated in previous editions and enhances it with technologies designed specifically for the runner who alternates surfaces and is looking for a versatile option that can be used in most situations.

What makes the Nike Pegasus Trail 5 stand out?

As we have already mentioned, this latest version of the Pegasus Trail 5 saga has as a great advantage: its versatility. But at a technological level they also have the latest and most cutting-edge innovations of the company with the "Swoosh". Namely:

ReactX, a leap in cushioning.

One of the key elements of these Nike Pegasus Trail 5 is the introduction of ReactX foam. Previously, the Pegasus Trail had relied on the familiar React foam, but now, with ReactX, we find a number of quite remarkable improvements:

• 13% higher energy return: Nike claims that ReactX offers a more lively and dynamic response in each stride. This means that, when you take your foot off the ground, you get that little boost that makes the run feel more agile and with less fatigue.
• Reduced carbon footprint by 43%: It is interesting to see how Nike seeks, in addition to improving performance, to take steps towards more sustainable manufacturing. ReactX significantly reduces the environmental impact compared to the previous foam.
• Increased elasticity and amount of cushioning: This point is coupled with energy return, resulting in a footprint that feels soft without being overly so, and responds appropriately when you need to pick up the pace, or even navigate more demanding terrain.

Improved upper for breathability and protection

Another aspect that gets a makeover in the Pegasus Trail 5 is the upper. You know that the upper of the shoe influences the breathability, durability and foot support. Nike Trail has decided to redesign the mesh with different densities depending on the area:

• Increased breathability in critical areas: especially in the toe and side areas, where more heat is concentrated and more sweat is produced. With this open mesh, air circulates better, avoiding the accumulation of moisture and reducing the risk of blisters.
• Tighter fabric reinforcements in heavy-wear areas: The big toe and midfoot are often critical points in trail running, because we hit roots, rocks or branches. Adding a denser fabric in these areas helps extend the life of the shoe and protects the foot from minor bumps.
• Updated Flywire containment system: Nike's signature Flywire fit also receives improvements. The goal is to keep the foot secure without becoming uncomfortable or limiting freedom of movement. This balances the support needed for running on uneven terrain with a comfortable feel.

That is why the upper maintains the style of the Pegasus Trail family, but with details that seek to optimize the trail experience: not too stiff so as to not be uncomfortable, nor too flexible to not lose protection. The result is a design that, at first glance, inspires the feeling of durability and adaptability to the different conditions that can be found in the mountain.

All Terrain Compound (ATC) outsole: traction for various terrains

The outsole receives a more powerful redesign than in previous editions of the Nike Pegasus Trail 4, featuring the Nike Trail ATC (All Terrain Compound) rubber. The mission of this compound is to increase grip capacity on varied surfaces, including loose dirt, gravel, wet rock or even asphalt areas that appear on the route. The following features stand out:

• Improved directional traction: this is especially noticeable when climbing or descending slopes. The lugs are arranged to provide grip in different directions, reducing the risk of slipping.
• Generative pattern: Nike applies a design that combines different reliefs in the rubber to better adapt to changes in terrain. With this, it seeks to improve contact with the ground and ensure stability in each support.
• Forefoot reinforcement: In the forefoot, where the foot needs good flexion and grip to propel itself, a denser rubber has been added to resist abrasion and optimize traction. The lugs are distributed in such a way that the runner feels in control during changes of direction or in more technical sections.

Everything we've told you about the ATC outsole makes it clear that it plays a key role in the versatility of this Nike trail running shoe. It allows you to run on forest trails, loose rocky trails or even asphalt without feeling out of place or insecure.

Nike Pegasus Trail 5 Technical Specifications

To all this technological application, we must also add that the Nike Pegasus Trail 5 has technical specifications with a drop of 9.5 mm and a weight of 300 grams in the men's version, and 243 grams in trail running shoes for women. These figures are not out of place in the segment of multi-purpose trail running shoes for medium and long distances. The moderate drop helps to transition naturally from road to trail, especially if you come from traditional Pegasus models for city running.

Who are the Nike Pegasus Trail 5 recommended for?

In the section on the profile of the ideal runner of these renewed Nike Pegasus Trail 5, from RUNNEA we think they are suitable for:

• Those looking for an all-in-one shoe: for daily training in the mountains, middle distance races and, why not, a 10K or half marathon on mixed surfaces.
• Intermediate weight runners: up to 80-85 kilos, who want protection and comfort in the tread, without sacrificing agile response, when the body asks for it.
• People who value generous but responsive cushioning: ReactX gives you that extra reactivity that you don't always find in very cushioned models.
• Those who don't go into ultra-technical terrain: For wide trails, forest trails and some road sections, this shoe works very well.

Gore-Tex version of Nike Pegasus Trail 5: All-weather ready.

If weather conditions are often a determining factor on your trail routes or you live in an area where rain and humidity are common, you may be interested in the Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GTX. This variant includes a Gore-Tex membrane, famous for its ability to keep the foot dry while allowing sweat to wick away. The main advantages are:

• Proven waterproofing: It achieves good water insulation, ideal for running in areas where you cross puddles or shallow rivers, or simply on rainy days.
• Extra protection: Not only does it protect against moisture, but it also provides some extra support in the upper.

Admittedly, the presence of the Gore-Tex membrane may slightly affect breathability and add a few grams to the final weight, but if your training conditions require it, this variant of the Nike Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-Tex is worth considering. Plus, it's clear to see that its design will also allow you to run in style, which is Oregon's trademark.

Nike Pegasus Trail 5 and its balance between comfort and performance.

If you are looking for shoes that allow you to train regularly in the mountains, alternate with asphalt sections and, above all, enjoy a remarkable cushioning without the weight soaring, the Pegasus Trail 5 is a very interesting option. Don't forget that they offer the legendary comfort of the Pegasus lineage.

The runner of average weight, with varied paces and who does not compete in very technical terrain, will find in these Nike Pegasus Trail 5 a great ally for most of their outdoor adventures, whether running and/or walking.

The final assessment of the Nike Pegasus Trail 5 is a balanced option between performance and comfort, maintaining a legacy that has worked on asphalt and taking it with great success to the mountains. It is proof that Nike continues to make a strong commitment to trail running, refining every element to offer a pleasant and safe experience both in training and in fun runs. It is a travel companion that adapts to different environments and can surely surprise you if you give it a chance.