About this deal
Consider sizing half or whole size up, or avoiding altogether if you have a wide foot (the same size shoe in the Nike React Miler has a much wider toe box). If you’re not running too many miles each week, and don’t require the latest technology to shave seconds off your PB, the Downshifter 11 could be a great starting point.
Most of all, if saving some money is what you care about at the moment, you can’t really go wrong with this shoe. It’s also a lot lighter than both the Vaporfly and Alphafly, which again points to the Streakfly’s role as a short distance shoe. It all adds up to a springy and speedy ride that only feels better the faster you run in the shoe, but the slightly strange sensation produced by the different foams, the plate and the pods might not suit every runner.The Downshifter 10 is designed for runners on a budget, who want a shoe from a top trusted brand, that looks the part and ticks boxes when it comes to performance. It still has a high stack of ZoomX cushioning but, at 33mm, it’s lower than the Vaporfly or Alphafly, creating a more stable ride that’s great for short distance events like 5Ks and 10Ks where you’re haring around corners at speed. It is surprising to see that within budget Nike offers very good quality running shoes with soft midsoles and durable outsoles.
The stack of comfortable React cushioning in the midsole is the Pegasus 38’s main strength, with the foam providing a comfortable ride that still has a bit of pop in it when you do want to up the pace.What’s more, considering that this is a budget model, it’s great that they decided to make it more environmentally friendly. The shoe is really light on the foot and on the pocket which makes it perfect for those starting out their running journey. Since Nike discontinued the popular Pegasus Turbo line, there hasn’t been a true all-rounder in its range.
Throughout testing it performed well as a lightweight, cushioned, breathable running shoe which exceeded my expectations as a daily trainer. This did not influence the outcome of this review, written after running more than 50 miles in them. Alternatively, if you’re a neutral runner, looking to upgrade on your Downshifter 10 or older model, this shoe is an almost exact copy, with a few functional and aesthetic improvements I’m sure you’ll love.Especially as I often find with Nike’s the laces come up super short, and easily come undone on a run.
