Today, we’re looking at the Nike Pegasus Trail 5 — the latest version of Nike’s popular road-to-trail hybrid that continues to blend plush comfort with everyday versatility.
We will explore the new features in the Trail 5 and discuss how it compares to the Trail 4.
Outsole: Built for Durability, Not for Technical Trails
The biggest update in the Pegasus Trail 5 is the new all-terrain rubber compound on the outsole. Nike’s using this material for the first time in this line, and it’s designed to increase the durability of the sole rather than focus on technical grip.
- 3.5mm diamond-shaped lugs are arranged in multiple directions for traction, but given their shallow depth, they’re better suited to light trails and dry conditions than mud or wet rock.
- If you’re tackling technical or slippery terrain, you might want to check out a more aggressive option like the Hoka Speedgoat 6 or Inov-8 Trailfly.
Midsole: Soft, Cushioned, and Highly Comfortable
Nike’s ReactX foam in the midsole is a big win for comfort. This is one of the plushest midsoles in the trail running category, ideal for runners who want that cushioned feel underfoot.
- Stack Height: 37mm rearfoot | 27.5mm forefoot
- Drop: 9.5mm
- Best For: Heel strikers who value plush comfort over ground feel.
ReactX delivers a smooth ride, and with the addition of a rocker bottom, you’ll feel a more efficient heel-to-toe transition — especially helpful on longer runs or mixed terrain.
If you’re looking for something firmer or more responsive, check out our review of the Salomon Genesis.
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Upper: Durable and Supportive
Nike continues its reputation for high-quality uppers with the engineered mesh on the Trail 5.
- It’s breathable, durable, and reinforced in high-abrasion areas.
- A rubber toe bumper offers minor protection from rocks and roots.
- Nike Flywire technology helps lock down the midfoot, supported by a gusseted, padded tongue and reinforced heel counter.
Putting the shoe on is easy thanks to the back pull tab with an integrated D-ring, a small touch that improves usability.
What’s New vs. Previous Versions?
Two key changes stand out from the previous model:
- Increased Heel Bevel: Improves landing mechanics for rearfoot strikers.
- New Rocker Geometry: Makes transitions through the gait cycle smoother and more efficient.
These changes, while subtle, bring the Pegasus Trail 5 closer to the feel of a dedicated road shoe — making it one of the best options for road-to-trail runners.
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When to Use the Nike Pegasus Trail 5
Based on our testing, the Pegasus Trail 5 is ideal for:
- Road-to-trail running
- Dry, light to moderate trail conditions
- Runners seeking cushioning over responsiveness
- Long runs on gravel paths or compact dirt tracks
It’s not recommended for:
- Wet or technical trails
- Very uneven terrain where deeper lugs or better grip are needed
For those situations, the Brooks Cascadia 18 might be a better fit.
Final Thoughts
The Nike Pegasus Trail 5 stays true to the line’s core strengths: comfort, durability, and road-to-trail versatility. While it’s not built for technical terrain, it shines on gravel paths, fire roads, and hybrid surfaces. The updates to the outsole and rocker geometry are small but effective refinements that keep this shoe relevant for runners who want soft cushioning and long-distance comfort.
