Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 Review Analysis (2022)

Last update: August 2022

The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 is the go-to daily training running shoe. Affordable, accessible, and comfortable, it’s a reference that keeps hitting the spot.

The Consensus

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 Complete Review Analysis

Introduction

Every year, many Pegasus fans worldwide eagerly await the release of their favorite shoe. And here it is for 2022: the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39!

Not that they are the latest shoes with exceptional powers. Here, no carbon plate or “supercritical” foam. We are dealing with a simple and effective shoe that does exactly what we ask: be comfortable and last a long time.

There’s probably some nostalgia in the yearly success of Nike’s best-selling Pegasus: it’s the first shoe for many runners. And because it works so well, they continue to buy it every year out of habit, even if it’s not necessarily their primary shoe.

So the big question is: what is this new model worth, and can it convince people who have never worn a Pegasus? In this analysis, we’ll answer it together to help you determine if this 2022 edition is a good choice for you.

Cushioning

The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 keeps an intermediate configuration in terms of stack height. It resists the sirens of maximal cushioning to which more and more brands succumb (like Adidas with its Adizero Boston).

With a 28 mm stack height in the heel and 18 mm in the front (10 mm drop), the Nike Pegasus 39 offers a comfortable platform that absorbs shocks while leaving a little ground feel.

In terms of technology, Nike’s React foam offers comfortable but unabashed cushioning. Testers note that the foam is even spongier to the touch, but underfoot, it retains a moderately firm feel.

This structure gives good stability to the shoe.

These new Nike Pegasus 39 do not have one but two Zoom Air units: one under the front of the shoe and another under the heel. If the one under the heel is discreet, runners note that the forefoot Zoom Air unit is rather noticeable. At slow speeds, this may not be comfortable for everyone. Fortunately, it fades as you pick up the pace.

All in all, we stay on a similar cushioning experience to the previous version. What about the ride of the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39? Is the shoe responsive underfoot? This is what we will see further down.

Foot lockdown (upper)

If there’s an important point on which the Nike Pegasus has never (or almost) disappointed, it’s the foot lockdown. The Peg 39 is no exception to the rule, and its engineered mesh upper allows a perfect locking of the foot in the shoe.

The internal heel counter keeps the heel secure without chafing while the tongue (linked to the laces to prevent slipping) locks in the foot comfortably.

Surprisingly, the Flywire technology (system of cables) makes a comeback in the midfoot on the Nike Pegasus 39. It had disappeared from the two previous versions in favor of straps, but this 2022 update brings it back.

We can assume that this is to lighten the shoe (this configuration is more discreet): with 255 g/9 oz for men and 233 g/8.2 oz for women, it is the lightest Pegasus so far. It aligns with similar shoes like its great rival, the Saucony Ride 15, and its 250 g/8.8 oz.

This running shoe fits true to size with a standard volume, that is, neither ample nor restrictive, especially at the toe box. If you have narrow feet, it will be perfect. For wide feet, we recommend you try them on.

Finally, the upper is relatively thick, which gives average breathability. This configuration is ideal for winter but can be restrictive when it’s hot in summer.

Grip and durability

The outsole of the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 is a combination of carbon rubber under the heel and blown rubber under the forefoot.

There’s a generous amount of both materials to protect the Nike Pegasus 39 and pile on the miles without fear of rapid wear.

The outsole features a new design with two flex grooves along the entire length of the sole. This change should provide more flexibility while running.

Finally, we note that the sole of this Nike running shoe displays small nibs, almost similar to lugs, to improve grip. However, testers report that despite their presence, the hard rubber does not always grip so well on wet concrete.

Still, the shoe can be comfortable on dirt roads and other non-technical light trails.

The Ride

As we mentioned in the introduction, the Nike Pegasus has never impressed with its responsiveness. At the same time, this is not its role in the Nike Running collection. The slogan of Nike for its Pegasus 39? “Your workhorse with wings.”

The Nike Pegasus 39 is here to run comfortably over long distances for daily training. It offers a smooth transition but without explosive energy return. You’ll have to turn to a Vaporfly (geared for racing performance) or an Invincible Run (much more fun but less stable).

Maybe the 40 will change the game, but, for now, we remain on a classic configuration that remains a star for everyday running.

Conclusion

The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 remains similar to previous versions with some significant changes: a lighter weight (20 g/0.7 oz less) and a slightly more flexible sole.

The star shoe of Nike remains a safe choice for beginners looking for an efficient and comfortable shoe to accompany them safely in their first run. It’s also a good pick for experienced runners looking for a good comfortable and durable cruiser for high-mileage training.

Facts

Technical Specs

Cushioning

Use

Reference: Nike

Comparisons – Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 vs.:

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38

The Nike Pegasus 39 is lighter than the Peg 38 (20 g/0.7 oz less). This is possible thanks to a better arrangement of elements and new production techniques.

For the rest, the comfort, foot lockdown, and ride feel remain very similar.

The rubber-rich outsole is a bit more flexible with its added flex grooves.

Honestly, if you find the P38 during promotion periods, treat yourself! You won’t miss much.

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