Nike Pegasus 41 Review (2024): Back to Basics?

Julien Guyod

Published on 03/28/2025

Is there a more iconic series than the Pegasus? It is certainly the oldest and certainly one of the best-selling. What runner hasn’t already had a pair on their feet?

The first of the name came out in 1983, the year I was born. Suffice to say that I haven’t been able to run in all of them, but I have tested!

The latest versions have not been unanimously acclaimed. It’s true that Nike’s task is complex in order to satisfy so many different runners: the brand needs to match many specs, and any big shift is likely to create discontent among the Pegasus’s loyal base.

Does this latest iteration suit your profile and your objectives?

That’s what we’re going to see in this in-depth review.

Our Verdict

Cushioning

The famous React foam was getting on in years, so it has logically been replaced by the new ReactX foam, which is 13% more responsive according to the brand.

It’s also lighter, which allows for an increase in the dimensions of the shoe: they are now 37 mm heel stack height and 27 mm metatarsal.

The two Zoom Air units from previous versions are still there, one at the front and one at the back.

With an ultra-popular shoe that is one of the best-selling in the world, Nike has to perform a real balancing act to please everyone. The cushioning is particularly sensitive as tastes differ so much between runners.

Some testers found the feel a little firm. I have the advantage of being able to run in a very large number of shoes and can easily judge on this point.

I don’t really like too firm cushioning, so you can trust me when I tell you that the underfoot feel of this Pegasus 41 is perfectly balanced, neither too firm nor too soft.

It’s a real achievement and I think it will suit many runners with a very pleasant underfoot feel upon impact.

The shock absorption is very good and will allow everyone to run long distances, except possibly for runners over 90 kg/198 lbs.

Finally, the heel-to-toe drop of 10 mm is classic and does not require any particular adaptation.

Energy return

The weight is the same as the previous version (270 g/9.5 oz in size EU42/US9), despite the larger dimensions. With more bounce, the Nike Pegasus 41 is more responsive and therefore more versatile.

Despite the fairly classic rocker, heel-to-toe transitions are very fluid and fast. The shoe can be used for a wide range of paces.

Support and stability

The shoe is neutral and does not have any technology to stabilize the stride.

However, the outsole ensures secure contact with the ground and the fit prevents any slipping in the shoe.

In addition, the platform has been widened, so stability is good with this model.

Foot Lockdown

Following the same logic as cushioning and in view of all the different types of feet that exist, there’s not much room for error with the upper. But here again, it’s clear that the brand’s engineers and designers have done a good job.

Whether wide or thin feet, most testers found the fit optimal — the shoe fits true to size and regularly.

The Dynamic Fit system, which reduces the space between the foot and the shoe, is no stranger to this. It gives the mesh a stretchy side that adapts very well to the foot. There’s also a Wide version for really wide feet.

The internal cage at the midfoot contributes to a good lockdown. The heel counter is well designed and provides good support for the Achilles tendon. The numerous padding features, particularly on the collar and tongue, contribute to the very good comfort and good foot lockdown.

The woven mesh ensures very good breathability, and the ventilation points are effective and allow for good ventilation. In addition, the lightweight lining provides sufficient protection in cold weather.

Traction

The brand’s famous waffle-patterned rubber is on the outer sole. The result is quite similar: good traction thanks to almost complete coverage.

In addition, the numerous grooves ensure very good flexibility.

On the other hand, some testers noted a poorer grip on wet surfaces. As it has been raining less recently, I have not been able to judge this. The shoe did not do too badly in my classic test: pouring water on asphalt to check the grip.

As a good daily trainer, the Nike Pegasus 41 can accompany you on various terrains, as long as they are not technical.

Use

The latest versions have not always been unanimously acclaimed. Expectations are high. When people buy a Pegasus, from beginners to expert runners, they want to be able to do everything with them. The whole point of the series is to offer a shoe that is complete and even suitable for everyday wear.

This Pegasus 41 goes back to basics and has what it takes. The modifications made to improve it make it extremely versatile; you can pretty much do anything in these shoes, they adapt to any pace.

They’re perfect for a recovery jog, but they’re also great for tempo runs. In training, its very good shock absorption means it can handle any distance.

Of course, there are more high-performance shoes for going fast or more cushioning for even more comfort. But the Pegasus 41 is very complete and will satisfy most requirements.

Quality and Durability

Durability is fairly standard, with no early wear to be expected for the upper or outsole. The Nike Pegasus therefore once again offers very good value for money.

Note the Move To Zero initiative, Nike’s approach to achieving zero emissions. For example, the shoe is made of at least 75% recycled materials and the ReactX foam reduces the carbon footprint of the midsole by at least 43% compared to React foam.

The Nike Pegasus 41 are not vegan.

Conclusion

The Nike Pegasus 41 has the legendary versatility of the series. The design is very successful because it should suit a very wide variety of runners, both in terms of the ride and the fit.

Of course, there are more high-performance or cushioned models, but the shoe is a very good daily trainer and the ideal pair for those who want a unique model.

Facts

Technical Specs

Cushioning

Technologies

Use