Nike Pegasus Plus Review: A Lightweight, Cushioned Daily Trainer with ZoomX
GEAR & SHOE REVIEWS
Nike calls the Pegasus Plus an “energized everyday ride,” and after logging miles in it—from easy runs to strides—I understand why. As someone who lives in Florida, hosts a weekly running podcast, and tests a wide range of shoes on my YouTube channel, I’m always curious when a new model promises both comfort and responsiveness. The Pegasus Plus delivers a bit of both, and in ways that set it apart from the traditional Pegasus line.
This is a daily trainer with a twist: lighter, bouncier, and more premium than the standard Peg. Here’s how it stacks up in design, performance, and value—plus how it compares directly to the Pegasus 41.
Design & Build: A Daily Trainer with Turbo DNA
Flyknit Upper
Nike uses a Flyknit upper here—one of my personal favorites because of how breathable and airy it is. It’s thin, light, and ideal for hot climates. I rarely run in socks, especially in Florida, and the Pegasus Plus felt soft enough to wear sockless without irritation. The suede-like thin tongue also adds to the comfort without unnecessary padding.
Structured Heel
The heel has noticeable padding—more than I usually prefer—but many runners will appreciate the secure feel. It locks the foot in place without slipping or rubbing.
ZoomX Midsole
This is the big story. Instead of React foam and air pockets like in the Pegasus 41, the Pegasus Plus uses full ZoomX, Nike’s lightest, bounciest, and most responsive foam. That’s a huge upgrade and the main reason this shoe feels so lightweight underfoot.
I’m always cautious with ZoomX durability, but Nike addressed that here with a high-abrasion rubber outsole. Most of the foam is protected, much more than in previous Nike models, which gives me more confidence in the shoe’s lifespan.
Weight & Stack
Women’s weight: 7.2 oz
Drop: 10 mm
This makes it one of the lightest daily trainers I own, noticeably lighter than the Pegasus 41.
Fit, Feel & First Impressions
When I slipped the Pegasus Plus on, I felt the difference immediately. The sizing felt more accurate than the Pegasus 41, with more room in the toebox and a more natural overall fit for my foot shape.
Walking around, the foam felt soft and pillowy—squishier than most daily trainers. Aesthetically, I loved the bold color wrap around the midsole. Nike also offers six women’s colors and seven men’s colors, ranging from clean neutrals to bright statements.
Pegasus Plus vs. Pegasus 41: Surprisingly Big Differences
Even though they share the Pegasus name, they feel like two completely different shoes.
Price
Pegasus Plus: $180
Pegasus 41: $140
A $40 difference, but the materials and performance justify it.
Foam
Pegasus Plus: Full ZoomX, no air pockets
Pegasus 41: React + Air Units
This alone dramatically changes the ride.
Weight
In my size:
Pegasus Plus: 7.2 oz
Pegasus 41: 8.8 oz
Upper
Pegasus Plus: Flyknit (breathable, soft, low padding)
Pegasus 41: Mesh (less breathable, padded tongue)
Lineage
Despite the name, the Pegasus Plus actually comes from the Pegasus Turbo lineage, which explains the ZoomX and lighter, quicker feel.
Performance on the Run
Easy Miles & Recovery Runs
This is where the Pegasus Plus shines for me. When I’m running tired—especially the day after a workout—the soft foam feels forgiving, like running on a cloud.
Long Runs
Surprisingly good. The cushioning stays consistent, and the light weight helps reduce fatigue on longer efforts.
Strides
The shoe is responsive enough for short bursts thanks to the ZoomX midsole.
Stability
There’s no plate, and the foam is soft, so runners who need medial support or extra stability may not love it. But with my neutral gait, I had no issues, even during longer sessions.
Pros
Very lightweight for a daily trainer
Plush, bouncy ZoomX cushioning
Breathable Flyknit upper
Works well in hot climates
Great for easy miles, recovery, long runs, and strides
More premium and responsive than the standard Pegasus
Cons
Higher price point than typical daily trainers
Soft foam + no plate = not ideal for stability-needs runners
Slightly more heel padding than I personally prefer
Who the Pegasus Plus Is For
The Nike Pegasus Plus is a great choice if you want a daily trainer that feels soft, cushy, and lightweight—especially for easy miles, recovery runs, or long runs on tired legs. It’s also ideal for runners in warm climates and those who prefer a breathable Flyknit upper.
If you need stability or want something firmer and more structured, the Pegasus 41 may be a better match.
But if you want something closer to the old Pegasus Turbo—lightweight, bouncy, and fun—the Pegasus Plus fits perfectly into that niche.