Nike Pegasus 42 Review

Are you ready to meet the coolest 42-year-old ever?

No, I am not talking about Vince, I am talking about the new Pegasus. 

The brand new Nike Pegasus 42 has landed in the shop, and it's not having a midlife crisis. The Pegasus 42 is still running the block with its old-school swagger just in a new and improved modern form. Every year, people say “this is the BEST Pegasus ever”... Only this year, it might be true.

I was given one of my first pairs of Pegasus at the young age of 12 by my dad. Okay, given may be the wrong word…Admittedly, I stole them out of his closet, but it was that early introduction to the Pegasus line that has kept me going back to this shoe year after year. We are a long way away from the Pegasus 26, and admittedly, there have been some models that have been hit or miss for me. Truthfully, I haven’t LOVED a pegasus since 30, 32, and 38. Lately, Nike has been pumping out some stuff that I truly do love, like the Vomero, Vomero Premium, Structure Plus, and essentially their entire trail line. That being said, when I saw the Pegasus 42 roll through the doors, I was pretty excited to see what this version was all about, and for the first time in a long time, I put on a Pegasus that I knew I would really enjoy.

From the first time I put this version of the Peg on, I knew it would be a much better version for me than Pegasus of the past. Nike seemingly has gone back to its heyday when it comes to their trainers, and they feel more substantial, like Nike shoes of the past. That is not to say it's clunky or overbuilt, but it feels like their trainers have turned a corner and are just solid. The Pegasus 42 feels more cushioned than last year's and has a good mix of cushion and pop. The full-length Zoom Air unit provides that pop, without being overly responsive, and the full ReactX midsole provides plenty of cushion without feeling too soft. This provides a smooth, controlled ride that feels very runnable, as well as comfortable.

The upper is also a huge improvement for me and my foot. Traditionally, I have found the Pegasus to be a little on the snug side when it comes to fit, but the 42 has an upper that provides plenty of space without being exceptionally roomy. When you combine the updated upper and midsole, Nike really has a winner with this year's version of the Pegasus.

So is this the “Best Pegasus ever?” To be honest, I don’t know. Is this the best Pegasus I have put on my feet in years?  Absolutely. It's for you to decide if you think it's the best one ever, but it is certainly a worthy contender.

If you are someone looking for a standard daily trainer and have enjoyed Pegasus of the past, or similar shoes like the New Balance 880, Saucony Ride, or Brooks Ghost, give the new Peg 42 a try. So that’s the gist. Next time you're in the shop give it a try, it may be your next trusty steed.