This Nike Pegasus 42 review looks at one of the most recognizable daily trainers. It costs about $145 at full price and pairs ReactX foam with a full-length Air Zoom unit. Reviewers say it feels natural and versatile for everyday running, with a roomier upper than the Pegasus 41. It is heavy for its class and the foam is not a bouncy superfoam, so think steady daily miles and casual wear. Best for: runners who want one dependable daily shoe from a big brand.
Illustration drawn from the product’s specs — see the brand’s site for real photos and colors.
Nike Pegasus 42 Review (2026): Worth $145?
3.8/5
our rating
our rating
$145Full price on Nike’s site, checked Oct 7, 2026
Best for: Runners who want one dependable daily shoe from a big brand.
Skip it if: You want a bouncy supercritical foam or a light shoe.
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What we like
- Versatile daily trainer that feels natural at a moderate stack
- Roomier upper than the Pegasus 41
- Improved traction and durable outsole rubber
- Regular and Wide widths on Nike's page
- Nike's 60-day Wear Test return window
Watch out for
- Feels heavy for the category
- Lacks forefoot shock absorption per RunRepeat
- Foam is not a modern super-foam
On this page
Fit and sizing
RunRepeat's 110 owner votes call the Pegasus 42 true to size. Nike's page lists Regular and Wide, and the upper has a wider toe box than the Pegasus 41. For help choosing between brands, see our running shoe finder.
Cushioning and ride
Nike lists a 37 mm heel and 27 mm forefoot stack with a 10 mm drop. Independent lab measurements put the drop higher at about 14 mm. The midsole is ReactX foam with a curved, full-length Air Zoom unit. RunRepeat's verdict is that the ride is moderate and natural, but it lacks forefoot shock absorption and needs a supercritical foam.
How it performs for daily miles and everyday use
Reviewers commonly call it ideal for heel strikers and good for easy and daily running, with improved traction and strong outsole durability. Nike positions it as a responsive daily trainer, but it is heavier than rivals like the Saucony Ride 19. Many people also wear it for walking and errands.
Price and value
At about $145 at full price, it is mid-priced, but Pegasus models are frequently discounted. Nike offers a 60-day Wear Test return window.
Alternatives
The Nike Vomero 18 is the plusher step up. The Brooks Ghost 18 is the classic rival. The Saucony Ride 19 is lighter. More on the Nike brand page.
Who should skip it
Skip the Pegasus 42 if you want a light, bouncy ride, or if you need maximum cushion for long runs.
Specs
| For | Men & women |
|---|---|
| Sizes | Men's and women's US sizes (full range not captured) |
| Extended fits | Wide widths |
| Weight | 297 g (10.5 oz) |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 10 mm |
| Heel stack | 37 mm |
| Forefoot stack | 27 mm |
| Cushioning | Balanced |
| Support | Neutral |
| Widths | Regular, Wide |
| Plate | None |
| Midsole foam | ReactX with Air Zoom unit |
| Surface | Road |
| Best use | Daily |
| Colors | 20 at time of checking |
| Good for | Running, Walking, Everyday wear |
The verdict
A balanced, durable, familiar daily trainer. It is not exciting, but it is a safe pick at about $145 and often cheaper on sale. Skip it if you want a bouncy supercritical foam or a light shoe. Ratings here are editorial estimates, not our own testing.
Alternatives to consider
Frequently asked questions
Is the Pegasus 42 good for beginners?
Reviewers commonly say yes. The moderate stack, durability and wider upper suit new runners. Specs here come from the brand and independent testers, since we have not tested it ourselves. Check the brand page or a retailer for the latest colors, sizes and price before you order.
Does the Pegasus 42 come in wide?
Yes. Nike's page lists Regular and Wide. Availability can differ by colorway, store and country, so check the width selector before you order and keep the return window in mind. Specs here come from the brand and independent testers, since we have not tested it ourselves.
Pegasus 41 or 42?
The 42 has a roomier upper and better traction per RunRepeat. The 41 is often discounted. Specs here come from the brand and independent testers, since we have not tested it ourselves. Check the brand page or a retailer for the latest colors, sizes and price before you order.
How much does the Pegasus 42 weigh?
Nike lists 10.5 oz (297 g) for men's and 8.6 oz (243 g) for women's. Weights are the brand's stated figures for a men's size unless noted, and independent lab weights can differ slightly, so treat them as a guide. Prices move often with sales and new colorways, so treat the list price as a starting point and compare retailers before you buy.
Sources and last checked · Oct 7, 2026
Notes: Price $145 men's and women's per Nike's product pages (other colorways showed reduced prices around $124.97-$131.97 against a $155 list; the page we read showed $145 with no sale). Weight 10.5 oz / 297 g men's, 8.6 oz / 243 g women's, drop 10 mm, stack 37/27 mm are Nike figures as quoted by RunRepeat (lab: 286 g, 14 mm drop, 36/22 mm). Widths: Regular and Wide per Nike page. 20 men's colorways. Nike Wear Test: 60 days per scope.md. Ratings estimated; we have not tested this shoe.
- nike.com/t/pegasus-42-mens-road-running-shoes-S1bYkOza/IB1873-402
- nike.com/t/pegasus-42-womens-road-running-shoes-VCB6baKU/IB1881-601
- runrepeat.com/nike-pegasus-42
Specs and prices come from the sources above and change often; ratings are our editorial estimates, not lab tests. Spot something out of date? Tell us.