Are Nike Air Force 1 Good For Running in?

The Nike Air Force 1 sits firmly in the Nike Hall of Fame as one of the most popular sneakers of all time. This article looks at whether or not the Air Force 1 is good for running or not and what specifically makes a good Nike running shoe.

The Nike Air Force 1 is without a doubt, one of the brand’s most successful shoe lines, with thousands of enthusiastic wearers across the globe. A timeless classic that has been a mainstay in the sneaker world for decades. Whatever age bracket you fall into, there’s a Nike Air force 1 colourway for you, whether you intend to use them as ar running shoe or not. A well rounded rotation is not complete without a fresh pair of AF1’s in the shoe rack.

The Nike Air Force 1 was released as a basketball shoe in 1982, designed by sneaker legend, Bruce Kilgore and championed by Basketball legend Rasheed Wallace. Arriving before Air Jordans, The Air Force 1 featured a unique design, with a full-length air bubble in the heel, and a translucent outsole. Years before Air Max, the AF1 was the original shoe to feature Nike’s Air technology, making this trainer comfier, lighter and more cushioned underfoot than predecessors such as the Nike Blazer.

Are Nike Air Force 1s Good For Running ?

Air Force 1‘s are a constant feature on shelves and feet alike. As a sports brand, Nike has a variety of silhouettes tailored for different activities such as skateboarding, basketball, tennis, or running. It’s worth noting that their footwear is suited for many different sports. However, if you want to know if the Nike Air Force 1 can cope with being used for other purposes than everyday wear, we consider the suitability of Nike Air Force 1 sneakers for running and walking.

Air force 1s have a sturdy build that bears your weight well and gives excellent balance on slippery surfaces. The Air Force One gets its name from the American Presidential plane was first released in 1982 and has received very few modifications from the original design (see also ‘How To Lace Air Force 1‘).

What makes the Air force 1 so popular is definitely the classic look and durability of the shoe. The soles feature non-marked rubber which makes them waterproof and resistant to weather elements. The silhouette also comes fully equipped with an air unit as well as detailed cuts to make them comfortable and roomy around your feet. Although the earlier versions of Air force 1 sneaker were worn on the court, today these creps are more suited to casual wear. Nowadays you’re more likely to spot Air force 1‘s on a sneakerhead walking down, rather than on the basketball court.

What Nike Sneakers are Specifically Designed for Running?

Generally, the Nike Air Force 1 is not good for running. Nike sneakers built specifcially for running and exercise activities include the Nike Joyride, Nike React, and the Pegasus Running Trainer. You can find a detailed guide below:

Nike Joyride

Nike Joyride sneakers were launched in 2019 offering improved cushioning and style to Nike’s exercise-loving customers. Fitted with Flyknit technology, they weigh next to nothing and check seamlessly around your feet. Joyrides also come with a soft cushioning system that absorbs shock and gives you a bouncy feel. According to many happy customers, the Joyride gives amazing impact protection and makes running easy for anyone. You’ll be pleased to hear that they provide an increase of 14% when it comes to impact protection, compared to other running shoes. Take a quick look through the pros and cons below.

PROS 

• The joyride sneakers feature Nike’s Flyknit material, which makes them light on your feet.
• An increased impact absorption and the cushioning system give off a bouncy feel and reduce the likelihood of running injuries and ankle sprains.
• The joyride sneakers make running easy and comfortable, blending runner support and comfort with style
• They are pretty adaptable and suitable for several occasions. 

CONS

• While they offer excellent impact protection, the Nike joyride sneakers remain susceptible to more challenging hard surfaces.
• The shoes are pretty pricey, particularly if you’re a new runner.
• There are concerns about ankle stability, given the feather-like weight of the shoes.

Where to buy: SHOP HERE

Nike React

Nike React Running Shoes are also Flyknit tech-equipped sneakers. From their appearance, you can instantly tell they are long-distance running shoes. The sneakers feature a foamy tread sole and are notable for an absence of rubber in the build-up. This feature gives runners more traction in wet conditions and slippery surfaces. The foamy soles also have high impact protection and shock absorption technology, offering a bouncy feel somewhat similar to the Nike Joyrides. Durability is the Nike React running shoe mantra as they can rack up plenty of mileage.

PROS

• Reliable in wet conditions and durable on slick surfaces.
• The Nike React is capable of doing numbers with its innovative and durable soft landing tech.
• Highly suited to everyday runs.
• The React foam gives a bouncy and comfy feel, reducing the impact of running on hard surfaces.

CONS

• The Nike React weighs more than other running shoes and may not be ideal for long or fast runs.
• The heel collar is a bit loose, which may cause some discomfort.

Where to buy: SHOP HERE

Pegasus Running Trainer

Whether or not you’ve seen Hercules, you’re likely to be familiar with the word Pegasus. Named after the Greek mythological flying horse, the Nike Pegasus running trainer is specifically made for fast runs. Built for rst very long runs. The shoes feature waterproof protection and traction support, making them suitable for trails and outdoor running. Also fitted with Nike React Foam, you can expect a soft and lightweight running enclosure for your feet. Built for intensive everyday workouts, they come designed with quick-dry materials and waterproof features.

PROS

• The GORE-TEX invisible tech ensures waterproof protection and quicker drying periods.
• The pegasus sneakers are flexible and adaptable for everyday runs.
• Combined rubber and react foam soles make them suitable for several running tracks.
• Increased traction and superb shock absorption.

CONS

• The outset sole features rubber which makes the shoe feel heavy on long runs.
• Not well suited to rocky or mountainous areas.
• The sneakers are more suited to trails than road runs.

Where to buy: SHOP HERE

Air Zoom Pegasus

As mentioned earlier the Pegasus brand is Nike’s most durable running shoe, much more suited to running than lifestyle trainers like the Air Force 1. Due to its popularity and durability there are over 37 re-imagined versions of this shoe. The Pegasus running trainer lives up to its name by combining Nike’s Air Zoom and React Foam features. This feature gives the sneakers a roomy feel and soft landing with each stride. The react foam allows runners to go longer miles with soft cushion and impact protection. Named after the mythical flying horse, the Pegasus brand is Nike’s longest-running sneaker of this kind. The new Pegasus Trainer also features a springy React foam that adds a soft bounce to your runs.

PROS

• Improved air unit, which makes runs more comfortable and less weary on your feet.
• The Pegasus Trainer comes with a foamy sole for softer cushioning and reduced impact on hard surfaces.
• Designed for everyday running.
• Adaptable to diverse running intensity and conditions.

CONS

• The Pegasus trainers are close-fitting, which may be a problem for runners with wide feet.
• The Pegasus sneakers feature reduced ankle support when compared to other running shoes on the market.

Where to buy: SHOP HERE

While all of these shoes are suitable, and many deemed ideal for most of your walking and running needs. You might want to consider getting some Nike ACG pieces when it comes to walking gear, which comes crafted with environmentally friendly materials that increase comfort and reliability. The sleek ACG sneakers on offer are also suitable for cold weather conditions runs, keeping you warm and dry simultaneously. You can check out some of the available ACG gear here.

Conclusion

Let’s be honest, our feet deserve comfort and reliability. Whilst the Nike Air Force One may not be the ideal shoe for running, we’ve put together a list of nice shoes that are better suited to your running needs. We’ve also included the pros and cons of each pair and where you can pick them up. The thickness of the Air Force 1 sole can make them feel uncomfortable for strenuous activities like running and jogging. However, they are well suited to walking. Your footwear is just as crucial as the zeal and determination required to hit your goals. It is essential for you to have the right running gear. In addition to those mentioned above, some other quality running shoes on the market include the Reebok Floatride, Skechers GoRun, and the Adidas vitality.

Choosing the perfect running shoe requires some detailed research. Here, we look at some of the questions that runners should ask while shopping for new sneakers.

Frequently Asked Questions