Nike ACG Pegasus trail running shoes

Pegasus Trail shoes

Nike’s iconic 1983 Pegasus running shoe was first adapted for off-road use in 2003 as the sport of trail running became increasingly popular. Initially a one-off variation, it eventually inspired the Nike Pegasus Trail line following a modern revival of the brand’s trail collection.

The original Pegasus Trail features a rubber toe guard, sturdy heel, mesh upper and leather overlays. Its hefty sole incorporates full-length Phylon foam with Air cushioning for solid support, and its rugged outsole offers reliable grip. For its long-awaited successor, 2019’s Pegasus 36 Trail, Nike drastically reduced its weight through no-sew panels and perforated mesh. Snug, locked-in comfort comes via a gusseted tongue, generously padded collar, laminated eyelets and Flywire lacing, while the heel is protected by a rigid counter and dynamically scooped collar. EVA foam and dual Zoom Air provide springy responsiveness and shock-absorption alongside a comfort-focused 10mm drop, and Duralon combines with tough carbon rubber for durable traction.

Following the release of a waterproof Gore-Tex variant, Nike launched the Pegasus Trail 2 in 2020. Lightweight React foam makes it more propulsive, comfortable and shock-absorbing, while its robust, tyre-inspired outsole is grippy over steep, varied terrain. A durable ripstop-type material protects the heel and a rubber toe bumper reinforces the forefoot, with a broad pull loop on the heel and a debris-blocking ankle gaiter that combines with a sock-like neoprene inner and sturdy Flywire-free lacing to deliver excellent containment.

A new upper was introduced on the Pegasus Trail 3 in 2021, with a dynamic midfoot band, solid textile loops and rubberised eyelets giving greater lockdown alongside a traditional collar and upgraded heel pull. Flywire cables return on 2023’s Pegasus Trail 4, its restructured heel enhances containment and varied lugs on its flexible outsole improve traction while easing transitions. The Gore-Tex edition’s alternative outsole is grippier in wet weather, its extended midsole walls offer stability and its bold Swoosh outline, eye-catching Trail logo and inspirational text offer a striking look.

In 2025, Nike launched the Pegasus Trail 5, giving it a lightweight engineered mesh upper with breathable perforations and abrasion-resistant zones. More internal space joins practical additions like a pull loop and reflective heel tabs as the responsive ReactX midsole increases support and sustainability. A rockered geometry and bevelled heel encourage forward propulsion, while Nike’s durable All-Terrain Compound rubber outsole delivers outstanding traction.

Just one year later, as Nike reinvented its iconic ACG sub-label, the ACG Pegasus Trail was released. More versatile than ever, it features a hard-wearing All-Terrain Compound 2.0 outsole for better wet-weather traction alongside a roomier, trail-ready last that offers greater stability and comfort. The quick-draining upper enhances performance on water-logged trails, while the rubber toe wrap increases durability. Built using insights from Nike’s All Conditions Racing Department, it is favoured by athletes such as Lauren Gregory, who has praised its ability to deliver responsive support “in all conditions – from trails to gravel roads, pavement and a mix of all three”. 

With its cushy stack of responsive foam, hard-wearing outsole and durable yet stylish upper, the Nike Pegasus Trail is a highly versatile road-to-trail running shoe for the modern adventurer.