If you’re often training in wet conditions, you should consider investing in the right type of running shoe. So are Nike trainers waterproof? Read on.
Whether you run a few miles every other day or are an ultrarunner, it’s important to keep your feet as dry as possible when training or racing. If, like me, you’re a Nike fan, you may be wondering, “Are Nike trainers waterproof?” The answer is yes; Nike provides both water-repellent and waterproof trainers.
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Water-Resistant Vs. Waterproof Vs. Water-Repellent Trainers
If you’re an avid jogger, chances are that you will jog in the rain from time to time. While you don’t want to jog in a storm or when the temperature outside is freezing, running in the rain can be quite revitalizing. You might be interested in our Nike vs. Hoka guide.
Water-Resistant Shoes
Water-resistant shoes are made from material that resists water more effectively than ordinary shoe materials. While these shoes prevent water penetration, they do so only up to a certain level.
Waterproof Shoes
On the other hand, waterproof shoes are made from materials that repel water completely. These shoes may also feature a built-in liner that provides a waterproof barrier on the shoes’ uppers. Waterproof shoes will keep your feet warm, so they are perfect for when you’re running in wet and cold conditions.
If you’re a trail runner, a waterproof trainer will keep the mud and debris out of your shoes.
Water-Repellent Shoes
In addition, you can also opt for a third type of running shoe for wet conditions, namely water-repellent shoes. This category of shoe falls somewhere in between the previous two categories.
They have sealed seams that help keep water on the outer surface. In addition, they also feature a thin layer of water-repellent material to keep the water out.
What Type Of Shoe Should You Go For?
The type of shoe you should opt for depends on your training environment. While water-resistant running shoes do a good job of keeping water out, they’re not completely waterproof.
However, you may prefer water-resistant shoes if you live and train in an area that’s warm and you need shoes for jogging in light rain. Water-resistant shoes are more breathable and cooler, so they are more suitable for warmer conditions.
Since water-repellent shoes are more effective at repelling water and keeping your feet dry, you should opt for these shoes if you tend to train in wet conditions often. These trainers are typically also “weatherized,” which means they are geared for colder conditions.
Opt for waterproof trainers if there are heavy downpours in the area where you train. These trainers are also the best option if you train in snow since they will keep the moisture from passing through the uppers. Since waterproof trainers are the least breathable, they are also the warmest.
If you like Nike, you might be interested in our explainer on are Nike trainers vegan.
Some Nike Trainers To Look At
Nike Shield
Nike Shield shoes are made from water-repellent materials. They also feature a Storm-Tread outsole with multiple lugs and a water channel to provide you with a good grip in wet conditions.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 Shield
These shoes are described as “weatherized” by Nike, which means that they are rain-resistant. The upper is both breathable and water-repellent and features a PFC-free coating and a gusseted tongue, which prevents water from flowing into the shoe. Since the shoe comes with added insulation, it’s perfect for cold winters.
Nike React Miler 2 Shield
The Nike React Miler 2 Shield provides a smooth and cushioned run, along with a water-repellent upper, so it’s ideal for runners who often train in wet conditions. Like the Pegasus 38 Shield, the Nike React Miler 2 Shield is geared for colder weather conditions.
Gore-Tex Technology
If you’re looking for waterproof Nike shoes, look for shoes that feature Gore-Tex technology. This type of shoe will keep your feet the driest.
The Nike Pegasus Trail 3 Gore-Tex
Although the Pegasus Trail 3 Gore-Tex is marketed as a trail shoe, it does well on the road. The upper features a supple and comfortable Gore-Tex membrane and a rubber toe-bumper.
An additional gaiter at the collar also helps to keep debris and water from entering your shoe. The shoe also features a rubber outsole, which provides good traction.
You might also be interested in learning can you run in walking shoes.
