Nike ACG Pegasus Trail

The Nike ACG Pegasus Trail is the latest addition to the Pegasus saga, designed for runners looking for a versatile shoe that moves easily between road and trail, and it does not stretch much further than that. Although this edition should be the sixth, the Nike marketing team has launched the "All Conditions Gear" (aka ACG) collection for its clothing, shoes and other gear made for less favourable outdoor weather, and it will probably be a success, because it is quite common to see people in kit fit for summiting Everest going for a walk in the hills on a sunny day. Like the Challenger 8 or the Cascadia 19, the ACG Pegasus Trail stands out for its "door-to-trail" versatility, although with a more urban focus than its rivals.

The mesh upper offers efficient breathability, with heat-sealed overlays in the midfoot that provide structure without adding weight. The padded tongue and ankle collar reduce pressure on the instep, while the internal heel counter ensures stable lockdown. Compared with earlier versions of the Pegasus Trail line, this iteration adds more room up front and a redesigned lug pattern that improves traction on descents, although it is nothing to write home about.

The ReactX midsole offers a balanced combination of cushioning and responsiveness for long runs without being excessive. The design that recalls the contour lines of maps is a nice touch, and the strap at the back is handy for carrying the shoes when they are covered in mud. The All Terrain Compound (ATC) rubber outsole with 3–4 mm lugs provides enough grip on hard-packed dirt, gravel and wet tarmac. In short, the ACG Pegasus Trail is a shoe for light trails and urban commuting, with the comfort typical of the Pegasus and the ability to handle non-technical trails, a solid option.