Trail runners craving a reliable, cushy, and tough shoe for all kinds of terrain have something new to get excited about: the Nike Zegama 2. This follow-up to the original Zegama smooths out some of the quirks from the first version, zeroing in on what runners really wanted—grippier traction, a roomier toe box, and consistent performance that holds up mile after mile.
Cushioning that goes the distance
The first thing you’ll probably notice is how insanely comfortable these feel right out of the gate. The ZoomX foam brings a whole lot of plush underfoot, but never veers into that overly squishy, out-of-control zone. There’s a nice, rolling rhythm to the ride, partly thanks to a subtle rocker that helps you transition smoothly through each stride. On flat stretches and gentle inclines, you really feel that flow. It’s not quite as springy as Nike’s ZoomX road shoes, but there’s still enough pep to keep your legs from feeling wrecked deep into a long trail session.
This shoe leans into softness in the best way. Once you get past the short break-in period, it almost molds to your foot. Long, slow days and even ultra-distance runs start to feel a whole lot more doable. That early stiffness fades fast, and then it’s like the shoe just disappears, blending into your movement instead of working against it.
Traction you can trust
One of the biggest leaps forward here is the outsole. Nike finally brought in Vibram Megagrip, and the difference is night and day. Slippery rocks? Loose gravel? Muddy trails? The Zegama 2 clings like it means business. Compared to older Nike trail models, the improvement is massive—you finally feel like you can trust your footing, even bombing down sketchy descents or cutting sharp corners on unstable surfaces. It gives the shoe a level of reliability that’s essential when you’re out in unpredictable conditions.
Roomier fit and protective upper
Fit-wise, Nike clearly listened. The Zegama 2 opens up the toe box more than most of their trail shoes, which is a huge win for anyone tackling long miles. It gives your toes the freedom to move and swell naturally—something your future self will thank you for after hours on the trail. The upper checks all the right boxes too: breathable enough to let heat escape, but tough enough to fend off sticks, rocks, and grit. The built-in gaiters are a clever touch—they keep debris out without choking your ankles—and that padded tongue and heel collar? Just icing on the comfort cake. Lockdown is solid, though if you’ve got narrow feet, you might have to mess around with lacing or try a heel lock to avoid any heel slippage.
Stable ride with a bit of heft
Despite the chunky stack height, the Zegama 2 holds its own when it comes to stability—at least on moderate terrain. It’s not your best bet for ultra-technical or rock-strewn trails where ground feel is key, but for rolling hills, smooth forest paths, and packed singletrack, it handles beautifully. The ride feels secure, and that translates into less fatigue and more confidence over time.
Now, let’s talk weight. Tipping the scales at around 300 grams, this isn’t a featherweight option. But here’s the trade-off: all that weight goes into cushioning, support, and durability. If you’re after speed records, maybe look elsewhere. But if you’re building mileage and want a shoe that’ll back you up, those extra grams are totally worth it. This is a shoe made for training days, not podiums.
Protection and long-term durability
As for protection, the Zegama 2 holds up well across the board. The upper shrugs off scrapes and dings from trail debris, and the build feels solid enough to go the distance. The toe cap, though, is a bit underwhelming. If you’re someone who tends to kick rocks now and then, you might feel it more than you’d like. Still, the overall construction is reassuring. Between the rugged sole and reinforced upper, this shoe looks ready to stick around for the long haul.
Final thoughts
The Zegama 2 isn’t pretending to be the quickest or most nimble trail shoe out there—and honestly, that’s not the point. It’s built for runners who prioritize comfort, reliable grip, and consistency above everything else. With its luxurious cushioning, dramatically better traction, and more forgiving fit, this shoe helps take your mind off your feet so you can stay focused on the adventure ahead.
Whether you’re stringing together long back-to-backs, diving into mixed terrain, or grinding out ultra training, the Zegama 2 has your back. It brings the kind of support and confidence that makes those big miles feel just a little bit easier.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Plush ZoomX cushioning ideal for long distances | Slightly heavy (~300g), not suitable for speedwork |
| Vibram Megagrip outsole offers excellent traction | Toe cap protection could be more robust |
| Roomy toe box improves comfort on long runs | Takes time to break in |
| Breathable and durable upper with integrated gaiter | Lockdown may need adjustment for narrow feet |
| Stable ride on moderate terrain with smooth rocker motion | Not ideal for very technical descents |
New Balance 327
