Nike Revolution 5 – Introduction

The Nike Revolution 5 is an entry-level, well priced running shoe, made with soft foam to ensure a comfortable run over short distances (i.e. 5-10km). The running shoe appears more premium and performs with more durability than similar shoes in this price range, e.g. Adidas Duramo 9 and Under Armour Micro G Pursuit.

Nike has done a complete overhaul of its Revolution 4, changing the whole running shoe. The Nike Revolution 5 offers the consumer some of the characteristics and style or its more expensive models, such and the look of the Epic React foam. It also competes well in comparison to challenger brands when it comes to feel and performance.

Nike Revolution 5 – First Impression

When unboxing the Nike Revolution 5, the shoe looks more expensive than its list price, with a look similar to the much more expensive Epic React range. The running shoe feels lightweight and flexible in the hand, and also on the foot.

When first trying on, the fit is true to size and comfortable. As the upper is so light and thin, there is plenty of room for the foot to move and no hard points or pinch points. As the sole stretches out further than the width of the foot, it feels stable, yet comfortable to move in.

The laces when fully laced up were quite short, but stayed put and provided no issues during running.

Overall the initial fit was comfortable and padded yet light.

Nike Revolution 5 – Sole Unit

The sole unit consists of foam and it presents a more modern look than models from other brands in the same price range (e.g. Saucony Cohesion 12 and Asics Gel Contend 5). This foam cushioning feels solid, consistent throughout the length of the foot, and responsive during a run. The foam feels like it will maintain its structure over time, and not flatten in areas of the foot where there is more pressure.

The spacing in the tread means the foot can flex naturally and comfortably, and provided no issues even from the first run when it came to the foot flexing.

The rubber outsole isn’t and thick or as deep as more traditional looking running shoes, meaning the shoe will be outperformed by these on more challenging terrains or over time. This thinner outsole will wear down faster than a thicker outsole on outdoor surfaces which is why I would recommend this running shoe more for indoor use.

Nike Revolution 5 – Upper

The upper consists of one layer of breathable mesh, keeping the foot cool on warmer days, but on a rainy run, the whole of my foot got very wet quickly, within 5 minutes of rain starting.

After a few wears, the heel counter has started to weaken and makes getting the shoe on a little more difficult, but once it is on is not an issue.

The fit is true to size, as I find with all Nike running shoes, and the soft upper means these would also be suitable for a narrow or wider foot.

The laces were on the short side but stayed put on the run. The tongue was well padded which meant a comfortable ride on the whole foot.

Nike Revolution 5 – Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re thinking of taking up outdoor running, I would recommend you start with a more traditionally designed running shoe, with a sole that will last for more miles, and an upper that will serve you better in all weather conditions.

If you’re looking for a low priced, good looking Nike shoe that performs across all areas of exercise, the Nike Revolution 5 would be a good starting point.

We purchased a pair of Nike Revolution 5 at retail with our own money. This did not influence the outcome of the review, written after running more than 50 miles in the shoes.