Comparison:
Nike Pegasus 40 vs Nike Pegasus 39
The Pegasus is Nike's classic mid-range, neutral daily trainer. Here we will be comparing version 39 to version 40.
Comparison:
The Pegasus is perhaps one of the best selling running shoe series of all time. It offers a comfortable, balanced ride for most runners from beginners to elites.
Version 39 was a big update but version 40 is just an upper change. Which of these Pegasus versions is right for you?
Similarity and differences: Air Zoom Pegasus 40 vs Air Zoom Pegasus 39
Expert score
7/10
7/10
Weight
9.4 oz
9.20 oz
Heel Drop
10 mm
10 mm
Verdict
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 40 is a daily trainer with a stable ride and durable build. It doesn't have a particularly fun or lively ride but it has a comfortable fit with no major weaknesses. It's best suited to short or middle-distance easy runs. Version 40 is only an upper update which makes the shoe more comfortable but heavier. It isn't a substantial update so it's not a major improvement over the Pegasus 39.
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 is a comfortable, mid-range daily trainer designed to be durable. It doesn’t have an exciting or lively ride but it’s great bang for your buck and very stable.
The 39th version has a new upper, midsole and outsole but the biggest upgrade is that it has lost an ounce of weight.
Recommended for
Daily training
Daily training
Cushioning type
Balanced
Balanced
Cushioning amount
Medium cushioning
Medium cushioning
Flexibility
flexible
flexible
Stability
very stable
very stable
Sizing
true to size
true to size
Retail price
US$130
US$130.00
Sole unit: Air Zoom Pegasus 40 vs Air Zoom Pegasus 39
The soles of these 2 versions are exactly the same so they have the same ride. Their midsoles are made of React foam which provides a firm but balanced ride.
There’s an airbag in the heel and one in the forefoot to add extra responsiveness. This makes a difference when you pick up the pace.
Ride transitions are not as smooth as in other trainers due to the feeling of the airbags in the midsole. You can feel the distinct lump under your forefoot.
The ride of both versions have a firmer ride compared to most daily trainers but there’s still enough cushioning to run a full marathon. Stability is good because the midsoles are not soft so there’s minimal lean bias.
The outsole consists of hard, thick rubber which lasts a very long time. You should be able to get high mileage out of both versions without any problems.
Upper unit: Air Zoom Pegasus 40 vs Air Zoom Pegasus 39
The 2 versions have different uppers with the Pegasus 40 being more accommodating and more comfortable than the Pegasus 39.
The mesh used in the upper of version 40 is softer and more stretchy than version 39 so the 39 feels more snug.
Both versions fit true to size but there are also narrow, wide and extra wide width options of both available.
Which one to buy: Air Zoom Pegasus 40 vs Air Zoom Pegasus 39
There are very few differences between the Pegasus 39 and the Pegasus 40. The Pegasus 40 is slightly more comfortable because it has a softer, more accommodating upper.
If you don’t mind getting the older version, you will save some money because the Pegasus 39 is now heavily discounted. They both have the same ride so you won’t be missing out much.
Only get the Pegasus 40 rather than the Pegasus 39 if you can only find the regular version in your region and you need the extra space in the upper.
Best price online: Air Zoom Pegasus 40 vs Air Zoom Pegasus 39
Air Zoom Pegasus 40
Air Zoom Pegasus 39
This expert review is written by
Brandon Law
Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
Brandon is a South African who lives and trains in Malaysia. He is a marathon runner who eats, sleeps and dreams running shoes. While most people wear shoes to run, he runs to wear shoes.
