Testing the Nike Free Everyday+ 2 Shoes

Got a chance to take a short run with the Nike Free Everyday+ 2 running / training shoes we showcased yesterday during our unboxing.  The official color name is Black / Chilling Red-Anthracite-White (quite the mouthful I know).  Here are some of my thoughts on the shoe.

I’m not sure exactly how to classify these shoes since I feel like you could probably use them for both activities, both running and cross training.  I am a little biased since I’ve tested the Nike Free 5.0 v4 shoes, but the moment you put them on you can tell they are significantly less flexible than the 5.0 shoes.  This is not necessarily a bad thing, but it’s a pretty noticeable difference.  But once again everything is relative because compared to my Asics shoes these Everyday+ 2 shoes feel like a dream.  I can’t believe I’ve been running with those stiff Asics for so long.

The Nike Everyday+ 2 shoes seem to be made from the same material as the Nike Free 5.0 V4 shoes, namely that lightweight soft-to-the-touch foam materials.  The sole is the trademark Nike Free sole with the grooves cut into the bottom which allow the shoe to flex and give that “barefoot” flexing feeling.  Wearing them around you can tell it’s pretty breathable which is good for long sweaty feet inducing running sessions.

You’ll notice also that the heel is a little more padded than other Nike Free shoes.  The Everyday+ incorporates Nike’s Zoom heel cushion which is used for “ heel crash-pad protection.”  When running you do notice that the impact is more cushioned than other running shoes, but ideally we should all be running with a mid foot strike versus the traditional heel strike gait.

For people who have the Nike Plus (Nike +) running sensor you’ll be able to plug it into this shoe directly to start collecting data.  Which is a plus for those really looking to track their running sessions without having to wear additional gear (since it can be integrated in the shoe).  I tend to shy away from much technology on my runs so I wasn’t able to test what running with a sensor in the shoe felt like, but I imagine Nike did a good job making the sensor feel like it isn’t there.

Overall the Nike Free Everyday+ 2 shoes felt really comfortable and provided a good mix of cushioning and support and some flex in the foot.  Personally, however, I prefer the Nike Free 5.0 v4 shoe since it has more flexibility and overall seems lighter.  For people looking for a more barefoot running experience you might be somewhat disappointed since I don’t feel like the Everyday+ 2 shoes give it to you, but compared to traditional running shoes it is still better.  The extra cushioning is also better for higher impact sports or training where you may want the cushion.

If you were like me and you were confused by all this Nike Free terminology make sure to check out our post on Nike Free naming conventions to get that straightened out.  It’s like Nike’s marketing department had a free-for-all when it came to naming their shoes.

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