Nike Pegasus Plus 2: Lightweight Speed Without the Plate
The Nike Pegasus Plus 2 is built for runners who want to pick up the pace without stepping into a carbon-plated racing shoe.
Nike pairs ultralight ZoomX foam with an exposed, curved Air Zoom unit in the forefoot to create a smooth, energetic and propulsive ride. The result is a lightweight tempo trainer designed to bring race-inspired responsiveness into everyday training.
At Tortoise & Hare Sports, we'd put the Pegasus Plus 2 between a traditional daily trainer and a dedicated racing shoe. It's for the days when you're ready to move.
What Is the Nike Pegasus Plus 2 Best For?
- Tempo runs
- Progression runs
- Faster daily miles
- Long runs with pace changes
- Speed-focused training
- Runners who want ZoomX without a carbon plate
- Runners building a training shoe rotation
Does the Nike Pegasus Plus 2 Have a Carbon Plate?
No. The Pegasus Plus 2 does not rely on a carbon plate for propulsion. Instead, Nike combines lightweight ZoomX foam with an exposed, curved forefoot Air Zoom unit to create its responsive, energized ride.
That makes it an interesting option for runners who want a fast-feeling training shoe without the stiffness or specialized feel associated with some plated shoes.
ZoomX + Exposed Air Zoom
Lightweight ZoomX foam provides responsive cushioning, while the curved Air Zoom unit in the forefoot adds a more propulsive sensation as you transition toward toe-off.
Nike says the Pegasus Plus 2 delivers at least 18% more energy return than the original Pegasus Plus.
Updated Fit for the Pegasus Plus 2
Nike modified the forefoot shape to create a more accommodating fit around the toes. A streamlined, breathable mesh upper exposes the midfoot containment band, helping create a secure feel when the pace picks up.
More Toe Spring
An updated silhouette increases the curve at the toe box for greater toe spring, helping the Pegasus Plus 2 move smoothly through each stride.
Updated Waffle Outsole
The outsole features an updated Waffle pattern with diagonal geometry, sharp edges and flex grooves designed to improve zonal traction, flexibility and ground feel.
Nike Pegasus Plus 2 Specs
-
Category: Responsive road running / tempo training shoe
-
Midsole: ZoomX foam
-
Cushioning Technology: Exposed curved forefoot Air Zoom unit
-
Carbon Plate: No
-
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10mm
-
Men's Weight: Approx. 9.3 oz / 265g (Men's US 10)
-
Women's Weight: Approx. 7.5 oz / 215g (Women's US 8)
-
Upper: Lightweight breathable mesh with midfoot containment band
-
Outsole: Updated Waffle outsole with flex grooves
-
Surface: Road
Who Should Buy the Nike Pegasus Plus 2?
Choose the Pegasus Plus 2 if your daily trainer feels a little too relaxed when it's time for tempo work or faster miles, but you don't necessarily want to train in a carbon-plated shoe.
It's especially well suited to runners building a shoe rotation who want a lighter, more responsive option for faster training days.
Pegasus Plus 2 vs. Pegasus 42: What's the Difference?
Choose the Pegasus 42 for versatile everyday training and general mileage. Choose the Pegasus Plus 2 when you want a lighter, faster-feeling trainer powered by ZoomX foam and a forefoot Air Zoom unit.
Pegasus Plus 2 vs. Zoom Fly 6: Which Is Better for Speed Work?
Both can handle faster training, but they approach speed differently. The Pegasus Plus 2 is non-plated and uses ZoomX with forefoot Air Zoom. The Zoom Fly 6 uses a full-length carbon fiber Flyplate. Runners wanting responsive speed without a plate should look closely at the Pegasus Plus 2.
THS Fit Tip: Faster doesn't mean tighter. Your performance shoes should still give your toes room to move while keeping your midfoot secure as the pace increases.
Embrace Your Pace.
