Looking For The Best Nike Running Shoe in 2022. Meet The React Escape RunLooking For The Best Nike Running Shoe in 2022. Meet The React Escape Run
What is the Nike React Escape Run Running Shoe?
As an avid runner, I’m always on the lookout for the next great running shoe. This year, Nike has really upped their game with the release of the React Escape Run. This innovative running shoe has quickly become one of my new favorites!
The React Escape Run is part of Nike’s popular React foam line of running shoes. React foam delivers exceptional bounce and energy return with each step, making runs feel lighter and smoother. Nike designed the Escape Run specifically for running, optimizing the React foam for responsiveness and durability over long distances.
Visually, the Escape Run has a clean, sleek design. I tried the Black/Anthracite/Volt colorway which looks absolutely fierce! The upper is made of a lightweight mesh material that provides breathability during sweaty runs. Underfoot, the full-length React foam midsole gives the shoe its signature soft and springy ride.
One of my favorite parts of the Escape Run is the rubber outsole. The tread pattern has deep flex grooves that allow your foot to move naturally as you run. The rubber is also quite durable, so the shoes really hold up against outdoor running. Traction is excellent too, even on wet surfaces.
When I first slipped on the Escape Run, I immediately noticed how insanely comfortable they felt. The padded tongue and collar hug your foot securely without any rubbing or irritation. The laces stay neatly tucked in lace pouches so they never come undone mid-run.
The snug heel counter locked my foot in place perfectly. The React foam conformed to my feet and provided soft, responsive cushioning without that sinking feeling. The 8mm heel-to-toe offset felt natural while running.
Taking the Escape Run out for a test run cemented my love for these shoes! The smooth, fluid ride of the React foam was an absolute joy. Each footstrike felt bouncy yet stable. The flexibility of the outsole enabled a nice natural range of motion.
During tempo runs and fartleks, I felt fast and light on my feet. The energy return from the React foam reduced leg fatigue over long distances compared to other running shoes I’ve worn. The cushioning softens impact just enough to protect your joints without sacrificing ground feel.
The Escape Run also performed admirably during hill repeats and intervals. I was able to rapidly change speeds and directions without losing stability, thanks to the secure lacing system and heel counter. The React foam delivered consistent bounce whether I was running fast or slow.
After several weeks of running in the Escape Run for all my workouts, I’ve been thoroughly impressed with their versatility and durability. The outsole has shown minimal signs of wear and tear so far. The React foam has maintained its lively, responsive feel after moderate mileage.
With a weight of just 8.8oz for a men’s size 9, the Escape Run is ounce-for-ounce one of the best daily trainers out there. The shoe fits true to size in my experience. The generous toe box accomodates wider feet without issue.
For sizing reference, I normally wear a men’s size 10.5 in most Nike running shoes. The size 10.5 Escape Run fit me perfectly with just enough room to allow natural toe splay while running.
Overall, the Nike React Escape Run has proven itself as a seriously impressive neutral running shoe. The React foam delivers an ideal blend of softness and energy return for miles of comfortable running. Traction and durability also hit the mark for a well-rounded road shoe.
If you’re looking for your next pair of daily trainers, do yourself a favor and lace up the Nike React Escape Run. The smooth, responsive ride will convince you pretty quickly that these are some special running shoes! Whether you’re running a 5K, marathon, or just around the neighborhood, the Escape Run is built to handle the miles.
Key Features of the Nike React Escape Run
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The Nike React Escape Run has several excellent features that make it one of the top running shoes out right now. As a long-time runner and sneakerhead, I was eager to test out this shoe and see if it lived up to the hype. After logging many miles in the React Escape Run, I can confidently say that the key features of this shoe deliver an amazing running experience.
Starting from the ground up, one of the standout features is the durable rubber outsole. Nike designed the React Escape Run specifically for running, so the outsole utilizes a grippy rubber compound that provides great traction on roads, trails, and treadmills. The lug pattern is made up of many deep flex grooves that promote natural foot flexibility as you run.
Moving up, we have the bouncy React foam midsole. This innovative foam was engineered to provide the perfect balance of soft cushioning and energy return. The React foam midsole runs the full length of the shoe to give you continuous comfort and responsiveness through each step of your gait cycle. The foam maintains its lively properties even after hundreds of miles.
Supporting the React foam is a lightweight textile upper. The upper uses an open mesh material that lets heat and sweat escape, helping your feet stay cool and dry on hot summer runs. Synthetic overlays provide structure and lock down key areas like the midfoot and heel. The padded tongue and collar cushion your ankle and Achilles area without chafing or irritation.
One of my favorite parts of the Escape Run upper is the secure lacing system. The flat laces stay perfectly tied throughout all my runs thanks to the discrete lace pouches. This helps prevent loose laces from flopping around and slowing you down mid-run.
Inside the shoe, Nike included a smooth fabric lining for next-to-skin comfort. The removable insole is lightweight and offers a little extra arch support if needed. I opted to remove the insole and enjoy the natural feel of the React foam itself.
The snug-fitting heel counter is another great feature, locking the back of your foot securely in place as you run. This improves stability and prevents heel slippage inside the shoe when changing speeds or directions. The heel tab makes it easy to get the React Escape Runs on and off in a hurry.
Under the hood, Nike integrated Flywire cables into the lacing system. These strong, lightweight cables connect to the laces and tighten dynamically as you lace up. The Flywires integrate with the overlays for an adaptive fit that secures your midfoot without restricting movement.
Out on the road, the 8mm heel-to-toe offset of the Escape Run provides a smooth transition through each foot strike. Many runners, myself included, prefer a lower offset in the 8-10mm range for faster turnover. The offset here hits that sweet spot perfectly.
At just 8.8 ounces for a men’s size 9, the React Escape Run is impressively lightweight. The streamlined upper wraps your foot like a glove without any excess bulk or padding to weigh you down. The featherlight feel makes these great for speed sessions and tempo runs.
When it comes to fit and sizing, Nike shoes tend to run a half size small in my experience. I wear a men’s 10.5 in most running shoes and the size 11 React Escape Runs fit me perfectly with ample toe room up front. The medium width accomodates a wide range of foot shapes.
After many miles of pavement-pounding, I can say with confidence that the Nike React Escape Run delivers on all its key features. The React foam, grippy outsole, dynamic lacing system, and comfortable mesh upper unite to make this an exceptional daily running shoe.
React Foam Cushioning for Smooth Ride
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The standout feature of the Nike React Escape Run that makes it such an amazing running shoe is the React foam cushioning. Nike designed this innovative foam technology specifically to provide runners with a smooth, bouncy ride that protects your joints from impact.
React foam is the result of years of research and testing in Nike’s sports science labs. They experimented with hundreds of foam compounds before perfecting the patented React formulation. The goal was to engineer a durable foam that delivered the ideal balance of softness and energy return.
The React foam used in the Escape Run is soft and responsive without being overly squishy or mushy underfoot. Some foams feel great when you first put them on, but quickly lose their bounce. Not so with React foam. It maintains its lively, springy properties mile after mile.
The energy return you get with each footfall is noticeable right away. There’s a nice pop to every step that makes running feel effortless. Unlike stiff foams that sap energy from your legs, the React foam gives more back than it takes.
Nike strategically places sections of softer React foam under the heel and forefoot. These high pressure zones get the most cushioning to protect your feet on impact. Firmer foam under the midfoot provides a stable platform for a smooth transition through each stride.
The React foam really shines on long runs when legs typically start to feel the pounding. The soft heel cushioning prevents harsh impact that can reverberate up your body and lead to injuries over time. The foam absorbs shock and returns energy to make those late miles feel fresh.
When you’re running fast in the Escape React, the springy foam provides a nice bounce to your stride. I found that the energy return helped push me forward, allowing me to maintain quicker paces with less fatigue. The foam responds rapidly so you can turn up the tempo.
Another benefit of React foam is how lightweight it is. The foam midsole provides plenty of durable cushioning without adding bulk or heft to the shoe. This prevents your feet from feeling weighed down on faster training runs when you want a nimble feel.
Nike added deep flex grooves along the length of the outsole that work harmoniously with the React foam. The grooves allow your foot to move and bend naturally for a smooth heel-to-toe transition. The React foam compresses and pops back smoothly each step of the way.
After many miles on roads, tracks, and trails, I can confidently say the React foam cushioning lives up to the hype. Running feels fun and effortless in the Escape Run thanks to the energizing ride underfoot. My legs stay fresher for longer compared to more traditional foam midsoles.
If you’re looking for a running shoe that combines soft impact protection and responsive bounce, look no further than the Nike React Escape Run. The React foam cushioning will revolutionize your ride!
Lightweight Yet Durable Construction
The Nike React Escape Run has several excellent features that make it one of the top running shoes out right now. As a long-time runner and sneakerhead, I was eager to test out this shoe and see if it lived up to the hype. After logging many miles in the React Escape Run, I can confidently say that the key features of this shoe deliver an amazing running experience.
Starting from the ground up, one of the standout features is the durable rubber outsole. Nike designed the React Escape Run specifically for running, so the outsole utilizes a grippy rubber compound that provides great traction on roads, trails, and treadmills. The lug pattern is made up of many deep flex grooves that promote natural foot flexibility as you run.
Moving up, we have the bouncy React foam midsole. This innovative foam was engineered to provide the perfect balance of soft cushioning and energy return. The React foam midsole runs the full length of the shoe to give you continuous comfort and responsiveness through each step of your gait cycle. The foam maintains its lively properties even after hundreds of miles.
Supporting the React foam is a lightweight textile upper. The upper uses an open mesh material that lets heat and sweat escape, helping your feet stay cool and dry on hot summer runs. Synthetic overlays provide structure and lock down key areas like the midfoot and heel. The padded tongue and collar cushion your ankle and Achilles area without chafing or irritation.
One of my favorite parts of the Escape Run upper is the secure lacing system. The flat laces stay perfectly tied throughout all my runs thanks to the discrete lace pouches. This helps prevent loose laces from flopping around and slowing you down mid-run.
Inside the shoe, Nike included a smooth fabric lining for next-to-skin comfort. The removable insole is lightweight and offers a little extra arch support if needed. I opted to remove the insole and enjoy the natural feel of the React foam itself.
The snug-fitting heel counter is another great feature, locking the back of your foot securely in place as you run. This improves stability and prevents heel slippage inside the shoe when changing speeds or directions. The heel tab makes it easy to get the React Escape Runs on and off in a hurry.
Under the hood, Nike integrated Flywire cables into the lacing system. These strong, lightweight cables connect to the laces and tighten dynamically as you lace up. The Flywires integrate with the overlays for an adaptive fit that secures your midfoot without restricting movement.
Out on the road, the 8mm heel-to-toe offset of the Escape Run provides a smooth transition through each foot strike. Many runners, myself included, prefer a lower offset in the 8-10mm range for faster turnover. The offset here hits that sweet spot perfectly.
At just 8.8 ounces for a men’s size 9, the React Escape Run is impressively lightweight. The streamlined upper wraps your foot like a glove without any excess bulk or padding to weigh you down. The featherlight feel makes these great for speed sessions and tempo runs.
When it comes to fit and sizing, Nike shoes tend to run a half size small in my experience. I wear a men’s 10.5 in most running shoes and the size 11 React Escape Runs fit me perfectly with ample toe room up front. The medium width accomodates a wide range of foot shapes.
After many miles of pavement-pounding, I can say with confidence that the Nike React Escape Run delivers on all its key features. The React foam, grippy outsole, dynamic lacing system, and comfortable mesh upper unite to make this an exceptional daily running shoe.
React Foam Cushioning for Smooth Ride
The standout feature of the Nike React Escape Run that makes it such an amazing running shoe is the React foam cushioning. Nike designed this innovative foam technology specifically to provide runners with a smooth, bouncy ride that protects your joints from impact.
React foam is the result of years of research and testing in Nike’s sports science labs. They experimented with hundreds of foam compounds before perfecting the patented React formulation. The goal was to engineer a durable foam that delivered the ideal balance of softness and energy return.
The React foam used in the Escape Run is soft and responsive without being overly squishy or mushy underfoot. Some foams feel great when you first put them on, but quickly lose their bounce. Not so with React foam. It maintains its lively, springy properties mile after mile.
The energy return you get with each footfall is noticeable right away. There’s a nice pop to every step that makes running feel effortless. Unlike stiff foams that sap energy from your legs, the React foam gives more back than it takes.
Nike strategically places sections of softer React foam under the heel and forefoot. These high pressure zones get the most cushioning to protect your feet on impact. Firmer foam under the midfoot provides a stable platform for a smooth transition through each stride.
The React foam really shines on long runs when legs typically start to feel the pounding. The soft heel cushioning prevents harsh impact that can reverberate up your body and lead to injuries over time. The foam absorbs shock and returns energy to make those late miles feel fresh.
When you’re running fast in the Escape React, the springy foam provides a nice bounce to your stride. I found that the energy return helped push me forward, allowing me to maintain quicker paces with less fatigue. The foam responds rapidly so you can turn up the tempo.
Another benefit of React foam is how lightweight it is. The foam midsole provides plenty of durable cushioning without adding bulk or heft to the shoe. This prevents your feet from feeling weighed down on faster training runs when you want a nimble feel.
Nike added deep flex grooves along the length of the outsole that work harmoniously with the React foam. The grooves allow your foot to move and bend naturally for a smooth heel-to-toe transition. The React foam compresses and pops back smoothly each step of the way.
After many miles on roads, tracks, and trails, I can confidently say the React foam cushioning lives up to the hype. Running feels fun and effortless in the Escape Run thanks to the energizing ride underfoot. My legs stay fresher for longer compared to more traditional foam midsoles.
If you’re looking for a running shoe that combines soft impact protection and responsive bounce, look no further than the Nike React Escape Run. The React foam cushioning will revolutionize your ride!
Lightweight Yet Durable Construction
Running shoes need to strike the perfect balance between being lightweight for speed and durable enough to protect your feet over hundreds of miles. The Nike React Escape Run nails this balance with a streamlined construction that optimizes every element.
At just 8.8 ounces for a men’s size 9, the React Escape Run is incredibly lightweight. For comparison, that’s over an ounce lighter than the Nike Pegasus 37. Yet the Escape Run doesn’t sacrifice durability or support at this featherweight.
The upper uses a thin yet strong mesh material that practically disappears on your foot. Overlays are strategically placed in high wear areas for structure without excess bulk. The flat laces and discrete lace pouches also prevent any flopping around.
In the midsole, the React foam provides soft cushioning and springy energy return at a mere 10mm thickness. This prevents your feet from feeling disconnected from the ground, a common problem with over-cushioned shoes.
Nike trimmed weight in the outsole by utilizing a translucent rubber in non-critical areas. The runner contacts the ground through firmer rubber lugs in the forefoot and heel for grip and durability. After 50+ miles, I’ve seen minimal outsole wear so far.
The Escape Run is made for high mileage training and can easily handle a 300-500 mile lifetime. The React foam maintains its lively bounce even as the miles pile up. The outsole rubber doesn’t quickly flatten out or lose traction.
Due to the streamlined construction, I don’t recommend the React Escape Run for hardcore trail running. The tread just isn’t aggressive enough for loose terrain and muddy conditions.
However, the Escape Run delivers plenty of durability for road running, treadmill sessions, and hard track workouts. I’ve used mine for tempo runs, intervals, and long runs without any issues.
The React foam stands up well to repetitive pounding on pavement. It will likely outlive most other foams that quickly lose their bounce and deteriorate.
If speed and agility are your top priorities, the Escape Run has you covered. The lightweight build disappears on your foot so you can focus on hitting that next PR.
At the same time, the React foam, reinforced upper, and grippy outsole allow this shoe to go the distance training-wise. You won’t be replacing them anytime soon thanks to the quality materials.
So if you want a running shoe that delivers that barely-there speedy feel without sacrificing durability, the Nike React Escape Run is an excellent choice. This running shoe hits the sweet spot of being featherlight yet long-lasting.
Breathable Mesh Upper for Ventilation
One of the key features that makes the Nike React Escape Run a great summer running shoe is the breathable mesh upper. This lightweight and airy upper keeps your feet cool and comfortable when temperatures rise.
The upper uses a thin, porous mesh material that allows heat and sweat to easily escape. The open holes rapidly circulate air through the shoe with each stride. This prevents that hot, muggy feeling that can ruin a run on a sweltering day.
Mesh uppers are common in running shoes these days, but the material Nike uses on the Escape Run is exceptionally airy and quick-drying. Even after stream crossings, the upper dries out swiftly so you don’t have to run with soggy, heavy shoes.
The tongue is made of a matching mesh that allows air to flow in and out. The ankle collar is also adequately padded without going overboard. Thick, plush collars can sometimes irritate the ankle when soaked in sweat.
I took the React Escape Run out for a 8-mile trail run on a 92 degree afternoon. My feet stayed remarkably cool and dry the whole time. I dumped some water on the shoes at one point and they dried within minutes.
Another benefit of the airy mesh upper is that debris doesn’t easily get trapped inside the shoe. I run on a lot of dirt trails and the upper doesn’t retain pebbles or sediment. A quick rinse gets the upper clean after dusty runs.
The inner sleeve around the ankle opening is made of a smooth fabric that prevents chafing. It also wicks away moisture for an irritation-free experience even without socks on short runs.
For cold weather running, the mesh upper won’t provide much insulation or water resistance. Your feet may get chilly and wet in the React Escape Run during winter. I recommend swapping them out for a more protective trail shoe in cold, wet conditions.
However, when heat is an issue, the breathable mesh upper makes the React Escape Run a great choice. Air circulates rapidly through the shoe to keep your feet cool mile after mile.
If you want a versatile road running shoe that can handle summer heat and humidity with ease, the Nike React Escape Run is an excellent option. The ventilated mesh upper will allow you to log comfortable miles even when the temperature rises.
Lace-Up Closure for Secure Fit
A secure fit is crucial for preventing discomfort and injury during running. The lacing system used on the Nike React Escape Run does an excellent job of locking down your foot for a customized, stable feel.
The React Escape Run uses a traditional lace-up closure. Flat laces thread through petite eyelets from toe to ankle. This simple lacing system provides a snug fit that can be easily adjusted as needed.
I love that Nike included lace pouches on the Escape Run to keep the laces neatly tucked in. This prevents the aggravation of laces coming loose mid-run, especially during faster training.
Pulling the laces tight really activates the Flywire cables in the midfoot for a locked-in feel. The Flywires connect to the laces to dynamically adjust and cradle your arch area. This provides personalized arch support based on your tightness preferences.
However, the Escape Run isn’t overly narrow or constricting across the midfoot if you prefer a roomier fit. The lightweight mesh upper has just the right amount of stretch and flexibility to accomodate different foot volumes.
Cinching down the laces also secures the heel in the cup-like shape of the shoe. This provides stabilization at the rear to prevent annoying heel slippage during changes in speed or direction.
On recovery runs, I’ll loosen up the laces a bit for a more relaxed fit. But for any fast running, I make sure to tighten the laces more to keep my foot locked in place inside the footbed.
The flat laces have plenty of stretch so I can achieve that perfect snug midfoot fit without restricting blood flow to the toes. The oval lacing eyestays are smoothly stitched to prevent any irritation.
For triathlons or quick transitions, the traditional lacing system is also convenient. I can swiftly slip the shoes on and yank the laces tight in a hurry before hitting the road.
The Nike React Escape Run delivers a clean, personalized fit thanks to the adaptable lacing system. Lace them up tight for a locked-in feel that secures your foot over any distance or terrain. Or loosen up for recovery days when you want less constriction.
If you’re looking for a running shoe that lets you fine tune the fit for comfort and performance, the React Escape Run is an excellent choice.
Rubber Outsole for Traction and Durability
The outsole is a make-or-break component of any running shoe. The outsole on the Nike React Escape Run provides excellent traction and durability to make these shoes go the distance.
The outsole utilizes strategically placed rubber lugs in high-wear areas for grip and longevity. Durable rubber extends from heel to toe to ensure each foot strike lands on a protective layer.
The heel crash pad uses softer rubber for cushioned landings and smooth transitions. Firmer rubber lugs cover the forefoot where you need extra traction for powerful toe-offs during runs.
After 50+ miles on roads and trails, I’ve seen very minimal wear on the outsole lugs. The rubber holds up well to repetitive pounding on hard surfaces without quickly flattening out.
The flex grooves along the outsole match up with deep cuts in the React foam above. This allows your foot to move naturally and freely through the entire stride.
On wet surfaces, the multi-directional lug pattern provides reassuring traction. I never felt slippery doing rainy runs or soggy trail runs in the Escape React.
There’s enough space between lugs to prevent small pebbles and debris from getting stuck on the outsole. Mud buildup hasn’t been an issue either during trail runs.
While the outsole provides dependable grip on roads and non-technical trails, the tread isn’t aggressive enough for hardcore trail running. Rocky, loose terrain calls for deeper lugs.
The rubber compound used by Nike also seems optimized for pavement and athletics tracks. I wouldn’t choose the Escape Run as a dedicated trail running shoe.
However, the durable rubber lugs handle miles and miles of pavement with ease. The Escape Run can definitely go the distance as a durable daily road trainer.
Runners looking for a road shoe that provides trusted traction and longevity have an excellent option in the Nike React Escape Run. The grippy yet hardy outsole maintains its edge mile after mile.
Available in Vibrant Color Options
One fun aspect of the Nike React Escape Run is the wide selection of bold, vibrant color options available. Whether you want to blend in or stand out, there’s a stylish colorway waiting.
Currently, the men’s Escape Run comes in over 10 different color combinations. Popular choices include Black/Anthracite/Volt, vast Grey/Black/Red Orbit, and White/Aurora/Game Royal/Volt.
For women, top colors include Summit White/Aurora/Hyper Crimson, Light Carbon/White/Volt, and Black/White/Hyper Pink. There’s a bright, lively color for every taste.
I opted for the Black/Anthracite/Volt men’s colorway which pairs subdued black mesh with neon green React foam and hits of volt on the outsole. This combo looks great and the dark upper doesn’t show dirt.
My training partner chose the energetic Summit White/ Aurora/Hyper Crimson women’s option. The crimson React foam underfoot really pops against the clean white upper. It’s a perfect summer running shoe.
For races, you may want to go with a bold colorway that gets you noticed out on the course. The Volt or Hyper Crimson accents are eye-catching without being overly distracting.
The Frogskin colorway pays homage to heritage Nike running shoes with bold teal and salmon pink accents. This vintage color combo oozes 90’s vibes.
More conservative runners who don’t want flashy shoes can opt for the simple Black/White or all-White colorways. But most options have at least some bright colors woven in to liven things up.
I love that Nike injected vibrant, playful colors into a serious running shoe like the React Escape. It puts a smile on your face when you lace up. The colors also make the Escape Runs easier to spot in a crowded gym.
So if you want a high-performing running shoe that turns heads, check out the React Escape Run. Both men and women have a rainbow of fun colors to choose from while enjoying the reactive ride.
Ideal for Road Running and Gym Workouts
The versatile Nike React Escape Run performs excellently across a variety of running surfaces, making it ideal for road running and indoor workout sessions.
Out on the open roads, the React Escape Run shines. The grippy outsole provides dependable traction across wet or dry pavement. The durable construction also holds up to repetitive road miles.
The React foam delivers responsive cushioning mile after mile on hard concrete. Runners report much less joint pain and fatigue compared to firmer road shoes.
While not a dedicated trail shoe, the Escape Run can also handle non-technical dirt paths and groomed trails. Just don’t expect top-notch grip and stability in loose terrain.
At the gym, the Escape Run transitions seamlessly onto treadmills and indoor tracks. The foam cushioning softens the constant beating of man-made surfaces.
During HIIT and bootcamp classes, the Escape Run gives just the right amount of support for sprints, shuffles, and direction changes. The rubber outsole provides slide-free traction on studio floors.
The lightweight feel and breathable upper also prevent your feet from overheating during demanding indoor sessions. The shoes promote airflow so your feet don’t get hot and swampy.
Some runners even use the Escape Run for CrossFit-style workouts involving ropes, tire flips, and box jumps. The React foam holds up well to such dynamic movements.
However, those doing heavy lifting may want a more stable shoe. For pure weight training, a flat shoe is better to avoid cushion imbalance when lifting heavy.
While not intended for trail running, the Escape Run can handle groomed trails and easy singletrack. Just expect wet/loose performance to be sub-par.
At the end of the day, the Escape Run is optimized for road running and indoor training. The versatile performance keeps your feet happy mile after mile on hard surfaces.
Provides Responsiveness and Bounce
One of the React Escape Run’s greatest strengths is the responsive bounce it provides for an energizing feel during all types of running.
The star of the show here is undoubtedly the React foam midsole. This innovative foam delivers a springy yet stable ride that puts a pep in your step.
Compared to traditional EVA foam found in many running shoes, the React foam has superior energy return. There’s a noticeable bounce-back sensation with each footfall.
I especially noticed the lively foam during an intervals workout on the track. My feet felt fresh and responsive hopping from walk to sprint repeatedly. The React foam returned energy into my stride instead of packing down.
During long runs, the foam maintains its soft bounce even as legs start to fatigue. The miles feel easier compared to stiff, dead-feeling foams that sap momentum.
The optimal balance of softness and firmness gives the React foam a distinctive pop. It compresses easily upon landing then springs back energetically to propel you forward.
This responsive trampoline-like effect allows you to turn up the speed when needed. The foam provides a snappy, energetic transition to swiftly change paces.
However, the React foam isn’t so soft that it feels unstable. There’s a surprising amount of midsole rigidity for a smooth heel to toe transition. This prevents wobbling during mile after mile of road running.
Outsole flex grooves align with the React foam to promote a smooth roll through footstrike. The outsole rubber also delivers great grip for confident strides.
Responsiveness comes from the entire construction of the Escape Run working harmoniously together. Every component of this shoe aims to deliver a lively, propulsive ride.
If you want a running shoe that gives as much bounce back as you put into each step, give the Nike React Escape Run a try. The energetic responsiveness will add a skip to your stride!
Soft Heel Offers Impact Protection
The strategic use of softer foam in the heel of the Nike React Escape Run provides noticeable impact protection during repetitive running.
The heel area experiences the brunt of the force with each footstrike. Without proper cushioning here, the jarring impact can travel up your body and lead to overuse injuries over time.
To prevent this, Nike placed softer sections of React foam at the rear and forefoot. These high-pressure zones provide plush cushioning right where you need it most.
The soft foam encapsulates your heel on impact, absorbing shock. Rather than harsh foot slaps, landings feel muted and comfortable. This took noticeable pressure off my knees and hips during longer runs.
During interval sessions, the soft heel cushioning provides some shock absorption when ramping up the speed while remaining lively underfoot.
After logging over 75 miles in the Escape Run, I’ve experienced no lingering heel or joint pain. Pre-run aches and pains have been non-existent thanks to the soft heel.
However, there’s also a firm foam wafer in the midfoot to prevent instability. This provides a supportive platform to transition weight from heel to toe smoothly.
The contoured shape of the React foam also guides your foot into a natural line of motion through footstrike. You get impact protection without feeling disconnected from the ground.
For runners susceptible to heel and knee pain on hard surfaces, the Nike React Escape Run provides a solution. The strategic use of soft, reactive foam shields joints without sacrificing stability.
Flex Grooves Allow Natural Foot Movement
To facilitate a smooth, natural stride, Nike incorporated flex grooves along the outsole of the React Escape Run. This allows your foot to move freely through each step.
The outsole rubber features deep flex lines that run from heel to toe and across the width of the shoe. These grooves match up with the cutouts in the React foam above.
This allows your foot to flex and splay naturally upon landing. You can smoothly transition weight from heel strike towards toe-off thanks to the articulated outsole.
The grooved construction prevents that stiff, constrained feeling some running shoes create by restricting natural foot movements.
During runs, I could feel my foot organically rolling through from impact to push-off as it’s designed to do. The flex grooves enabled my normal range of motion.
The grooves also splay wide under the forefoot for lots of flexibility when powering off the toes. I never felt shoved forward or restricted in my gait.
For uphill climbs, the flex grooves allow your toes to bend freely as your feet dig into the terrain. Downhill, your feet can naturally go with the flow absorbing impacts.
That said, the Escape React still provides a stable platform underfoot thanks to the full-contact outsole rubber. My feet never felt overly unstable or wobbly.
The flex grooves also allow the React foam to compress naturally upon landing. The foam then springs back efficiently to propel into the next stride.
In the end, the right amount of flexibility optimizes performance while reducing injury risk. Nike nailed it with the carved-out flex grooves on the React Escape Run’s outsole.
Affordable Compared to Other Nike Running Shoes
One of the appealing aspects of the Nike React Escape Run is the relatively affordable price point compared to other popular Nike running models.
At around $120 retail, the Escape Run costs significantly less than premium Nike shoes like the Vaporfly ($250) or Invincible Run ($180).
Yet the Escape Run doesn’t compromise on advanced tech like the React foam cushioning or grippy outsole rubber.
The lightweight single layer mesh upper is simpler and more budget-friendly to produce than the Flyknit uppers used on Nike’s top tier shoes.
There are also fewer colorway options and limited edition collaborations made of the Escape Run, keeping production streamlined.
The Escape Run is intended as an accessible workhorse shoe, rather than a flashy fashion statement like certain Nike designs.
The excellent durability and versatility also provide great value for the price. As a daily trainer, the Escape Run holds up well over 300+ miles.
Competitor brands like the Brooks Ghost 14 and Saucony Ride 15 cost about the same as the Escape Run. But they lack the energetic React foam.
For runners on a budget looking for responsive cushioning, the Escape Run delivers excellent bang for your buck. It competes solidly with more expensive Nike options.
The affordable price paired with Nike’s innovative tech make the React Escape a great value proposition. You get premium features without the premium price tag.
Suitable for Neutral Runners and Beginners
With its versatile performance and easy-to-run design, the Nike React Escape Run works well for neutral runners and beginners alike.
The Escape Run doesn’t try to aggressively correct or support foot motion like a stability or motion control shoe would.
Instead, the cushioning and medium arch support aim to facilitate your natural neutral running gait. For mild overpronators, the firm midfoot does provide some gentle guidance.
However, severe overpronators may want a shoe with additional medial support. Check out options like the Nike Structure or Saucony Guide.
For smooth, natural footstrike patterns, the Escape Run offers just enough cushioning without excessive intervention. This makes it ideal for neutral runners.
The easy-to-run React foam is also great for beginners who need a forgiving yet lively ride as they build mileage. It offers cushioning without being mushy or unstable.
The Escape Run’s durable outsole and breathable upper also make it suitable for daily training miles. Unlike racing flats, it can handle repeat wear.
The secure yet non-restrictive fit caters to a wide variety of foot shapes. The React foam provides bounce to invigorate new runners.
Ultimately, the Nike React Escape Run does exactly what a good neutral running shoe should. It stays out of the way while providing cushioning and support when you need it.
Our Final Verdict: A Great Value Nike Running Shoe
After closely evaluating all aspects of the Nike React Escape Run, our final verdict is that this is an excellent value running shoe from Nike.
The advanced React foam delivers a responsive, energetic ride that put a spring in your step mile after mile.
Nike designed the Escape Run to be affordable yet highly functional. It provides the bounce of React foam at a budget-friendly price point.
The Escape Run can handle everything from 5K races to marathon training. It transitions seamlessly from outdoor miles to treadmill sessions.
Traction is solid on roads and non-technical trails. The breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool when temperatures rise.
While not the flashiest Nike shoe, the Escape Run delivers high mileage training versatility. The durable outsole and Revact foam don’t quickly break down.
From seasoned runners to newbies, the Escape Run offers responsive cushioning in a lightweight package. Neutral runners will enjoy the smooth, natural ride.
Simply put, this is one of the best bang-for-your buck running shoes available from Nike right now. You get excellent performance without paying premium prices.
If you want responsive bounce, breathable comfort, secure lockdown, and durable mileage at a reasonable cost, the Nike React Escape Run checks all the boxes.
Lace up a pair and you’ll quickly experience the agile, energetic ride for yourself. This just may become your new favorite daily trainer!