Nike’s collection of running and casual shoes may appear endless due to the variety of options available, but comparing two different models may help to limit your search.
So, in today’s article, we have decided to analyze Nike Pegasus 36 and 38, two of the most renowned models famous for their quality construction and level of comfort.
Let’s find out in what aspects both of these models are comparable or if one has better qualities than the other.
Similarities and Differences between Nike Pegasus 36 And 38:
| Features | Nike Pegasus 36 | Nike Pegasus 38 |
|---|---|---|
| Launched in | 2019 | 2021 |
| Stability | More stable | Stable |
| Flexibility | Rigid | More Flexible |
| Sizing | 6-15 for Men5-12 for Women | 6-15 for Men 5-12 for Women |
| Weight | 10.3 oz. (M)8.2 oz. (W) | 9.7 oz. (M)8.3 oz. (W) |
| Cushion | Medium Cushioning | Thick Cushioning |
| Outsole | Rubber Pentagon-shaped lugs | Rubber Waffle shaped lugs and recycled materials |
| Insole | Fabric | Fabric |
| Upper | Fly mesh, Flywire | Engineered Mesh,Straps |
| Midsole | Cushlon Foam, Zoom Air | React Foam |
| Retail Price | $120 | $110-$120 |
Nike Pegasus 36 VS 38: Good, Bad, and the Worst:
Continue reading to get a detailed evaluation of the differences and similarities between the Nike Pegasus 36 and 38.
1) Comfort:
One feature that makes the Nike Pegasus 36 and 38 stand out is how comfortable they are.
Nike Pegasus 36 is one of only a few Nike running shoes that still have its older “Premium Cushlon foam” which is superior to EVA foam because it has rubber compounds that make it more lightweight.
The Pegasus 38, on the other hand, features Nike’s up-to-date “React foam”, and the company describes it as the “most complete” foam, which provides exceptional comfort.
Moreover, in the Nike Pegasus 38, the forefoot Zoom Air unit is 10mm thick whereas, the whole Air unit in Pegasus 36 is only 4mm thick. So, due to Pegasus 38’s somewhat denser construction, it gives a delightful feeling of springy rebound and a more responsive ride than Pegasus 36.
Furthermore, for the women’s version of Pegasus 38, the designers reduced the air unit pressure to 15 PSI (from 20 PSI in the men’s model) for a softer feel and increased the size of the forefoot unit for a more rapid toe-off.
The brand claims that the different airbag densities are necessary because women prefer softer running shoes. Alternately, men’s and women’s Pegasus 36 models feature the same airbag densities.
So, in terms of comfort, we will give higher marks to the Nike Pegasus 38.
2) Popularity:
The Nike Pegasus 36 and 38 are popular among amateurs as well as professional runners who frequently engage in different activities.
However, the Pegasus 36 continues to be a favorite for a long time, but now a more modified the Nike Pegasus 38 with modern advancement ultimately became more famous.
3) Running:
The Pegasus 36 and 38 are great for everyday miles but shine for relaxing long weekend runs.
The Pegasus 36 has a full-length Zoom Air unit that disappeared underfoot, resulting in gentler transitions, so it is better suited for brief, tempo road runs due to its firmer construction.
Undoubtedly, the Nike Pegasus 38’s React foam and thick airbag are excellent at providing deep and softer cushioning that does not wear out and is better adapted for longer, slower running.
4) Walking:
The Pegasus 36 has a particularly stable sole because it is sturdy and sits low to the ground.
The under-arch support feels more pleasant while walking but isn’t much noticeable while running, so you can use this model for walking them around town for a longer duration.
Conversely, The Pegasus 38, has a lot of padding in the heel and feels bouncy once you get moving in it matches your footsteps. However, these shoes are designed for running, but they’re so well-balanced for being plush and responsive that you’ll feel like you’re walking on air.
5) Flat Feet:
People with flat feet will benefit greatly from the crash rails of Nike Pegasus 36 that run down the sides of these shoes, providing an easy heel-to-toe landing.
The 36 also includes flex grooves on the outsoles for extra grip that flat-footed people need and the foam used in the midsoles is suitable for different foot issues.
On the other hand, Nike Pegasus 38 also offers enough support for almost every foot type but the toe box of 38 was on the narrower side, so those with flat feet or anyone who likes a roomy toe area might feel irritated.
6) Design:
The Nike Pegasus 36 has no unnecessary details and offers a simple style that appeals to runners of all skill levels.
This shoe model intends to provide you with the tried-and-true technology that Nike has offered for many years, but no technically advanced features.
Moreover, its upper is made of a single piece of basic, almost seamless resilient mesh that wraps around the foot from front to back, with only a Nike logo placed on one side.
Also, the internal structure of the mesh is slightly denser in high-stress areas of the shoe, such as the toe edges and the tip of the lacing area to withstand wear and tear.
In addition, a thin wrap of reflective material goes around the back of the heel, which gives it the look of every day sneakers. All in all it’s a versatile shoe model that can be used for any activity, but it stands out as a short- to medium-distance running sneaker.
Alternatively, Nike made major modifications to the design of Pegasus 38 most noticeably its overall fit, which is superior for those who want a more robust sneaker and will appreciate the elevated and wider forefoot.
Moreover, the racing-inspired, thinner tongue that was first introduced on the Pegasus 36 has been replaced with an extensive, padded tongue that no longer feels out of place or inappropriate and resolves the two main issues.
Firstly, it does an excellent job of protecting the foot from the pressure of the laces, and as it is connected to an inner sleeve so there’s no tongue sliding at all. Also, its more padding helps to move the foot back toward the heel cup without any restriction so that the heel has enough support.
Furthermore, the Nike Pegasus has always been able to “lock down” the foot perfectly, and this 38th version is no exception. In a line, this model excels at slower, longer distances rather than faster, brief periods of activity or running.
What do customers think?
Many reviewers have praised the comfort and performance of wearing Pegasus 36 while running or walking, but some have said that newer models are superior.
In addition to its longevity, consumers value the stability and unique style that Pegasus 36 provides.
The Pegasus 36’s outsole stays consistent just like the rest of the line, which pleased fans who liked its previous iterations but didn’t impress newbies.
Though some reviewers have noted the shoes run small and are stiff, others found that it took about a week of running in them to break in completely which is almost similar with other Pegasus models.
Conversely, people believe that Pegasus 38’s responsiveness and wearability are two of the primary selling points for this model. Runners of different skill levels agreed that the Pegasus 38 is a pleasant companion on the road.
A reviewer claims to have primarily used the Nike Pegasus 38 to run on dry concrete, however, after some time, he tried this model running on wet and slightly rainy terrain and remarked that it performs best on dry pavement but can withstand light precipitation on the ground.
According to regular consumers, this model also retains a secure fit if the laces are tightened.
Some reporters, however, stated that this shoe model didn’t work well on uneven trails or when hiking, and a few have noticed some structural flaws on the bottom of these shoes after a few months of use.
Conclusion: What Do We Recommend?
The Nike Pegasus series continually evolves and expands to keep up with technology and stay fascinating.
However, if you’re a runner who prefers Nike’s old technology from the past decade-Zoom Air and Cushlon foam for daily training then the Pegasus 36 is your best bet. However, we will recommend trying the modern, innovative, and more dynamic Pegasus 38th version as it will provide a pleasant experience on lengthy road runs and heavy track miles.
Also, Forefoot strikers will find that the thick Zoom Air bag on the forefoot is highly beneficial than the thin full-length Air unit of the Pegasus 36.
Another factor that is worth mentioning is that the Nike Pegasus 36 is no longer available on the website. Whereas the Nike Pegasus 38 is widely accessible, so if you’re looking for a proficient walking and running shoe style, we highly suggest this one.