Nike Pegasus 37 VS 39: Which Is Better?

When it comes to running shoes, the Pegasus series by Nike has the most dependable options available.

The brand has a history of successfully updating this line, so runners always look forward to the new model each year.

Moreover, in recent times we have seen a lot of evolution in these sneakers in which Pegasus 37 and 39 are two of the highly regarded shoe styles.

In today’s showdown, I’m going to compare their features against each other to see which one is better. Without further delay, here’s our breakdown of Pegasus 37 vs 39.

Similarities and Differences between Nike Pegasus 37 And 39:

FeaturesNike Pegasus 37Nike Pegasus 39
Launched in2020April 2022
StabilityStableMore Stable
FlexibilityFlexibleMore Flexible
Sizing6-15 for Men 5-12 for Women5.5-14 for Men5-11.5 for Women
Weight10.05 oz. (M)8.28 oz. (W)9.2 oz. (M)7.9 oz. (W)
CushionConsistent CushioningAir Cushioning
OutsoleRubber with waffle patternCarbon Rubber
InsoleFabricTPU
UpperKnit MeshPerforated engineered mesh
MidsoleReact Foam,Air Zoom (forefoot only)Airbags, React foam (dual density). 
Retail Price$120$135

Nike Pegasus 37 VS 39: Good, Bad, and the Worst:

Now we will provide an in-depth review of the comfort, designs, the intended use of each model, and other factors that will help pick between Pegasus 37 and 39.

1) Comfort:

Nike excellently improved the Nike Pegasus 37’s cushioning system with a tall React midsole which gives it a higher profile and incorporates zoom air units in the forefoot only for responsiveness. 


In addition, its thick airbag performs exceptionally well to provide comfort that does not decrease by prolonged use

This model’s breathable upper also makes it a great choice for running on a road track in the warmer months as well.

Also, the back of the shoe has a raised collar with extra padding which helps keep your heel from moving around inside the shoes.

Alternatively, the Nike Pegasus 39 is lightweight despite its substantial cushioning and dual Zoom Air units, which provide a pleasant underfoot feel.  

The brand has also made welcome tweaks by including additional padding to the tongue and heel collar, which is especially appreciated on longer runs to avoid fatigue.

Also, the ideal length and width of the shoe will offer the utmost level of comfort for most people with different foot types. 

Lastly, the React foam utilized in the Nike Pegasus 37 and 39 is not particularly plush, so neither shoe model feels excessively soft when worn. Therefore, their somewhat firmer construction makes them more versatile, which is exactly what you want in everyday running footwear.

2) Popularity:

The Nike Pegasus 37 is a favorite among runners of all skill levels who are conscious about their best performance and is also well-liked due to its affordability.

Alternately, the stability and endurance of the latest Pegasus 39 model have been greatly improved over previous iterations, which adds to its demand. So, in addition to being admired by sneaker lovers, these shoes are well-liked by those suffering from foot issues.

3) Running:

Running puts a lot of stress on the body and the Pegasus 37 deal with this by featuring a thick, cushioned bottom for protection from the hard pavement, therefore is better suited for short-distance slow running, but not for intense activities.

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 Outsole
Pegasus 37 Outsole

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 outsole
Pegasus 39 Outsole

Conversely, the Nike Pegasus 39 is a reliable trainer designed for extended distances, and it is slightly more responsive so you can speed up if needed.

The model also has a curved heel that doesn’t impede forefoot strikers, and the additional foam makes even the backfoot landings smooth. 

4) Walking:

Unlike other brands, Nike still mostly used rubber on the outsoles of shoes to make them lighter, and the Pegasus 37 and 39 are no different.

Pegasus 37 has long strips of rubber on the outer edge where they tend to wear out the most, and symmetrical lugs to give a better grip when you push off. As the traction is better, walking on wet or dry surfaces in these will be easier. 

On the other hand, the Pegasus 39 has denser foam soles, carbon rubber, and polyurethane insole which provide maximum support and make long distances walking a more pleasurable experience. So, either one of these two pairs will be a better bet for walking.

5) Flat feet:

Those with flat feet should choose the Pegasus 39 instead of the Pegasus 37 due to its robust construction and wider forefoot region. 

Also, the Pegasus 39 has a thicker air unit in the whole length of the shoes which minimizes the impact of each step. Also, the double-layered sleeved upper stabilizes the flat feet and ensures that it remains aligned without altering the natural gait

6) Design:

The Nike Pegasus 37 is a blend between a light racing shoe and a comfortable trainer that can be worn all day.

This model stands out from the others for its gender-specific Zoom Air units. In addition, its padding allows the foot to return to the heel cup without restriction, thereby providing adequate heel support.

Additionally, the mesh top on the Pegasus 37 is transparent, making the shoe more breathable. Its upper also has straps that take some of the pressure off the foot and fits snugly which gives you the confidence to run.

Furthermore, a runner’s feet bend at an angle, so the designers carved a deep groove in the forefoot rubber where the toes meet the rest of the foot to promote effortless motion.

Concisely, it’s a great all-around model that you may wear daily for any purpose, but we recommend it most for sprinting and mid-distance runs.

In contrast, the design changes of the Pegasus 39 start with the upper, where engineered mesh and Flywire lacing are intended to hug the foot in a supportive manner and are more adaptable for those who prefer a bit more freedom of movement.

Also, for the 39th iteration, the designers have doubled the number of Zoom Air cushioning pods that contribute to that “flying” sensation that most runners experience.

Further, these Zoom Air units are combined with the React foam to offer a steady, and seamless stride when running at a slower pace, however, it doesn’t disappoint you when you put it on speed and need to pump up the pace.

Its carbon rubber outsole is also durable enough to withstand regular pavement, treadmills, as well as lighter rocky terrain.

Pegasus 39, on the whole, is ideal for handling different running sessions, from a quick five-kilometer to more strenuous runs.

What do customers think?

Reviewers raved about the midsole’s ability of Pegasus 37 to provide a responsive, enjoyable ride that wouldn’t leave them fatigued after a long-running for hours.

Some runners have put these shoes through testing on a variety of surfaces, including dirt roads, rainy streets, and mud, and found that they performed exceptionally well in all cases. 

A few consumers believed the heel cup did a great job of holding their feet in position, while others felt this feature needs improvement as their feet roll inward.

When you’re not sure what kind of workout you’ll be doing, experts recommend keeping a pair of Nike Pegasus 37 in your gym bag and you’ll be set.

Runners have also emphasized that this particular shoe design is neutral, so those whose feet require additional support and control of motion should search for something else.

Also, a few complained about the base of the shoe as it isn’t very wide, and the middle of the foot is less flexible for different types of feet.

Alternatively, the vast majority of reviewers agree that the Nike Pegasus 39 is quite durable and may last for hundreds of miles.

People also agree that the model’s longevity and reliability outweigh its aesthetic appeal.

Also, those who wear these running shoes regularly attest that the padded top keeps them from getting blisters.

The Pegasus 39, according to many reviewers, comes in at the perfect length and width, making them versatile for casual use as well.

Overall the model has earned a lot of praise, and after seeing those comments, you probably agree that it is the perfect all-rounder.

However, there are mixed reviews about breathability; some people face sweat issues and less airflow during high temperatures.

Conclusion: Which Is Better?

In the end, if you’re searching for a neutral daily trainer that’s up to the task of short or medium runs, and tempo workouts, one of the considerable options is the Pegasus 37. However, for different foot shapes, it may feel restrictive, you should know that it stretches over time and will slowly break in.

Conversely, the improvements and new features found in the Pegasus 39 make them an excellent investment.

This everyday trainer is adaptable, more responsive, and faster than its previous versions as it has an updated midsole.

Even though it still does not meet the criteria for a speed shoe but it’s the one shoe style you can wear for all of your runs including long distances.

From our perspective, when shopping for new footwear, buying the latest version of sneakers is a savvy option, so Pegasus 39 is recommended.

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