Looking for alternatives to the Nike Pegasus 40? Here are 5 shoes of similar performance and price

Gorka Cabañas
Journalist and RUNNEA content director
Posted on 05-09-2023

To talk about Nike Pegasus is to talk about possibly the most iconic shoe in the history of recreational running. Launched in 1983, the Pegasus has become a model you can't go wrong with, offering a combination of comfort, durability and performance at an almost unbeatable price.

Competing with a model that has been on the market for 40 years is not easy, but at RUNNEA we are going to help you find 5 alternatives to the Nike Pegasus 40 in case you feel like trying a different shoe with the same features. And of course, always at a very reasonable price.

HOKA Rincon 3

The Rincon 3 is an update of one of Hoka's fastest and most versatile models. This shoe is designed for quality workouts, such as sets, tempo changes, fartlek and hill training, as well as racing in distances up to half marathons. The update of the third edition did not bring many new features compared to the previous version, Rincon 2, but work has been done to further reduce its weight to gain in dynamism. The midsole cuts have also been adapted to achieve a faster transition in the stride cycle.

Its single-layer mesh upper offers breathability, while the EVA midsole provides a smooth ride without adding weight. In addition, this model features early-stage Meta-Rocker geometry for a smooth heel-to-toe transition.

What type of runners is it ideal for?

The HOKA Rincon 3 is ideal for runners with good running technique who land on their midfoot or forefoot and are looking for a fast, yet comfortable and well-cushioned shoe. It is especially recommended for runners weighing no more than 75-78 kg.

Main features:

  • Weight: Approximately 210 grams in size 9 USA (8 UK) for men.
  • Drop: 5 mm.
  • Cushioning: Neutral, with a focus on lightness and reactivity.
  • Surface: Asphalt and running tracks.
  • Recommended use: Quality training and short to medium-distance racing.
  • Pace: 3:45 min/km and up.

Outstanding technologies:

  • Compressed EVA midsole: Offers lightweight, durable cushioning.
  • Engineered mesh upper: For optimal breathability and fit.
  • Early-phase Meta-Rocker: Designed to provide smooth transition and efficient propulsion.
  • High-abrasion rubber outsole: Strategically placed in high-wear areas for increased durability.
  • Thin, padded tongue: Enhances comfort without adding unnecessary weight.

Why choose the Hoka Rincon 3: If you're looking for a shoe that combines efficient cushioning with lightweight construction, the Rincon 3 is an excellent choice. Its compressed EVA midsole and Meta-Rocker technology work together to deliver a smooth, responsive running experience, while its engineered mesh design ensures a comfortable, breathable fit.

New Balance FuelCell Rebel v3

The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v3 is the third iteration of a model that has quickly gained popularity in the world of running shoes. Designed for runners looking for a lightweight yet responsive cushioning shoe, this shoe is an excellent choice for quality training and short to medium-distance competitions.

What type of runners is it ideal for?

These New Balance running shoes are perfect for neutral runners looking for a versatile shoe, suitable for both fast workouts and competitions. They are especially recommended for athletes who weigh less than 80 kg and have a good running technique.

Main features:

  • Weight: 238 grams in size 9 US (8 UK) for men.
  • Drop: 6 mm.
  • Cushioning: Neutral with focus on reactivity.
  • Surface: Asphalt and running tracks.
  • Recommended use: Quality training and racing up to half marathon.
  • Pace: 3:45 min/km or slower paces.

Outstanding technologies:

  • FuelCell Foam: Offers lightweight, responsive cushioning.
  • Technical mesh upper: For enhanced breathability and fit.
  • Blown rubber outsole: For durability and grip on a variety of surfaces.

Why choose the New Balance FuelCell Rebel V3: If you're looking for a shoe that combines lightness, responsiveness and comfort, the FuelCell Rebel V3 is an excellent choice. Its FuelCell technology in the midsole provides an agile and fast running feel, while its technical mesh design ensures a comfortable and breathable fit.

Mizuno Wave Skyrise 4

The Mizuno Wave Skyrise 4 is a running shoe designed for runners looking for a balanced combination of cushioning, lightness and running comfort. This shoe is ideal for medium to long-distance training, as well as for runners looking for a versatile option for different types of terrain. It's the most comfortable model out of the 5, but also the slowest.

Who is the Mizuno Wave Skyrise 4 ideal for?

These Mizuno shoes are especially suitable for neutral-gait runners looking for a versatile and comfortable shoe for medium and long-distance training. Their balanced design makes them an excellent choice for both experienced runners and those who are taking their first steps in the world of running.

Main features:

  • Weight: Approximately 260 grams in size 9 US (8 UK) for men.
  • Drop: 10 mm.
  • Cushioning: Neutral, with a focus on comfort and running comfort.
  • Surface: Asphalt and running tracks.
  • Recommended use: Medium and long-distance training.
  • Pace: 4:15 min/km and up.

Outstanding technologies:

  • Wave Technology: Provides optimal cushioning and stability through a corrugated plate in the midsole.
  • Midsole with Mizuno Enerzy and Mizuno Enerzy Core: Material that provides a great feeling of comfort and stability.
  • Airmesh upper: For superior breathability and fit.
  • X10 carbon rubber outsole: Improves traction and durability in high-impact areas.
  • U4icX in the heel: Material that offers additional cushioning and increased shock absorption.

Why choose the Mizuno Wave Skyrise 4: The Mizuno Wave Skyrise 4 is an excellent choice for runners looking for a versatile and durable shoe. The Wave technology and the combination of 2 foams in the midsole work together to offer great cushioning and stability on the run, making it an ideal choice for medium to long distance training. In addition, the new mesh design and X10 carbon rubber outsole ensure a comfortable fit and extended durability. Ideal for heel strikers.

Joma R2000

-38%

Original price £89

From £54.77

Joma R2000

View all men's prices

The Joma R2000 is a running shoe that stands out for its versatility and multifunctionality. Designed for fast runners, this shoe offers excellent value for money. Its design focuses on lightness, breathability, and a high-quality fit and support. Although It doesn't feature a carbon plate, it is ideal for fast-paced training and medium to long-distance racing.

What type of runners is the Joma R2000 ideal for?

These Joma running shoes areideal for male and female runners who can maintain paces of less than 4:30 minutes/km and who are light to medium-weight. They are suitable for training as well as for medium and long-distance competitions.

Main features:

  • Weight: 260 grams (men's version).
  • Drop: 10 mm.
  • Cushioning: Neutral, with a focus on comfort.
  • Surface: Asphalt and running tracks.
  • Recommended use: Medium and long-distance training.
  • Pace: From 4:15 min/km and up.

Outstanding technologies:

  • Breathable upper: Made with VTS technology, it allows good ventilation.
  • Support and fit: Incorporates different systems such as JOMA SPORTECH for optimal fit.
  • Lightweight midsole: Uses FULL DUAL PULSOR technology and FLY REACTIVE foam composed of different density materials.
  • Energy Return: Optimises reactivity and momentum in each stride.
  • Durable outsole: Made of DURABILITY rubber, it offers resistance and durability.

Why choose the Joma R2000: If you're a runner who values versatility, comfort and responsiveness in a shoe, the Joma R2000 is an option you can't pass up. Here's a tip: If you prefer shoes with a higher drop, the Joma R2000 is ideal for you. Its design favours runners who use the heel more in the stride.

Kiprun KD900

The Kiprun KD900 is a running shoe developed by Decathlon that stands out for its great cushioning and lightness. They are designed for fast runners looking for a dynamic and reactive shoe. The midsole of the shoe features a foam developed in collaboration with Arkema, a French company that is a benchmark in the development of materials for the running market. This foam, called VFOA from Pebax material, is 20% more dynamic than conventional foams. In addition, the geometry of the sole is designed to offer excellent grip on wet ground and in curves, even at high speeds.

What type of runners is the Kiprun KD900 ideal for?

The Kiprun KD900 running shoes are intended for runners with a neutral stride who weigh up to 80 kg. They are ideal for those who are looking to run at a fast pace on asphalt, but also for changes of pace, sets or runs at race pace. These shoes will perform well over distances ranging from 10 km to marathon.

Main features:

  • Weight: 218 grams in the men's version and 185 grams in the women's version.
  • Drop: 8 mm.
  • Cushioning: Pebax foam by Arkema.
  • Recommended use: Asphalt and running tracks.
  • Distances: From 10 km to marathon.

Outstanding technologies:

  • Arkema Pebax foam: This advanced foam technology provides exceptional cushioning and increased reactivity with every stride. It is 20% more dynamic than conventional foams.
  • K-Ring outsole: The outsole features a K-Ring design, which offers excellent shock absorption and improved pressure distribution on the foot during running.
  • Breathable mesh upper: The upper is made of a lightweight, breathable mesh that allows for excellent ventilation, keeping your feet cool throughout the run.
  • Up'bar system: Incorporates a TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) insert in the midsole to improve propulsion (the shoe's ability to propel you forward).
  • Insole technology: The insole is designed with memory foam that adapts to the shape of your foot, offering a personalised fit and enhanced comfort.
  • Grip outsole design: The outsole geometry is designed to offer excellent traction in wet conditions and cornering, which is especially useful for runners looking for performance in varied conditions.

Why choose the Kiprun KD900: If you are looking for a shoe that combines technological innovation, comfort and performance for less than 110 GBP, the Kiprun KD900 is an excellent choice. It has excellent grip on wet asphalt.

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