No matter how sneaker brands may portray it otherwise, actual technological innovation has slowed from the highs of the mid-2010s, when I spent a lot of time analyzing running shoes and developing technological foundations. Now, every so often, something comes along that is definitely a step forward in the truest sense. Achieving the 42nd generation of this classic sneaker is no easy feat, but the Nike Pegasus 42 is a more complete modernization of an established sneaker. Still, Nike hasn’t forgotten or ignored the basics of keeping things simple, as they have done with the Pegasus shoes over the years, and hence there is broad spectrum appeal across all age groups.
In India, the price of Pegasus 42 is ₹12,995 and that price tag advantage is just the beginning of its claim to supremacy over the Adidas Supernova Rise 3 (which is priced at ₹14,999; Here’s an analysis of the previous generation). Nike has reworked the Pegasus 42 silhouette, and it’s definitely more modern looking – with a more pronounced rocker aspect, which I’ll get to in a moment. A little edgy, if you like, which is a big change in itself for the otherwise vision-controlled Pegasus series. The Volt Tint/Sapphire/Lime Blast/Black Spruce colorway offers a particularly youthful look, something you would otherwise expect to see from more expensive sneakers. Add this new design language to the price tag benefits, and you can see how the comparison framework is shaping up.
Three main generational upgrades define the Nike Pegasus 42. First, Nike’s Air Zoom technology unit is now full length, whereas previous generations had separate forefoot and heel units. The immediate positive, and this is very noticeable, is an even greater return of energy which is going to help propel a runner forward. The Air Zoom unit is paired with ReactX midsole foam, which is generationally denser and appears to have the perfect blend of soft and bouncy feeling on both hard and soft running surfaces. Adidas’ DreamStrike+ foam is still on a journey to find that balance, with this generation of the Supernova also removing the EVA support soles to reduce stiffness underfoot.
Secondly, the combination of these two midsole technologies is aided by an improved design change that makes a pronounced change in the curve of the toe box – read on, it’s more now. Rocker shoes are smooth because of the transition of the foot from heel to toe when you run. As well as this, Nike has also widened the toe box for a bit more foot room – good news for those who don’t normally like the narrow front shoe design. With the mesh upper being breathable, and the summer months being a good time to assess this, the Pegasus 42 prioritizes comfort.
For running, I prefer the 10mm offset (that’s the difference in height from heel to toe) of the Nike Pegasus 42, over the 8mm of the latest iteration of the Supernova – think of it as the philosophy that it reduces the strain on the Achilles tendon and calf muscles, and it also means there’s a little more cushioning in some part under the heel and up to the midfoot. Which allows for better shock absorption. If you regularly run on hard surfaces like roads or sidewalks, this matters. The argument could be made that ReactX has been around for a while and Nike needed something new, but why fix what isn’t broken?
Third, a new outsole composition which Nike claims will help with longer lasting performance as well as better grip. I can testify to the latter, there is definitely better traction with the waffle design outsole which is now made of high friction rubber and integrates flex grooves. The outsole of the Adidas Supernova Rise 3, when you turn the shoe over, appears to have a lot less depth and attention to detail than you’ll see on most lower priced shoes.
Think of the Pegasus 42 as a shoe that hides its true capabilities until someone really nails it. It’s an easy runner, works perfectly for long walks or jogging, and when you feel the need to increase the speed, it actually finds a ‘Sport’ mode out of nowhere. While the latest generation Supernova may have lighter weight numbers on the comparative spec sheet, the Pegasus 42 feels well balanced and very nimble.
As it all stacks up, the Nike Pegasus 42 is a jack of all trades that can be whatever you want it to be – a fast runner, comfortable long walk shoe or a weekend style statement. The Air Zoom unit upgrade has made a huge difference in my book, along with all the changes it has made to define better propulsion. At a much lower price than top-tier runners, the Pegasus 42 feels closer to them than previous generations. And this is instant competition.