Nike
ACG Zegama Trail
Product Judgment
Strong
8.1
Category: Technical Trail
Release year: 2026
Evidence base: Extensive
Reviewers agree on stability, comfort, and traction; fit opinions vary slightly.
Price Judgment
Reasonable
Common retail price: ~$170
Availability: Widely Available
Based on manual research as of Sep 28, 2026
Description
Max-cushioned technical trail shoe in Nike's ACG line. Designed for long distances and varied terrain. Praised for stability, comfort, and traction, with notable improvements over prior versions.
Firm yet plush ride balances cushioning with a stable, wide platform. Vibram outsole delivers secure grip on technical surfaces. Roomy fit and effective debris collar enhance comfort, though weight and lockdown require adjustment.
Ideal for long trail runs, technical descents, and mixed terrain where stability and comfort are priorities. Best for runners seeking a secure, protective ride over lightweight agility. Remains a versatile option for those valuing plush cushioning and reliable grip.
Performance Scores
Comfort
8Plush ZoomX layer and roomy fit provide high comfort for long runs.
Energy Return
7Firm yet smooth ride delivers moderate energy return for a max-cushioned trail shoe.
Stability
9Wide platform and secure base offer outstanding stability on technical terrain.
Durability
7Cushlon foam and Vibram outsole are robust, but open mesh may limit upper longevity.
Grip
8Vibram Megagrip outsole provides excellent traction on varied surfaces.
Run Fitness
Daily
8Comfortable cushioning and stable ride suit daily trail mileage.
Long
9Supportive platform and plush foam excel on long-distance trail efforts.
Light Trail
7Performs well but weight and protection are more than needed for easy trails.
Technical Trail
8Stable and grippy, though underfoot protection is moderate for sharp rocks.
Door to Trail
7Smooth ride and traction work on mixed surfaces, but weight is noticeable on road.
Pros & Cons
- Outstanding stability
- Excellent traction
- Comfortable cushioning
- Roomy toe box
- Heavy for category
- Requires tight lacing
- Moderate underfoot protection
Wide platform and secure base deliver outstanding stability on technical descents.
Vibram Megagrip outsole ensures excellent traction across mud, scree, and roots.
Dual-layer midsole with ZoomX provides firm but comfortable cushioning for long runs.
Redesigned upper offers a roomy toe box and effective debris protection.
Relatively heavy build makes the shoe less agile and noticeable on longer climbs.
Achieving proper lockdown requires very tight lacing, which can feel uncomfortable.
Absence of a rock plate means sharp rocks can be felt on highly technical terrain.
Specifications
Best for paces
6:00–8:30 min/km
Drop
4 mm
Stack height
36 mm heel / 32 mm forefoot
Weight
338 g (Men's US 10)
Drop
4 mm
Stack height
36 mm heel / 32 mm forefoot
Weight
338 g (Men's US 10)
Pronation
Neutral
Width
wide
Terrain
Technical Trail
Technologies
ZoomX foam, Cushlon 3.0 foam, Vibram Megagrip outsole
Plate
no
Best for paces
6:00–8:30 min/km
Comparable Models
Nike ACG Pegasus Trail prioritizes comfortable pavement-to-trail transitions, while ACG Zegama focuses on technical grip and a heavier, protected trail platform.
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Nike ACG Ultrafly Trail adds lively plated propulsion for predictable terrain, while ACG Zegama emphasizes technical traction but also demands careful lockdown.
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Hoka Speedgoat 7 combines protective cushioning with responsive technical handling, addressing the ACG Zegama's heavy climbing feel without adding a rock plate.
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Topo Traverse 2 supplies a forefoot rock plate and durable hiking structure, addressing the ACG Zegama's sharp-rock sensitivity while sacrificing running agility.
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Salomon Genesis 2 emphasizes firm ground feel and secure technical control, while ACG Zegama provides a roomier, more cushioned ride with greater bulk.
View details